Why scientists are counting tiny marine creatures, from Space
Published: 2/4/2025

Scientists are utilizing satellite technology to count tiny Antarctic marine creatures like krill by analyzing subtle color differences in seawater. Krill, small but critical animals, play a major role in the ecosystem as a food source for various marine wildlife. Conservationists are concerned about the impact of fishing and climate change on krill populations, prompting the need for innovative monitoring methods. Researchers from the University of Strathclyde, WWF, and the British Antarctic Survey are developing a novel approach to track krill numbers from space using unique light absorption measurements in seawater.