Science
CROSS-SPECTRUM
Antarctic penguin guano fuels rapid growth of green snow algae
Rising temperatures are expanding green snow algae along Antarctica's coasts, and penguin guano is accelerating their spread.
As the continent warms, habitats for green snow algae are extending farther along the shoreline. The algae absorb more solar energy than clean snow, speeding melt rates. Researchers note that penguin droppings act as fertilizer, boosting these dense algal blooms. If penguins move closer to the South Pole due to habitat changes, they could fertilize new areas, a factor not previously included in melt forecasts.
Why it matters
Penguin-driven algal growth may speed Antarctic ice melt, affecting global sea levels.
In this story
green snow algaepenguin guanoAntarctic meltclimate warmingcryosphere biogeochemistry
