Antarctica, that remote and frozen continent we usually imagine covered in perpetual ice, holds an incredibly fascinating secret. A recent discovery has perplexed the scientific community: amber was found on the white continent, key evidence confirming that a tropical forest existed there 90 million years ago.

This discovery not only redefines our understanding of the planet's past, but also invites us to reflect on the extreme climate changes that Earth has experienced.

What is amber and why is it so important?

Amber is a fossilized resin that comes from ancient trees. This resin often trapped small organisms or plant remains, becoming a time capsule that preserves invaluable information from the past.

Amber found in Antarctica contains traces of pollen, spores, and other materials that allow scientists to reconstruct the ecosystem that existed there millions of years ago. According to researchers, this material confirms that Antarctica was not always an icy desert, but rather harbored dense forests and a warm climate similar to that of today's tropical rainforests.

A journey to the past: Tropical Antarctica

Ninety million years ago, during the Cretaceous period, Earth's climate was much warmer. Antarctica was covered in lush forests and inhabited by a great diversity of species. This tropical paradise was possible thanks to the high concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and the continent's geographical position, which at that time was closer to the equator.

The discovery of amber adds to other evidence, such as dinosaur fossils and tree roots, that confirms the rich biodiversity that once existed in the region.

What does this tell us about climate change?

This discovery is not only a glimpse into the past, but also a reminder of the transformative power of climate.

1. Natural cycles of the planet
   The Earth has gone through several climate cycles, from ice ages to extreme warm periods like the Cretaceous.

2. Impact of current climate change
   Although natural climate changes are part of the planet's history, the global warming we face today is happening at an unprecedented rate due to human activities.

This finding invites us to reflect on how small alterations in the climate can completely transform an ecosystem.

How does this affect our perception of the planet?

The discovery of Antarctic amber broadens our perspective on the Earth's dynamics. It not only helps us understand what the planet was like millions of years ago, but also makes us aware of our responsibility to care for the environment we inhabit today.

Connect with the history of the planet!

The discovery of amber in Antarctica is further proof that our planet is constantly changing. Today we can marvel at the tropical past of a frozen continent and, at the same time, remember that what we do now will influence the world we leave to future generations.