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Antarctic Krill

Antarctic krill may be small, but they are mighty in numbers! Their swarms can extend for tens of kilometers (or multiple miles). 

 

Antarctic krill can be found swimming in swarms exclusively in the Southern Ocean and are known to congregate in large numbers around the Antarctic peninsula and other islands. These crustaceans have a unique relationship with sea ice, as the underside of sea ice serves as a nursery for krill larvae and a grounding point for their main food source, algae. Adult Antarctic krill, on the other hand, primarily eat phytoplankton. 

 Even though they only grow to 6 centimeters (2.3 inches) in length, these crustaceans serve as an important key indicator species for the health of Antarctica’s ocean ecosystem. This is due to their high sensitivity to environmental changes, high level of abundance, and crucial role as the primary food source for many Antarctic animals.  As the base of the Antarctic food web, if krill decrease in numbers, so will the penguins, whales, seals, and other animals reliant on them for nourishment.   

 

 

The primary threat to Antarctic krill is climate change, as the loss of sea ice can negatively impact their ability to reproduce. Without sea ice, krill lose the ice they depend on for their nursery grounds and the food they depend on to grow and reproduce can be limited.  The industrial krill fishing is also popular for human supplements, aquaculture, and pet food. Fortunately, it is listed as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. 

 

 

Putting an end to overfishing and reducing our reliance on crude oil is necessary to protect Antarctic krill. Oceana campaigns to reduce overfishing and safeguard vital ocean habitats globally.  

 

 

Animal Diversity Web

IUCN Red List

Q&A with Dr. Heather Lynch

 

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