Antarctica's vegetation expansion signals climate change

New research shows that plant life is rapidly expanding on the Antarctic Peninsula as temperatures rise, with mosses and algae now covering an area four times the size of Central Park.

Bob Berwyn reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• Vegetation in Antarctica has increased tenfold since 1986 due to rising temperatures.
• The study documents a 30% acceleration in plant growth since 2016, raising concerns about future ecological changes.
• Scientists warn that warmer conditions could lead to the introduction of new species, altering the ecosystem.

Key quote:

"It’s becoming easier for life to live there. These rates of change we’re seeing made us think that perhaps we’ve captured the start of a more dramatic transformation."

— Olly Bartlett, University of Hertfordshire researcher

Why this matters:

Antarctica’s greening reflects the profound effects of global warming, even in the coldest regions. As plant life spreads, ecosystems may change rapidly, potentially allowing non-native species to invade and further disrupt the fragile Antarctic environment.