iceberg A-84 ecosystem beneath George VI Ice Shelf

A rich ecosystem lay beneath Antarctic ice

When iceberg A-84 broke away from Antarctica’s George VI Ice Shelf in January 2025, robotic submersibles found large corals, ancient sponges, icefish, sea spiders and octopuses beneath it. Nutrient-bearing ocean currents may help sustain these communities.

Rome ruled through local leaders

Rome often maintained control over communities without governing them directly. Loyal local elites could keep their laws and collect taxes locally; their cooperation helped police territory and bring in revenue with limited Roman manpower.

Some Islamic art has depicted Muhammad

Persian miniature paintings showed him from at least the 13th century, though views varied across regions and groups. Under the Safavids, artists began covering his face; images remained available in Iran and Turkey, while they could offend Muslims elsewhere.

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iceberg A-84 ecosystem beneath George VI Ice Shelf

A rich ecosystem lay beneath Antarctic ice

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