Washington (AP) – population Emperor Penguins Penguins In one part of the Antarctic continent, it seems to decline faster than previously thought, according to a new analysis of satellite images released on Tuesday.
the The estimated population Of the 16 Penguins colonies – visible in satellite images taken between 2009 and 2024 – it decreased by 22 % during that period mainly due to climate change that shrinks the amount available Marine ice. Scientists said it is unclear whether this decrease is on the continent.
“The marine ice is very important for penguins because they multiply on marine ice and feed on marine ice,” said Peter Fritrever of British Antarctic Survey, which helped analyze data.
Scientists have previously estimated that the total population of the imperial penguin decreased by about 10 % throughout the Antarctica over the past decade and a half. It included the latest survey of an area covering the peninsula in Antarctica, Bahr Widal and Bilgeshevin Sea.
“It is completely concerned that the numbers are much worse than expected,” said Daniel Ziparte, a penguin researcher at the Woods Hall Oceanic Foundation, who did not participate in the study.
There is uncertainty in the latest estimate. The analysis depends on how the penguins are assembled in each region, where they are discovered in the form of one satellite that is taken every year.
The colonies, which were studied, are about 30 % of the total population of the imperial penguin, which lives only in the Antarctica. The loss of stable marine ice may affect penguins in ways that exceed the reduction of the lands of their reproduction.
“More predators such as leopard and Orcas may be able to approach the colonies if the sea ice is separated earlier in the year,” said Fritil.
He added that the high temperatures in the ocean and change the patterns of rain may also affect the survival of the penguins.
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