Emperor Penguins Face “Quasi Extinction”
A recent study conducted by researchers from the British Antarctic Survey reveals that emperor penguins, the iconic symbol of Antarctica, are facing a grave threat of “quasi extinction” due to a rapid reduction in sea ice. The study found that colonies of emperor penguins failed to breed at an unprecedented level, with satellite imagery indicating that penguin chicks likely did not survive.
The study predicts that if current global warming trends continue, 90% of emperor penguins could be “quasi extinct” by the end of the century. Emperor penguins rely entirely on stable sea ice for breeding and nurturing their young. The shrinking sea ice caused early abandonment of breeding sites, preventing chicks from developing waterproof feathers. The study warns that drastic climate changes are causing the loss of vital breeding grounds for these penguins, contributing to their decline.
Why are emperor penguins facing a risk of “quasi extinction” according to the study?
The study suggests that the abrupt reduction in sea ice, which emperor penguins depend on for breeding and raising their young, has led to failed breeding attempts and a decline in penguin populations.
What does the study predict about the fate of emperor penguins by the end of the century?
The study predicts that 90% of emperor penguins could be “quasi extinct” by the end of the century if global warming trends continue as they are.
How are emperor penguins dependent on sea ice for breeding and raising their young?
Emperor penguins need stable sea ice attached to the shore for breeding and nurturing their young. They lay eggs in the Antarctic winter and raise their chicks on the ice until it melts in the summer.
What impact does the early abandonment of breeding sites due to shrinking sea ice have on penguin chicks?
Penguin chicks require stable sea ice for protection and development. Early abandonment of breeding sites prevents chicks from developing waterproof feathers, likely leading to their mortality.
What is the significance of the “Six Sigma event” in the context of Antarctic ice?
The term “Six Sigma event” refers to an extreme deviation from the norm, occurring once in 7.5 million years. This has been used to describe the unprecedented struggle of Antarctic ice to regrow after hitting an all-time low, reflecting the severity of climate change impacts.
What other major concern is associated with the melting of Arctic ice?
Scientists project that Arctic summers could become ice-free as soon as the 2030s due to ongoing melting and shrinking of Arctic ice.
How is the loss of sea ice affecting emperor penguin breeding sites?
Loss of sea ice due to global warming has led to the abandonment of emperor penguin breeding sites, preventing proper breeding and chick development.
Why is the decline of emperor penguins significant in the context of Antarctica’s ecosystem?
Emperor penguins are a vital part of the Antarctic ecosystem, and their decline could disrupt the balance of the food chain and impact other species in the region.
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Month: Current Affairs - August, 2023
Category: Environment Current Affairs