People form a different image of Antarctica than what it really is. They think of loads of ice in dark with winds blowing across the entire land. However, the scenario is quite different. Jake Grondin, a Biology student at Northeastern University has a different perception about the continent.
The majority of Grondin’s study focuses on various species, especially ice fish and their survival in such cold conditions. Further, the question arises, will they be able to survive if the conditions grow warmer. One of the false perceptions that people have is that it is tremendously cold and unbearable out there. However, to the contrary, the situation is different and the climate is bearable and pleasant.
Polar bears, seals, and sea birds are some very common species one may sight in Antarctica. And while travelling by sea boats to neighbouring stations, if they do spot an animal, Grondin and his team would make sure that there is no disturbance.
There are a few rules as the place has less population. Like, one cannot litter and spoil things for the safety of animals and people have to limit the use of tools and regulate the disposal of waste. Also for the safety of the people, they are advised to wear headlamps when it becomes dark outside.
It is not always dark nor is it always the opposite. One can experience four hours of sunlight to 12 hours of sunlight. These spans also tend to regulate the weather.
Regarding the speculations of the melting glacier because of global warming, Grondin still feels positive about it. He himself has become more conscious of living in such an environment- living with producing minimum amount of waste and saving as much as electricity as possible can make conditions better. If people adopt these habits all over the world, the environmental threat that stands in front of us can be reduced.
Akshara Palshetkar
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