Antarctic moss thrives on ancient penguin poo
Moss beds near Casey station are being nourished by nitrogen from ancient penguin poo. (Photo: Sharon Robinson)
6th July 2012
Luxuriant moss beds growing near Casey station in Antarctica are being nourished by the remains of an ancient Adelie penguin colony.
Australian scientists have found fossil evidence of the colony as well as pebbles from the penguins’ nests and the fertilizing nutrient, nitrogen, with a distinct ‘seabird signature’ originating from penguin poo.
The nitrogen is now feeding the moss beds after being locked in the frozen soil for up to 8000 years.
More information
- BBC story
