Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
last yr.

Giant Viruses on Greenland Ice Could Help Reduce Melting

New research suggests these large viruses may naturally control algae that darken ice, potentially slowing climate change effects.

Algae on the surface of the ice in Greenland.
Image
One of the samples in which Laura Perini found giant virusses. At first glance it looks like dirty water, but the bag is teeming with microorganisms, one of those being the ice algae that darkens the ice. Credit: Laura Perini
Ice in Greenland

Overview

  • Scientists have discovered giant viruses on the Greenland ice sheet that could help mitigate ice melt by infecting algae.
  • These viruses are significantly larger than typical viruses, with genomes much more complex.
  • Algae blooms darken the ice, reducing its reflectivity and accelerating melting.
  • Researchers are exploring how effectively these viruses can control algae growth and slow down ice melt.
  • This discovery opens new avenues for natural climate change mitigation strategies.