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Evidence for a palaeo-subglacial lake on the Antarctic continental shelf

Author

Listed:
  • Gerhard Kuhn

    (Alfred-Wegener-Institut Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, 27568 Bremerhaven)

  • Claus-Dieter Hillenbrand

    (British Antarctic Survey, High Cross)

  • Sabine Kasten

    (Alfred-Wegener-Institut Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, 27568 Bremerhaven)

  • James A. Smith

    (British Antarctic Survey, High Cross)

  • Frank O. Nitsche

    (Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University)

  • Thomas Frederichs

    (University of Bremen)

  • Steffen Wiers

    (University of Bremen)

  • Werner Ehrmann

    (Institute for Geophysics and Geology, University of Leipzig)

  • Johann P. Klages

    (Alfred-Wegener-Institut Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, 27568 Bremerhaven)

  • José M. Mogollón

    (Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University)

Abstract

Subglacial lakes are widespread beneath the Antarctic Ice Sheet but their control on ice-sheet dynamics and their ability to harbour life remain poorly characterized. Here we present evidence for a palaeo-subglacial lake on the Antarctic continental shelf. A distinct sediment facies recovered from a bedrock basin in Pine Island Bay indicates deposition within a low-energy lake environment. Diffusive-advection modelling demonstrates that low chloride concentrations in the pore water of the corresponding sediments can only be explained by initial deposition of this facies in a freshwater setting. These observations indicate that an active subglacial meltwater network, similar to that observed beneath the extant ice sheet, was also active during the last glacial period. It also provides a new framework for refining the exploration of these unique environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Gerhard Kuhn & Claus-Dieter Hillenbrand & Sabine Kasten & James A. Smith & Frank O. Nitsche & Thomas Frederichs & Steffen Wiers & Werner Ehrmann & Johann P. Klages & José M. Mogollón, 2017. "Evidence for a palaeo-subglacial lake on the Antarctic continental shelf," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 8(1), pages 1-10, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:8:y:2017:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms15591
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms15591
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