CNN: An iceberg 80 times the size of Manhattan could destroy a fragile South Atlantic ecosystem

An iceberg 80 times the size of Manhattan could destroy a fragile South Atlantic ecosystemBy Kara Fox, CNN
Updated 4:49 PM ET, Wed November 4, 2020

(CNN)One of the world's largest icebergs is on a collision course with a South Atlantic island oasis, potentially threatening a rich ecosystem of wildlife including penguins, seals and krill.

The "A68a" iceberg, which broke off from Antarctica's Larsen C Ice Shelf in July 2017, is currently cruising through open waters just a few hundred kilometers away from the British Overseas Territory of South Georgia.

If the 4,700 square kilometer (1,815 square mile) mass -- greater than South Georgia itself -- stays on its current path and reaches the island's shores, scientists fear it could have a devastating effect on its wildlife populations for years to come.

Professor Geraint Tarling, Senior Biological Oceanographer at the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), told CNN that the iceberg could block seals and penguins from being able to access their normal feeding grounds at a time of year that is crucial for the colonies' growth.

Read more @https://www.cnn.com/2020/11/04/americas/worlds-biggest-iceberg-a68a-intl/index.html