Frontiers in Marine Science (Oct 2023)

Bridging the gap for ice–ocean–ecosystem processes: integrated observing system for the Ross Sea-far East Antarctic Region

  • Petra Heil,
  • Petra Heil,
  • Craig Stevens,
  • Craig Stevens,
  • Won Sang Lee,
  • Clare Eayrs,
  • Hyoung Chul Shin,
  • Simon P. Alexander,
  • Simon P. Alexander,
  • Wolfgang Rack

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2023.1206119
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 10

Abstract

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Our understanding of cross-disciplinary connections for Antarctica’s role in the Earth system remains incomplete, especially around its coastal margins. The focus here is on sea-ice, oceanic, and atmospheric drivers in the joint Ross Sea-far East Antarctic Region (RSfEAR)—one which spans a large longitudinal range and connects a number of ice shelves and polynyas promoting sea-ice growth and underpinning a diverse and rich ecosystem. Here, we present a minireview of recent case studies and how these inform the design for a future integrated ocean–sea ice–atmosphere observing system. The review is built around five themes: i) regional setting, ii) recent studies in the region and current strategies, iii) gap analysis, iv) future observing system design, and v) wider implications for stakeholders.

Keywords