Antarctic Krill

Antarctic krill are small crustaceans, typically 6 centimeters in length, that form the foundation of the entire Southern Ocean ecosystem. Despite their diminutive size, krill are arguably the most important species in Birdland --- virtually every larger species on the continent depends on them for survival.

Role in Birdland

Krill hold a unique legal status in Birdland as a "Critical Resource," the highest level of environmental protection available under the nation's conservation framework. This designation means that krill populations are treated as a matter of national security.

Biology

Antarctic krill form enormous swarms that can stretch for kilometers and contain millions of individuals. They feed primarily on phytoplankton growing on the undersurface of sea ice, making them particularly sensitive to changes in ice coverage and water temperature.

Conservation in Birdland

The 2022 Krill Preservation Treaty, negotiated by President Wadsworth, established strict international quotas on krill harvesting in Birdland's territorial waters. Joint research with Norwegian scientists has shown a 34% increase in krill breeding success in protected areas since the treaty took effect.