Climate crisis: Antarctic life

Antarctic animals have evolved to thrive in a cold, polar climate.

Their unique adaptations make them highly sensitive to change.

The climate crisis is having a range of impacts on the Antarctic environment, putting pressure on ecosystems to adapt to a rapidly changing world.

Read on to learn more.

CLIMATE CRISIS: ANTARCTIC LIFE

Changing Antarctica

Follow the links below to find out how changes in sea ice, ocean temperatures and weather are affecting life in Antarctica.

emperors on sea ice
Sea Ice

Sea ice is a vital habitat for Antarctic life. Warmer temperatures and dramatic decreases in the extent and duration of sea ice cover are affecting ecosystems, from Antarctic krill to emperor penguins.

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King penguin diving
Ocean

Rising sea temperatures, changing ocean chemistry and declining winter sea ice are causing a cascade of changes in marine ecosystems around the Antarctic Peninsula.

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Lush moss beds on the Antarctic Peninsula.
Land

Parts of Antarctica are becoming warmer and drier, putting pressure on delicately balanced ecosystems to adapt to rapidly changing conditions.

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tabular iceberg and brash ice
Tabular iceberg and brash ice

You can help

CLIMATE CRISIS: CHANGING ANTARCTICA

ASOC has been working to protect Antarctic ecosystems for over 40 years. 

Join us today as we continue to lead the international conservation community in this important work.

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Discover how the global conservation community is working to protect Antarctic ecosystems threatened by the climate crisis.

Climate crisis: Antarctic life

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emperor penguin
Emperor penguin
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