Join Molly and Julian as they explore Antarctica, learning about ice sheets, volcanoes, and unique creatures like the Antarctic Midges. Scientist Dr. Jennifer Mercer shares insights on living and working in Antarctica, including its ancient tropical past. Discover the importance of preserving Antarctica's ecosystem amidst climate change challenges.
Antarctica was once a tropical paradise 90 million years ago with palm trees and ferns.
The Antarctic Midge, a unique insect, demonstrates incredible survival abilities in extreme cold temperatures.
Deep dives
Antarctica: A Continent of Extremes
Antarctica, a land of super thick ice sheets, active volcanoes, and extreme cold temperatures, is home to various creatures like penguins, leopard seals, and a unique insect called the Antarctic Midge. This vast continent, experiencing rapid ice melt due to climate change, was once a warm tropical paradise with palm trees and ferns about 90 million years ago.
Life in Antarctica: Tough and Adaptable
Despite its harsh conditions, Antarctica hosts a variety of life forms that have adapted to survive in this challenging environment. Along the coast, temperatures milder than the interior support different plant species like moss, algae, and lichen. Marine life including penguins, whales, krill, and leopard seals thrives in the frigid waters. The Antarctic Midge, a remarkable tiny flightless fly, demonstrates incredible survival abilities, enduring extreme cold temperatures and extended periods of frozen conditions.
Impacts of Climate Change on Antarctica
Antarctica, facing the effects of climate change, is witnessing significant ice melting, contributing to rising sea levels. Human activities have accelerated global warming, leading to drastic environmental changes in this icy continent. Scientists are studying the shifts in Antarctica's ecosystem and emphasizing the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to preserve its unique habitat and biodiversity.
Looking for an escape? Join Molly and co-host Julian as they explore Antarctica! They’ll learn about Antarctica’s massive ice sheets and active volcanoes — plus they’ll meet the largest land animal on the continent! (Hint: it’s black, shiny, and can perch on a pencil eraser!)
Then they’ll chat with scientist Dr. Jennifer Mercer about what it’s like to live and work in one the coldest places on the planet and explore what Antarctica was like 90 million years ago. (Hint: It was a lot like a beach resort!) And stick around for a mystery sound that’s so cool it’ll give you goosebumps!
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