Fig. 2: Sea sponge-colonized Antarctic scallops demonstrate the potential dangers for organisms that do not avoid cryofouling.

a–c Unless colonized by the cryofouling-susceptible bush sponge (H. balfourensis), Antarctic scallops appear to be unaffected by cryofouling, even in areas where underwater ice growth is prevalent (Zones 1 and 2). d–h Photographic images depicting the progression of cryofouling-induced uplift (by buoyant ice) of sponge-colonized scallops in Zone 2. The negative consequence of cryofouling for scallops becomes apparent only when its surfaces have been colonized by the bush sponge H. balfourensis, which readily accrete ice. g When a sufficient volume of ice has accreted on the sponge, both species are rafted to the underside of the sea ice by buoyant flotation, where both appear to freeze in and die. Scallop is freezing into the underside of the sea ice. Scallop shell exteriors appear to be free of icing even after arriving at the underside of the sea ice. Note: Scallops arriving and freezing into the underside of the sea ice will eventually be enveloped by further sea ice growth. Scale bars indicated are approximates.