Antarctic Krill
Antarctic Krill are small crustaceans that play a massive role in the Antarctic ecosystem. Though they are tiny, they are one of the most abundant animal species on Earth, with a biomass estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of tons.
They are the primary food source for a wide variety of animals, including penguins, seals, whales, and fish. Antarctic Krill are filter feeders that consume phytoplankton and algae.
Their sheer numbers and their position at the bottom of the food chain make them a cornerstone of the Antarctic ecosystem. Without them, the entire ecosystem would collapse.
Antarctic Krill
Classification
Malacostraca > Euphausiacea > Euphausiidae > Euphausia > E. superba
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
2 - 2.5 inches
(5 - 6 cm)
Average Weight
0.05 oz
(1.4 g)
Average Life Span
5 - 6 years
Gestation Period
NA
Did You Know?
The Antarctic Krill is a small crustacean, similar to a shrimp, that plays a crucial role in the Antarctic ecosystem.
They form massive swarms that can be so dense they are visible from space!
Antarctic Krill feed on microscopic algae found in the ocean.
They are a primary food source for many animals, including whales, seals, penguins, and fish.
Despite their small size, Antarctic Krill are one of the most abundant animal species on Earth.
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