Antarctica is rapidly losing ice due to climate change, but a new study revealed an unexpected ally in the struggle for its cooling - penguins. Their litter contains ammonia, which promotes the formation of clouds, and they protect the icy continent from solar heat.
According to a study published in Communications Earth & Environment, a team of scientists from Helsinki University found that penguins, including adella colonies, contribute to the formation of clouds over Antarctica. Their litter secretes ammonia, which in combination with the gases of phytoplankton forms aerosols - the basis of cloud cover. During the summer season, Antarctica Ammonia of Gano Penguins reaches a concentration of 13.5 parts per billion - almost 1000 times higher than the usual level. Clouds that result from this process reflect sunlight and lower the temperature. This effect was first recorded at the Argentine Station of Marambio, near the Antarctic Peninsula. In addition to penguins, other marine birds - such as imperial cormoras. But penguins in large numbers and at the key point contribute to the formation of clouds that can slow down the melting of glaciers. The reduction of sea ice jeopardizes the existence of penguins, and with them - this natural cooling mechanism. The loss of colonies can lead to even more heating of the continent by reducing the cloud cover. If Antarctica loses an icy shield, it can activate more than 130 hidden volcanoes, which can have catastrophic consequences not only for the region but for the whole world.
Scientists say that further studies are required to accurately understand the effects of penguins on the climate. But now the discovery shows how important even the smallest participants in the ecosystem to restrain global warming.
