The ecological implications of a changing climate consequent to sea ice dynamics

Abstract

The literature encompassing climate change and its effects is relatively broad, however, it sparks dire concern with respect to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean ecosystem. Specifically, this review aims to highlight three key processes negatively influenced by a changing climate in the Antarctic region.

Firstly, sea ice dynamics and its seasonality plays a primary role in Southern Ocean functionality. Its extent, advance and retreat has been modified by our changing climate. Subsequently, this has had an effect on other processes like the biogeochemistry of our oceans controlled by the biological carbon pump. Moreover, it has had ecological implications on the Antarctic food web and trophodynamics. This review further delves into the significance of sea ice microbial communities, krill and the future of primary productivity in the Southern Ocean.