Antarctic Krill

This species is part of the Blue Biome marine biodiversity dataset.

This species is part of the Blue Biome marine biodiversity dataset.

This species is part of the Blue Biome marine biodiversity dataset.

This species is part of the Blue Biome marine biodiversity dataset.

This species is part of the Blue Biome marine biodiversity dataset.

The Scotia Sea lies between South America and Antarctica. Icy winds and drifting ice stir its waters. Long, dark winters are followed by short summers with huge plankton blooms. It is one of the most productive but also toughest seas for life.

The Southern Ocean circles Antarctica with fierce winds, giant waves, and winter sea ice that doubles the continent’s size. It is full of life, with tiny shrimp-like krill feeding penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds. Its waters are linked by the strong Antarctic Circumpolar Current, a huge river of water moving around the globe. This ocean also stores carbon and helps regulate Earth’s climate.