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Antarctic krill sequester similar amounts of carbon to key coastal blue carbon habitats

Environmental Studies and Forestry

Antarctic krill sequester similar amounts of carbon to key coastal blue carbon habitats

E. L. Cavan, N. Mackay, et al.

Discover how Antarctic krill play a pivotal role in carbon sequestration, matching the capabilities of coastal blue carbon habitats! With a staggering 20 MtC sequestered each season, this groundbreaking research by E. L. Cavan and colleagues at various esteemed institutions emphasizes the urgency of protecting this vital carbon sink amidst climate change and expanding fisheries.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
This study reveals that Antarctic krill sequester a similar amount of carbon through sinking fecal pellets as key coastal blue carbon habitats like marshes, mangroves, and seagrass. Due to their massive biomass and fast-sinking pellets, krill sequester 20 MtC per productive season, equating to USD$4-46 billion depending on carbon pricing. This carbon is stored for at least 100 years, with some pellets reaching the North Pacific. The study highlights the vulnerability of this crucial carbon sink due to climate change and expanding krill fisheries, emphasizing the need for habitat and population protection.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
Sep 08, 2024
Authors
E. L. Cavan, N. Mackay, S. L. Hill, A. Atkinson, A. Belcher, A. Visser
Tags
Antarctic krill
carbon sequestration
climate change
blue carbon habitats
fishing impact
ecosystem protection
sinking fecal pellets

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