Climate change is turning parts of Antarctica green, say scientists | World news | The Guardian

Climate change is turning parts of Antarctica green, say scientists | World news | The Guardian

Climate change is turning Antarctica green

Scientists have used satellite data to produce the first large-scale maps of microscopic algae growing in coastal Antarctica, where large blooms are creating patches of ‘green snow’. Their observations will be used to assess the speed at which the continent is turning green because of climate change; warmer temperatures create more of the slushy conditions the algae need to thrive. The blooms could even create a source of food for other species. “This could potentially form new habitats. It’s the beginning of a new ecosystem,” says biologist Matt Davey, who co-led the study.

The Guardian | 5 min read