A recent study published in Communications Earth & Environment revealed that the Adélie penguin colonies on the Antarctic coast are an important natural source of atmospheric ammonia, with effects that could impact global climate.
The research, led by Matthew Boyer from the INAR Institute at the University of Helsinki, was based on high-precision measurements near Base Marambio on Seymour Island (Antarctica), where a colony of over 30,000 breeding pairs allowed the analysis of the phenomenon under real conditions.
Guano and phytoplankton: a combination that generates clouds
The study showed that penguin guano releases large amounts of ammonia, a gas that, when combined with sulfur compounds emitted by marine phytoplankton, generates ultrafine atmospheric particles. These can become cloud condensation nuclei (CCN), which affect cloud formation and, consequently, modify the regional energy balance.
In particular, clouds in Antarctica play a crucial role: they can reflect solar radiation (cooling effect) or trap heat (warming effect), so small changes in their coverage have global implications.
Highlighted results and extended effects
- Ammonia concentrations of up to 13.5 ppb were detected when winds came from the colonies.
- In remote areas, the figures were up to 1,000 times lower.
- The rate of New Particle Formation (NPF) was up to 10,000 times higher in the presence of ammonia.
- Even after the penguins migrated, the guano-laden soil continued to emit ammonia for over a month.
Furthermore, the presence of dimethylamine (DMA) was detected, another substance that facilitates particle growth and contributes to these processes.
Key measurements and scientific methodology
The observations were carried out between January and March 2023, with an atmospheric monitoring container strategically located 300 meters southwest of the Argentine base Marambio.
The instruments used included:
- Infrared spectrometers to measure ammonia.
- Mass spectrometers to analyze aerosol precursor vapors.
- In situ cloud droplet analyzers.
In total, NPF events were recorded on 34% of days, with concentrations of over 15,000 particles per cm³.
Antarctic ecosystems and climate: an underestimated link
The finding contradicts the idea that the Southern Ocean is the main source of ammonia in the region. On the contrary, it highlights that animals—especially penguins—are relevant actors in atmospheric chemical cycles.
“Even individual organisms can have a measurable impact on global processes”, the authors indicate.
Penguins, climate, and new scientific questions
The study opens up new lines of research on how natural ecosystems contribute to atmospheric and climatic processes. In a context where Antarctica is key to understanding the effects of climate change, understanding the role of wildlife in air chemistry is essential.
Cover photo: Natacha Pisarenko
