Antarctic Circumpolar Current:
Endangered Guardian
Antarctica has been recognized since 1959 as a continent worthy of special international protection. The Antarctic Circumpolar Current, which encircles the continent, has been a protective feature that has helped in limiting Glacial and Habitat loss by keeping the surrounding waters cold and deep. Nevertheless, the ravages of global warming are taking their toll on glaciers and the rich biodiversity that has characterized these waters; overfishing threatens many species including the foundational krill.
The area just to the west of the Drake Passage which separates South America from the closest tip of Antarctica is shown in the detail view. The contour-like lines represent the volume of (eastward) flow of the Antarctic Circumpolar current. The high volume of water through the narrowing strait of Drake Passage contributes to the turbulent seas and creates a rich ocean ecology.