In January 2025, a team of international scientists aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel, R/V Falkor (too), embarked on a remarkable journey in the Bellingshausen Sea off Antarctica. Their mission took an unexpected turn when, on January 13, the massive iceberg A-84, measuring approximately 510 square kilometers—about the size of Chicago—broke away from the George VI Ice Shelf. This event unveiled a vast stretch of seafloor that had been hidden beneath ice for centuries.
Seizing this rare opportunity, the researchers adjusted their plans to explore the newly exposed seabed. Utilizing the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian, they conducted an eight-day deep-sea survey, reaching depths of up to 1,300 meters. The ROV SuBastian, designed specifically for ocean science, is equipped with advanced sensors and tools that allowed the team to capture high-resolution images and collect samples from this uncharted underwater environment.
The discoveries made during these dives were astonishing. The team encountered a thriving ecosystem teeming with life, including large corals and sponges that provided habitats for various marine species such as icefish, giant sea spiders, and octopuses. The presence of these organisms in an area devoid of sunlight for such an extended period was unexpected. Dr. Patricia Esquete, a marine biologist from the University of Aveiro in Portugal and co-chief scientist of the expedition, expressed her surprise: “We didn’t expect to find such a beautiful, thriving ecosystem. Based on the size of the animals, the communities we observed have been there for decades, maybe even hundreds of years.”
The existence of such a vibrant community in total darkness raises intriguing questions about the survival strategies of these organisms. Typically, deep-sea ecosystems rely on organic material sinking from surface waters as a food source. However, this region had been sealed beneath a 150-meter-thick ice shelf, cutting off the usual supply of nutrients. The researchers hypothesize that ocean currents may transport essential nutrients from other areas, sustaining this hidden world. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for comprehending how life persists in extreme environments.
Beyond the biological findings, the expedition provided valuable insights into the geological history of the Antarctic Ice Sheet. By examining geological clues left by the retreating ice, the team aims to understand past patterns of ice loss, which is vital for predicting future changes and their potential impact on global sea levels. Sasha Montelli of University College London, also a co-chief scientist, emphasized the importance of this research: “The ice loss from the Antarctic Ice Sheet is a major contributor to sea level rise worldwide. Our work is critical for providing longer-term context of these recent changes, improving our ability to make projections of future change—projections that can inform actionable policies.”
To further investigate the effects of glacial meltwater on the region’s chemistry and ocean currents, the team deployed autonomous underwater gliders. Preliminary data suggest heightened biological productivity and a significant influx of meltwater from the retreating ice shelf. These findings indicate that melting ice can have complex effects on marine ecosystems, potentially enhancing productivity in some areas while posing challenges in others.
This mission was part of Challenger 150, a global initiative endorsed by UNESCO dedicated to deep-sea research. Dr. Jyotika Virmani, Executive Director of the Schmidt Ocean Institute, highlighted the significance of the expedition: “Being right there when this iceberg calved from the ice shelf presented a rare scientific opportunity. Serendipitous moments are part of the excitement of research at sea—they offer the chance to be the first to witness the untouched beauty of our world.”
The team’s findings have opened new avenues for understanding life beneath Antarctica’s floating ice shelves. The discovery of such a diverse and abundant ecosystem challenges previous assumptions about these environments and underscores the resilience of life in extreme conditions. As the researchers continue to analyze the collected data, they anticipate uncovering more about the adaptations that enable these organisms to thrive in darkness and isolation.
The implications of this research extend beyond biology. By studying these hidden ecosystems, scientists can gain insights into the broader impacts of climate change on polar regions. The melting of ice shelves and the subsequent exposure of seafloor areas may lead to shifts in marine biodiversity and alterations in oceanic carbon cycles. Understanding these processes is essential for predicting future changes and developing strategies to mitigate their effects.
The expedition also highlighted the importance of international collaboration in scientific research. The team comprised scientists from Portugal, the United Kingdom, Chile, Germany, Norway, New Zealand, and the United States, reflecting a shared commitment to exploring and understanding our planet’s most remote regions. Such partnerships are vital for advancing knowledge and addressing global challenges.
As the R/V Falkor (too) continues its missions, the data collected from this expedition will serve as a foundation for future research. The insights gained will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of Antarctic ecosystems and their role in the Earth’s climate system. The discovery of life flourishing beneath the ice serves as a reminder of the resilience of nature and the importance of preserving these pristine environments for future generations.