Antarctic Currents
Antarctic currents are oceanic flows that circulate around the continent of Antarctica. These currents are primarily driven by the cold, dense water that forms around the continent, which sinks and spreads out into the surrounding oceans. The most significant of these currents is the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, which flows eastward and connects the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
These currents play a crucial role in regulating global climate by influencing heat distribution and nutrient cycling in the oceans. They also affect marine ecosystems, supporting diverse wildlife, including species like krill and penguins, which rely on the nutrient-rich waters for survival.