The Antarctic continent has been iced up for millions of years
The debate over whether the ice sheet is at risk hinges partly on its past history. Scherer has found the first direct evidence that the ice sheet has collapsed before. In soil samples recovered from nearly two-thirds of a mile below the ice, he found fossils of tiny marine plants called diatoms. Some of the fossils were less than 650,000 years old, and Scherer says they were deposited the last time an open ocean, not ice, covered this part of Antarctica.
"Until now, there has been no direct evidence that it's happened before," says Scherer. Although he couldn't precisely determine the age of the diatoms, he suggests that they formed 400,000 years ago, a time when geologists believe that sea-surface temperatures were about 9 to 12 degrees warmer than today and sea levels possibly 65 feet higher. If he's right, the diatoms mark the ice sheet's last collapse.
Originally posted by leijen
Thanks Phil
Are you implying that
1. The Antarctic continent has been iced up for millions of years
2. That the Antarctic continent was geographically in a different position to have actually supported life of any kind.
personally I like number 2.
The Antartic continent may have been at a different geographical position as close as 15000 (fifteen Thousand) years.
Antarctic prehistory refers to the study of human occupation and activity in Antarctica before recorded history. It focuses on understanding the ways in which early humans interacted with and adapted to the extreme environment of Antarctica.
Archaeological evidence such as stone tools, camp sites, and animal bones have been discovered in Antarctica, providing proof of human presence in the region. Additionally, DNA analysis of ancient human remains found in the area has also confirmed human occupation.
The exact timing of human arrival in Antarctica is still debated among scientists. However, the oldest evidence of human occupation dates back to around 10,000 years ago, during the last major glacial period.
Early humans in Antarctica likely relied on hunting and gathering for survival, as well as using animal skins and furs for shelter and clothing. They also may have utilized fire for warmth and cooking, and developed specialized tools and techniques for navigating the harsh environment.
Studying Antarctic prehistory can provide valuable insights into how humans have adapted to extreme environments throughout history. It can also shed light on the history of human migration and settlement patterns, and contribute to our understanding of the effects of climate change on human societies.