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Proximate measurements of a giant iceberg reveal the effects of meltwater on upper ocean properties

Measurements from a robotic underwater vehicle reveal the impacts of meltwater from the giant iceberg A-68A on the properties of the surrounding Southern Ocean. In addition to increasing surface stratification and mid-depth vertical mixing, the meltwater impacts primary productivity, with direct and indirect effects on ecosystems and carbon cycling.

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Fig. 1: Meltwater influence on temperature and salinity profiles around A-68A.

References

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This is a summary of: Lucas, N. S. et al. Giant iceberg meltwater increases upper-ocean stratification and vertical mixing. Nat. Geosci. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41561-025-01659-7 (2025).

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Proximate measurements of a giant iceberg reveal the effects of meltwater on upper ocean properties. Nat. Geosci. 18, 281–282 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41561-025-01660-0

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