Scientists made a big discovery in Antarctica – the world's largest fish breeding ground. Researchers from a marine research institute found the fish while mapping the seabed. They discovered schools of around 60 million icefish breeding in an area 240 square kilometers in size. The researchers had been filming the seabed for months. One said the idea that a huge breeding area of icefish in the sea was previously undiscovered "is totally fascinating".
The researchers want the area to be a Marine Protected Area to preserve the unique habitat. They want to keep the waters pristine. A recent study found that fishing boats in Antarctica are bringing millions of species from all around the globe. These are threatening the area's fragile eco-systems. Another researcher said the remoteness and sea-ice in Antarctica have protected it, but we should "be much more ambitious with marine conservation".
Try the same news story at these levels:
Antarctic Icefish - Level 5 or Antarctic Icefish - Level 6
Sources- https://scitechdaily.com/spectacular-discovery-in-antarctica-massive-icefish-breeding-colony-with-60-million-nests/
- https://www.cnet.com/news/scientists-in-disbelief-over-discovery-of-worlds-largest-fish-breeding-area/
- https://edition.cnn.com/2022/01/13/world/icefish-colony-discovery-scn/index.html
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