Arctic Ecosystems

Scientists seek to understand effects of rain falling on snow in the Arctic

Video and audio monitoring of the Arctic seafloor captures rarely seen phenomena: fish swimming backwards, narwhal calls nearby, and a beautiful array of deep-sea dwellers and tide-driven "marine snow”

Researchers used seafloor video and audio monitoring to capture rare phenomena in a Greenlandic glacial fjord, including fish swimming backwards and making sudden appearances of deep-sea dwellers. The study also revealed the presence of narwhals near the surface, providing new insights into the Arctic ecosystem.

Beavers leave a trail as they head into the Arctic

Researchers use tree rings and satellites to date changes beavers make to the tundra landscape as they spread northwards. The study provides evidence of beaver colonization in the region starting in 2008, with satellite analysis revealing a significant expansion of surface water between 2015 and 2019.

Arctic oil and gas exploitation significantly overlaps with Indigenous Peoples’ Lands, ecologically sensitive areas and key Arctic species’ ranges

A new atlas reveals significant overlaps between Arctic oil and gas development and Indigenous Peoples' Lands, ecologically sensitive areas, and key Arctic species. The study highlights potential ecological disruption and social tension in heavily-exploited regions.

High levels of forever chemicals in Svalbard reindeer

Researchers have discovered high levels of forever chemicals like PFAS in Svalbard reindeer, while toxic metals such as cadmium and lead have shown a decrease. The study suggests that PFAS levels have skyrocketed over the past decade, with implications for human consumption of the animals.

March research news from the Ecological Society of America

Recent ESA research studies explore supply and demand of bird migration routes, scavenging by mid-sized carnivores, and polar bear adaptation to a thawing Arctic. A new metric compares bird demand with habitat supply to assess stopover sites along migratory routes.

The polar bear ‘umbrella’: How protecting one species saves many

A new study reveals that protecting polar bear habitat naturally safeguards the resources they rely on to survive, providing critical benefits to the ecosystem. By analyzing tracking data from 355 bears, researchers identified a high-use area near Cape Churchill, Manitoba, highlighting it as a prime location for a Marine Protected Area.

Past intensive whaling threatens the future of bowhead whales

Researchers analyzed 11,000-year-old bowhead whale fossils to reveal the devastating impact of commercial whaling on the species' genetics. The study found that genetic diversity will continue to decline, severely impacting the species' resilience to climate change.

What freezing plants in blocks of ice can tell us about the future of Svalbard’s plant communities

Svalbard's polar willow plant community, a critical food source for reindeer, was found to be resilient to icing due to consistent production above-ground during summer warming. The study suggests that even with extensive winter ice encasement, some plants can thrive through increased above-ground production and seed dispersal.

Study confirms Arctic peatlands are expanding

New research confirms Arctic peatlands are expanding due to rising temperatures, with some areas growing by over a metre a year. The expansion is likely to store more carbon, which could help slow climate change.

Thousands of alien species could invade the Arctic

Researchers have catalogued 2554 non-native plant species that may pose a threat to Arctic biodiversity. The study used data from over 51 million occurrences of these species to create a map highlighting hotspot areas in the region.

Arctic seas are getting louder as ice melts, posing risks – study shows how to better measure noise

The Arctic is experiencing a rise in human-generated underwater noise due to melting ice and increased activity, disrupting wildlife and local communities. A new study from the University of Bath provides a clear framework for monitoring noise in Arctic waters, urging authorities to revise thresholds used to assess noise levels.

Strategic sex: Alaska’s beluga whales swap mates for long-term survival

A new study reveals how beluga whales in Alaska's Bristol Bay survive through a surprising strategy: they mate with multiple partners over several years. This polygynandrous system helps maintain genetic diversity despite the population's small size and isolation.

Recent tundra fires ‘exceed anything in past 3,000 years’

Wildfires on Alaska's North Slope have reached unprecedented levels in recent centuries, driven by drying soils and expanding woody shrubs. The study's findings suggest a rapid transformation of the tundra ecosystem, with modern-day fires burning hotter and consuming more fuel.

Polar bears may be adapting to survive warmer climates, says study

A new study found that rising temperatures are driving changes in polar bear DNA, which may help them adapt to increasingly challenging environments. The researchers discovered that genes related to heat-stress, aging, and metabolism are behaving differently in polar bears living in southeastern Greenland.

Research news from the Ecological Society of America

Recent research articles explore innovative methods for rehabilitating coral reefs, new observations of masquerading behavior in deep-sea squids, the rapid expansion of Sphagnum peat patches across Alaska's North Slope, trade-offs between protected areas and sustainable development goals, and a surprising first-time observation of moth...

The Mohn Prize for 2026 awarded to Canadian John Smol

Professor John Smol of Queen's University is being honored for his groundbreaking contributions to identifying stressors of environmental change in the Arctic. He has developed tools for detecting environmental shifts in freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems, providing key insights into the impact of global warming and human activities.

Research news from the Ecological Society of America’s journals

Research from ESA's journals reveals that tiger populations are limited by prey scarcity, not protection. Invasive grasses also boost tick survival in Florida's longleaf pine forests.

A significant amount of dissolved organic carbon in the Arctic Ocean comes from land

A new study reveals that 16% of the Arctic Ocean's dissolved organic carbon comes from land, primarily from thawing permafrost and coastal erosion. This finding has significant implications for understanding how terrestrial organic matter affects Arctic marine ecosystems and the ocean's ability to store CO2.

Underwater robot ‘Lassie’ discovers remarkable icefish nests during search for Shackleton’s lost ship off Antarctica

A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) in the Western Weddell Sea uncovered extensive maintained fish nesting grounds, revealing patterns and organization, which are thought to be a survival strategy. The discovery provides critical insights into Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems and their importance for biodiversity.

Polar bears act as crucial providers for Arctic species

A new study reveals that polar bears act as crucial providers for Arctic species, leaving behind millions of kilograms of prey annually. This carrion provides a vital energy source for a wide network of arctic scavenger species, including Arctic foxes and ravens.

Study reveals crowberry expansion and bilberry decline in Arctic tundra

A recent study by University of Oulu researchers reveals significant shifts in Arctic tundra vegetation, with crowberry expansion and bilberry decline dominating the region. This long-term trend is likely linked to climate change and extensive reindeer grazing, which suppresses taller shrub growth.

Orange rivers signal toxic shift in Arctic wilderness

As Arctic permafrost thaws, geochemical reactions unleash metals like cadmium, harming fish and disrupting ecosystems. The Salmon River's transformation poses indirect threats to Indigenous communities and other species.

Northern losses and southern gains – climate change reshapes moth communities across Finland

A study found that Finnish moth communities are becoming increasingly dominated by warm-adapted species, while cold-adapted species in the north face rapid declines. This thermophilisation is driven by local disappearance of cold-adapted species, with southern Finland experiencing an influx of new warm-adapted species.

Arctic peatlands expanding as climate warms

Research finds Arctic peatlands expanding due to warming climate, with 16 sites showing strong evidence of expansion. Peatlands store about 600 billion tons of carbon, and their expansion could slow climate change but also poses risks if temperatures continue to rise.

MBARI research and technology play integral role in new Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences

International collaborations leveraging MBARI’s expertise and advanced technology better understand polar environments, including the Arctic seafloor and Southern Ocean. Researchers study seafloor processes, carbon and climate, and biodiversity in these regions.

Biodiversity in Antarctic soils may be greatly underestimated after surprising discovery

Researchers found a total of 2,829 genetically defined species, with bacteria richness being 10.3 times greater than eukaryotes. The study revealed previously unknown associations between bacteria and eukaryotes, suggesting novel mutualisms that may promote nutrient exchange.

The future of marine operations: Robots that organize themselves

The observation pyramid uses different robot platforms to survey ocean areas, enabling flexible task management. Autonomous robotic organizations will reduce costs, improve mission efficiency and increase system robustness.

Arctic rivers project receives “national champion” designation from frontiers foundation

The Arctic Great Rivers Observatory, a multinational project founded at the Marine Biological Laboratory, has been recognized as a National Champion by the Frontiers Planet Prize for its publication on recent trends in the chemistry of major northern rivers. This recognition highlights the value of sustained international collaboration...

‘Cryosphere meltdown’ will impact Arctic marine carbon cycles and ecosystems, new study warns

A new study found that climate change may undermine the capacity of Arctic fjords to serve as effective carbon sinks, leading to a decline in sequestration carbon. Rapid changes are transforming fjord ecosystems, with phytoplankton communities shifting due to melting ice and warmer waters.

Pioneering research reveals Arctic matter pathways poised for major shifts amidst climate change

A new study provides unprecedented light on the Transpolar Drift's transport system and factors controlling its dynamics. The findings indicate that warmer temperatures could increase the spread of human-made pollutants in the Arctic.

Revealing long-term changes in the marine environment and ecosystems of the Southern Ocean

A multidisciplinary survey in the eastern Indian sector of the Southern Ocean found that the southern boundary of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current has shifted southward, causing a change in water temperature and mac zooplankton composition. The survey also estimated the biomass of Antarctic krill in the area, with comparable results t...

Scientists blame climate change for spread of infectious diseases and unleashing of ice-locked microbes in Arctic

A recent study warns that climate change is creating new pathways for the spread of infectious diseases like brucellosis and E. coli in the Arctic, due to melting permafrost and increased human activity. The thawing of soil frozen for thousands of years could unlock dormant microbes with pandemic potential.

Developing a clearer understanding of permafrost thaw risk in Alaska

Researchers developed a method that uses high-resolution satellite imagery and deep machine learning to double the mapped infrastructure of Alaska, more accurately projecting economic risks associated with permafrost thaw. The new model nearly doubles the amount of information available for Alaska on OpenStreetMap.

SwRI receives $3 million NASA astrobiology grant to study microbial life in Alaska’s arctic sand dunes

The ARRAKIS project team aims to understand how microbial life thrives in extreme environments by studying the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes in Alaska. Researchers will use Raman spectroscopy and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry to identify and quantify organic compounds and measure ATP and total DNA.

The unforseen effects of melting glaciers on Arctic coastal ecosystems

Climate change impacts Arctic coastal ecosystems through melting glaciers, altering kelp growth and elemental composition. Kelps are highly susceptible to changes in run-off intensities, leading to increased metal concentrations and negative ecological consequences.

Researchers find more accurate way to track polar bears during their most secretive stage of life

A new study combines satellite collar data with specialized cameras to shed light on the mysterious and important stage of maternal denning. The researchers found that using both methods can accurately predict when polar bears will emerge from their dens and how external factors like temperature influence their behavior.

Drone captures narwhals using their tusks to explore, forage and play

Researchers capture narwhals using their tusks to investigate, manipulate and influence the behavior of Arctic char fish. The study reveals first evidence of likely play, social learning and personality differences among individual narwhal.

Polar bear cubs emerging from their dens for the first time: New study captures rare footage

A new study reveals detailed insights into polar bear denning behavior, showing altered emergence periods and variable den presence. The research highlights the importance of protecting denning areas to ensure cub survival and species conservation.

Study reveals palm trees once thrived in subarctic Canada

A new study by Connecticut College reveals that palm trees once thrived in subarctic Canada during the late early Eocene, approximately 48 million years ago. This finding indicates a warmer climate with ice-free winters, unlike previous assumptions.

‘Glacial fracking’: A hidden source of Arctic greenhouse gas emissions

Researchers discovered that Arctic glaciers are leaking significant amounts of methane through the 'glacial fracking' process. This previously unrecognised process could contribute to Arctic climate feedbacks and accelerate global warming.

Arctic cyclones could be missing link in sea ice depletion models

A new study published in Nature Communications Earth and Environment finds that Arctic cyclones may contribute to the underpredicted decline of sea ice extent. The research suggests two theories: turbulent seas breaking up larger ice floes and upwelling increasing temperatures that help melt younger, thinner ice.

FAU Engineering designs new autonomous system to monitor Arctic’s melting ice

The FAU-designed autonomous observation platform system offers a comprehensive approach to studying the Arctic environment and monitoring the impact of melting sea ice. The system integrates with the environment it monitors, providing new data on Arctic Sea ice melt beyond what satellites and manned ships can provide.

An Arctic 'beyond recognition' by 2100

A new review paper warns of the devastating impacts of a 2.7°C global warming on the Arctic region, including sea-ice-free summers, accelerated melting of glaciers, and widespread permafrost loss. The authors urge individuals to take responsibility for mitigating these changes.

Groundwater in the arctic is delivering more carbon into the ocean than was previously known

A small amount of Arctic groundwater releases an estimated 230 tons of organic carbon per day along Alaska's coastline, contributing to climate change and ocean acidification. This discovery highlights the significant role of freshwater discharge in the Arctic Ocean.

Underwater mud volcanos are a haven for marine organisms

Borealis Mud Volcano provides a hard substrate for various species like anemones and octocoral colonies, sustaining local fish populations. The volcano's carbonates also offer shelter and feeding opportunities.

After millennia as carbon dioxide sink, more than one-third of Arctic-boreal region is now a source

A new study found that 34% of the Arctic-boreal zone is now a source of carbon, with fires and microbial activity contributing to emissions. The research provides a comprehensive assessment of carbon fluxes in the region, highlighting the importance of monitoring these processes.

Guidance on animal-borne infections in the Canadian Arctic

The review highlights seven zoonotic infections in people, including those transmitted through traditional diets and hunting practices. Climate change is affecting the local ecosystem, altering animal behavior and parasite life cycles, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

Arctic hotspots study reveals areas of climate stress in Northern Alaska, Siberia

A new study reveals the Arctic is experiencing extreme climate changes, with Siberia and Alaska facing significant warming and drying. Permafrost is a common factor in vulnerable regions, and local data can support more effective management and adaptation approaches.

Marked decrease in Arctic pressure ridges

A team of researchers from the Alfred Wegener Institute analyzed aerial survey data showing a marked decrease in Arctic pressure ridges north of Greenland and in Fram Strait, declining by 12.2% per decade. The study found that the frequency and height of pressure ridges are decreasing due to the dramatic melting of older ice.

AMS Science Preview: Tall hurricanes, snow and wildfire

Early online research reveals associations between snowmelt timing, wildfires in Alaska, and rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones. The impact of climate patterns on extreme weather events is a growing concern.

Newly published study reveals diversity of novel hydrothermal vent styles on the Arctic Ocean floor

Researchers discovered a diversity of novel hydrothermal vent styles on the Arctic Ocean floor, including metal-poor hydrogen- and methane-enriched fluids. This expansion has significant implications for understanding the origin of these vents and assessing their global-scale impact on the ocean and Earth system.

Climate- and land use change threaten traditional food sources in Russia’s Far East

A study found that climate- and land use change will alter the availability of wild traditional foods in the Russian Far East, affecting Indigenous Peoples' health and livelihoods. Rural households heavily rely on these foods for income, with losses predicted in central and southern areas.

Coastal retreat in Alaska is accelerating because of compound climate impacts

Scientists warn that Alaska's Arctic Coastal Plain will experience unprecedented transformation due to the compounding effects of sea level rise, permafrost thaw subsidence, and erosion. By 2100, total land loss is expected to exceed erosional losses by up to eight times, posing new challenges to coastal communities.

‘Alaska’s Changing Environment’ — a new report

The University of Alaska Fairbanks report highlights environmental changes and extremes impacting Alaskans and their livelihoods. Warmer temperatures are particularly notable in winter, with the northern state experiencing an 8.2°F increase.

Occurrence of blue and fin whales in the Arctic

The study reveals that blue whales primarily occur in summer and autumn, while fin whales can be heard throughout the year. The data also confirms the sporadic occurrence of blue whales during winter months, which may be related to climate change.

In greening Arctic, caribou and muskoxen play key role

A University of California, Davis study reveals that large grazing wildlife like caribou and muskoxen influence the timing and abundance of Arctic plants. The research found that plants where these animals were present emerged earlier and were more abundant later in the season.

Tree growth conditions on the tundra in Finnmark and Svalbard

Record-high temperatures in Svalbard and East Finnmark create conducive conditions for tree growth, exceeding the classic 10°C threshold. The growing season and average temperature criteria were met at multiple weather stations, indicating a suitable climate for forest establishment.

Plant green-up and herbivory in Greenland

A study in Greenland found that plant species exhibited earlier green-up when grazed by herbivores, while others showed later growth. Herbivory also led to increased plant abundance in most affected species.

Planting trees in the Arctic could make global warming worse, not better, say scientists

Scientists argue that tree planting at high latitudes will accelerate rather than decelerate global warming due to the unique characteristics of Arctic ecosystems. Large herbivores like caribou may be a more viable nature-based solution to climate change in these regions.