Scientists draw an alarm signal after discovering that methane gas – a powerful gas with heating effect on the planet – flows in increasing quantities through the cracks on the bottom of the sea in the Antarctic area, as the region warms up. Recent discoveries suggest that leaks appear in a “Amazing rhythm”which raises questions about the accuracy of forecasts about future global warming, writes CNN.
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Huge amounts of methane have accumulated over the millennia below the bottom of the sea, and the gas can go out through the cracks, visible through a series of bubbles rising to the surface. Although knowledge about these leaks is limited, scientists emphasizes that methane is about 80 times more efficient in heat retention than carbon dioxide in the first 20 years after release.
In order to better understand the phenomenon, an international researchers team studied the shallow waters of the Ross Sea, using research ships, remote -controlled vehicles and divers for sampling, at depths between 5 and 240 meters. The results were surprising: over 40 methane leaks were identified, many of them in places previously considered safe, suggesting that the phenomenon is becoming more and more frequent.
“Something that was believed to be rare seems to become widespread now.”said Sarah Seabrook, marine researcher at Earth Sciences New Zealand and the study author published in Nature Communications. She added that the discoveries aroused a “Immediate enthusiasm ”followed quickly by “Anxiety and concern”.
Scientists warn that methane could quickly reach the atmosphere, becoming a significant source of unforeseen global warming, and that it could have cascade effects on the marine ecosystem. The phenomenon has been associated with climate change, including higher temperatures, sea level increase and land movement after glaciers.
“A vicious circle can be created: the climatic changes increase the methane leaks, which in turn accelerate the heating of the planet”, Seabrook explained. Andrew Thurber, professor of marine biology at the University of California, added that Antarctica holds vast methane tanks and, if global warming, these leaks could go from “A natural laboratory at an epicenter of danger.”
The researchers return to Antarctica next week to study leaks for two months and to better evaluate the impact on marine climate and ecosystems. Thurber emphasizes that methane is “A true unknown” And that it must be carefully studied to prevent the catastrophic consequences on the planet.
