A team of scientists has developed **a high-resolution map** and a hierarchical classification system of the [ice-free lands in Antarctica](https://noticiasambientales.com/medio-ambiente/deshielo-record-en-la-antartida-un-escenario-que-preocupa/), available in *Scientific Data*, as reported by *Europa Press*. This study offers an unprecedented view of these unique ecosystems, which represent less than 0.5% of the continent and are increasingly threatened by [climate change and human activity](https://noticiasambientales.com/turismo/que-impacto-ambiental-puede-tener-el-auge-del-turismo-en-la-antartida/).
The new inventory divides Antarctic ecosystems into nine main environmental units, **33 habitat complexes, and 269 types of bioregional ecosystems**, providing an innovative framework for biodiversity protection in these areas.
“Many people are surprised to learn that there are [permanently ice-free lands in Antarctica](https://noticiasambientales.com/turismo/que-impacto-ambiental-puede-tener-el-auge-del-turismo-en-la-antartida/). However, these small areas host most of the **biodiversity on the continent**,” says Dr. Anikó B. Tóth from the University of New South Wales in Sydney.
These ecosystems support **highly specialized flora**, such as lichens, mosses, and two species of flowering plants: Antarctic hairgrass and pearlwort. They are also home to microorganisms, mites, springtails, tardigrades, nematodes, and various species of algae. Additionally, numerous seabirds, such as penguins, petrels, gulls, skuas, and albatrosses, have established breeding colonies in these areas.
## An Ecosystem in Transformation and Ice-Free Lands
The melting ice could significantly alter these areas, making them more accessible and less isolated. “Unlike other ecosystems that fragment and shrink in size, in Antarctica, **the ice-free areas will expand and become more interconnected**,” explains Dr. Tóth. “This could completely change the ecological dynamics and species composition, many of which rely on their isolation to survive.”
Professor David Keith, a study co-author, emphasizes that this work represents a fundamental advance in the understanding of Antarctic ecosystems. “By combining biophysical and biological data, we have created **a solid foundation for guiding conservation efforts** within the Antarctic Treaty System,” he says.
The classification system adopted in the study aligns with the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Global Ecosystem Typology, allowing **systematic risk assessment**, strategic placement of new protected areas, and monitoring of global conservation goals.
## Where Are the Ice-Free Areas in Antarctica?
According to experts, 98% of Antarctica is covered in ice. However, **the remaining 2% consists of areas without snow or ice**, such as the McMurdo valleys.
This location, near Ross Island, is characterized by **low humidity and surrounding mountains** that prevent the flow of ice from nearby glaciers.
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