A Fading Spectacle
The annual spectacle of drift ice in Hokkaido's northern seas is facing a bleak future due to global warming. A study by Hokkaido University researchers reveals a 30% decrease in ice thickness over 30 years, raising concerns about its future presence.
The study predicts a significant reduction in ice coverage by 2050, potentially leading to years with no drift ice reaching Hokkaido's coast. This decline could have a detrimental impact on fisheries and the marine ecosystem, as drift ice plays a crucial role in providing iron, a vital element for phytoplankton growth.
The lack of iron could disrupt the entire marine food chain, affecting not only the Sea of Okhotsk but also areas influenced by the Oyashio current. The study highlights the urgent need to address climate change and protect this natural wonder, ensuring the continued health of the marine ecosystem it supports.