Proposal of environmental protection for an ice-free area in the Maritime Antarctic (Elephant Point, Livingston Island)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5944/etfvi.10.2017.19058Keywords:
Elephant Point, Antarctic Special Protected Area, geomorphology, geoecology, archaeological sitesAbstract
AbstractIce-free areas in the Maritime Antarctica are environments showing a high degree of biodiversity and a wide range of geomorphological processes and landforms. In this paper we analyze the geomorphology, geoecology as well as the archaeological evidences left by the first Antarctic settlers in Elephant Point (Livingston Island). This ice-free area extends over 1.16 km2, with 17% of its surface deglaciated between 1956 and 2010. Using a geocological approach a clear linkage has been inferred between the geomorphological units and the distribution of the fauna and flora. Besides, five archaeological sites have been found in this peninsula corresponding to the first sealers who exploited the natural resources of the Antarctic Peninsula during the XVIII-XIX. Considering the unique natural heritage and the singularity of its archaeological remains, we propose the designation of Elephant Point as an Antarctic Special Protected Area with the purpose of preserving this environment for future generations.
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