Difficulty: Summiteer (Level 3)
Antarctica is experiencing rapid warming due to climate change caused by human activities. But a new study suggests penguin poop might help keep the place cool.
The study found that a chemical from penguin poop creates more clouds above the coastal areas of Antarctica. Researchers think these clouds probably block sunlight and help lower the temperature.
Penguins produce a lot of ammonia when they poop and pee. When this ammonia mixes with gases from tiny ocean plants called phytoplankton, it creates small particles in the air. These particles then grow into clouds.
But the effect of clouds also depends on what is underneath them. Ice and glaciers are also very bright and reflect sunlight. So, extra clouds over these bright surfaces could trap heat instead.
Penguins are in danger. Less sea ice makes it hard for them to nest, find food and hide from predators. This makes it even more important to understand their role in the environment.
