In 2022, tens of thousands of tourists visited Antarctica, which used to be accessible simply to researchers and scientists. And, as interest in exploring earth's extremes grows among the general public, don't be surprised the demand for excursions to boom in Antarctica.
Of course, not everyone is up for a trip to this frigid continent. And, the good news is you don't need to put on a snowsuit to learn interesting facts about Antarctica. Today, you'll do that straight from your own home, so continue reading for more information!
1. Antarctica Holds The majority of the Planet's Fresh Water
The Antarctic ice sheet is the biggest, covering nearly 14 million square kilometers. Moreover, only one percent of Antarctica is ice-free throughout the year. Thus, scientists estimate that a minimum of 60 % of the earth's freshwater is within Antarctica's ice sheet.
In some areas, the ice has ended 4 kilometers thick, about half the height of Mount Everest!
2. Antarctica Doesn't Have Any Trees
While it might appear surprising, Antarctica doesn't have trees or shrubs. There are hardly any plants either. Only two plant species are available – Antarctic hair grass and Antarctic pearlwort.
3. Antarctica Is really a Desert
With a lot freshwater in Antarctica, it might be surprising to learn that this landmass is really a desert. While the continent isn't hot and sandy, it receives hardly any precipitation. Under these terms, Antarctica qualifies as a polar desert.
4. Antarctica Has Active Volcanoes
Among the many volcanoes in Antarctica, there's two active ones. The very first is Mount Erebus, the southernmost active volcano on the planet.
The second volcano is Deception Island, which was once the home of a scientific station. However, it was abandoned over fifty years ago when the volcano erupted.
5. Fish in Antarctica Have 'Anti-Freeze'
Have you wondered how fish can survive within the polar oceans of Antarctica? Well, a unique protein in their blood works like anti-freeze, lowering the temperature where they freeze. As a result, they can reside in sub-zero temperatures.
6. There Are Countless Antarctica Animals
While there's not too many plants in Antarctica, there are lots of animals, including:
- Ten cetacean species (whales and dolphins)
- 46 bird species
- Six kinds of seals
- Seven types of penguins
- 235 marine species
- 67 insect species
In accessory for animal life in Antarctica, there are also more than a thousand fungi and countless algae species.
7. More Meteorites Are Found in Antarctica Than Elsewhere
Due towards the dry climate of Antarctica, it is nearly impossible for meteorites to corrode. Moreover, they are easier to spot on the surface of the white ice sheet compared to other terrains. Thus, in the last 45 years, scientists have collected a large number of rock examples of unknown origins.
8. There's a Meteorological Research Station at the Pole of Inaccessibility
The Antarctic Pole of Inaccessibility, the purpose farthest from surrounding seas, is 12,198 feet (3,718 m) above sea level. Besides this being site nearly impossible to find to when visiting Antarctica, but it comes with an average temperature of -58.2°C!
While it might appear like no human could have ever stepped foot within this remote area on a holiday to Antarctica, the Soviet Union established a meteorological research station here in the 1950s!
Share These Facts About Antarctica Together with your Friends!
After reading these eight interesting facts about Antarctica, you likely learn more about this unusual landmass. But, obviously, there are lots of more Antarctica facts, so continue your quest should you liked what you learned today!
Would you love to learn more interesting geographical information or travel advice? If that's the case, browse much more of our posts!
