The famous white beluga whale, which was suspected to be a spy of Russia, was probably guarding 'Kremlin property' when it was found dead off the coast of Norway, according to a new documentary.

The whale,&nbsp;nicknamed Hvaldimir, which is a combination of the word for whale, hval and the first name of Russian President Vladimir Putin, was discovered floating at the Risavika Bay in southern Norway in September.

The fishermen were the first to spot the 14ft whale near the northern island of Ingoya in April 2019. The spy whale was wearing a harness which had a small camera mounted over it and a buckle which had the text marked on it "Equipment St Petersburg."

This discovery had fuelled assumptions that the beluga was probably a&nbsp;"spy whale".

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After carrying out investigations for 10 months, the makers of the BBC documentary Secrets of the Spy Whale found that some evidence hinted that the whale was being trained as a covert "guard whale".

"Our latest findings about the potential role that Hvaldimir had been trained to do brings us closer to solving the mystery, but they also prompt many further questions about what Russia might be seeking to guard in the Arctic, and why," said Jennifer Shaw, director of the film, while speaking to The Observer.

<h2>How do animals turn into guards?</h2>

While looking into the mystery, the team reached out to a former dolphin trainer and veterans of an early US Navy programme who explained how these creatures turned into guards.

Speaking to the newspaper, Blair Irvine said that the movements of swimmers create bubbles which then create noise.

Because the hearing of the dolphin is so sensitive, it becomes the best method for tracking intruders.

Shaw further told the newspaper that Hvaldimir was also trained in a similar way and was seen placing his nose on anything, which he made a target.

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According to the expert, it suggested that Beluga was recruited as part of a security patrol and maybe not as spy.

On September 1, Hvaldimir was found dead and the animal rights groups had said that it was shot.

In an autopsy, a 35cm in length and 3cm wide stick was found stuck in the mouth of the animal and police said Hvaldimir also had some "completely superficial" injuries, although "there was no evidence suggesting that Hvaldimir was shot".

"There is nothing in the investigations that have been carried out to establish that it is human activity that has directly led to Hvaldimir's death," said police.

(With inputs from agencies)

The famous white beluga whale, which was suspected to be a spy of Russia, was probably guarding 'Kremlin property' when it was found dead off the coast of Norway, according to a new documentary.

The famous white beluga whale, which was suspected to be a spy of Russia, was probably guarding 'Kremlin property' when it was found dead off the coast of Norway, according to a new documentary. The whale, nicknamed Hvaldimir, which is a combination of the word for whale, hval and the first name of Russian President Vladimir Putin, was discovered floating at the Risavika Bay in southern Norway in September. The fishermen were the first to spot the 14ft whale near the northern island of Ingoya in April 2019. The spy whale was wearing a harness which had a small camera mounted over it and a buckle which had the text marked on it "Equipment St Petersburg." This discovery had fuelled assumptions that the beluga was probably a "spy whale". Also Read: Putin plans to introduce 'ministry of sex' in Russia amid drooping birth rate After carrying out investigations for 10 months, the makers of the BBC documentary Secrets of the Spy Whale found that some evidence hinted that the whale was being trained as a covert "guard whale". "Our latest findings about the potential role that Hvaldimir had been trained to do brings us closer to solving the mystery, but they also prompt many further questions about what Russia might be seeking to guard in the Arctic, and why," said Jennifer Shaw, director of the film, while speaking to The Observer. How do animals turn into guards? While looking into the mystery, the team reached out to a former dolphin trainer and veterans of an early US Navy programme who explained how these creatures turned into guards. Speaking to the newspaper, Blair Irvine said that the movements of swimmers create bubbles which then create noise. Because the hearing of the dolphin is so sensitive, it becomes the best method for tracking intruders. Shaw further told the newspaper that Hvaldimir was also trained in a similar way and was seen placing his nose on anything, which he made a target. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says 'Unacceptable to Offer Russia Concessions on Ukraine' According to the expert, it suggested that Beluga was recruited as part of a security patrol and maybe not as spy. On September 1, Hvaldimir was found dead and the animal rights groups had said that it was shot. In an autopsy, a 35cm in length and 3cm wide stick was found stuck in the mouth of the animal and police said Hvaldimir also had some "completely superficial" injuries, although "there was no evidence suggesting that Hvaldimir was shot". "There is nothing in the investigations that have been carried out to establish that it is human activity that has directly led to Hvaldimir's death," said police. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian spy whale lost life while guarding ‘Kremlin property’ in Arctic: Report

The melting of the Arctic Sea has set alarm bells ringing. The climate scientists say it could make Europe shiver besides disrupting ocean circulation. Watch in for more details!

Arctic Warms, Wildlife Struggles For Survival

In an unbelievable discovery, scientists have found multiple mysterious underwater structures on the seafloor of the remote area of the&nbsp;Arctic.

The international team of researchers discovered a vast range of formations that were larger than football fields.&nbsp;

These "modern" formations stood at the edge of the&nbsp;Canadian&nbsp;Beaufort Sea.

Previously, the experts have spotted many gaping craters which are filled with ice and sediment and believed that it was created due to the ancient permafrost under the waves.

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According to a report published in IFL Science, between 2010 and 2022, a total of 65 newly formed craters were found by the scientists, the largest of which was said to be of the size of a city block and featuring six-storey buildings.

The team was headed by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI). They earlier thought that the permafrost spread over the area in the last stage of the ice age nearly 11,000 years ago.

However, when sea levels rose, the ancient permafrost on the Arctic shelf was covered.

<h2>Truth behind mysterious structure in the Arctic</h2>

In the latest research, the scientists took the help of underwater robots to collect samples from inside the newly-formed seafloor craters.

When the ice was analysed, it was found that the ice formed in present-day conditions.

Scientists found that the ice was created when deeper layers of ancient permafrost started melting under the sea and created brackish (slightly salty) groundwater which rose and sank again only to get refreeze on the seafloor.

According to a report published in IFL Science, the groundwater remains frozen at a temperature of -1.4C (29.5F) till the process starts again.

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“These findings upend our assumptions about underwater permafrost,” said the study’s lead author Charlie Paull, of the MBARI, in a&nbsp;statement.

“We previously believed all underwater permafrost was leftover from the last ice age, but we’ve learned that submarine permafrost ice is also actively forming and decomposing on the modern seafloor,” he added.

“Our work shows that permafrost ice is both actively forming and decomposing near the seafloor over widespread areas, creating a dynamic underwater landscape with massive sinkholes and large mounds of ice covered in sediment," Paull stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

In an unbelievable discovery, scientists have found multiple mysterious underwater structures on the seafloor of the remote area of the Arctic. The international team of researchers discovered a vast range of formations that were larger than football fields.

In an unbelievable discovery, scientists have found multiple mysterious underwater structures on the seafloor of the remote area of the Arctic. The international team of researchers discovered a vast range of formations that were larger than football fields. These "modern" formations stood at the edge of the Canadian Beaufort Sea. Previously, the experts have spotted many gaping craters which are filled with ice and sediment and believed that it was created due to the ancient permafrost under the waves. Also Read: Scientists are now planning to 'grow' ice and 'refreeze' Arctic Sea According to a report published in IFL Science, between 2010 and 2022, a total of 65 newly formed craters were found by the scientists, the largest of which was said to be of the size of a city block and featuring six-storey buildings. The team was headed by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI). They earlier thought that the permafrost spread over the area in the last stage of the ice age nearly 11,000 years ago. However, when sea levels rose, the ancient permafrost on the Arctic shelf was covered. Truth behind mysterious structure in the Arctic In the latest research, the scientists took the help of underwater robots to collect samples from inside the newly-formed seafloor craters. When the ice was analysed, it was found that the ice formed in present-day conditions. Scientists found that the ice was created when deeper layers of ancient permafrost started melting under the sea and created brackish (slightly salty) groundwater which rose and sank again only to get refreeze on the seafloor. According to a report published in IFL Science, the groundwater remains frozen at a temperature of -1.4C (29.5F) till the process starts again. Also Read: There is an ancient underwater 'Stonehenge' beneath Lake Michigan in US. It was created by... “These findings upend our assumptions about underwater permafrost,” said the study’s lead author Charlie Paull, of the MBARI, in a statement. “We previously believed all underwater permafrost was leftover from the last ice age, but we’ve learned that submarine permafrost ice is also actively forming and decomposing on the modern seafloor,” he added. “Our work shows that permafrost ice is both actively forming and decomposing near the seafloor over widespread areas, creating a dynamic underwater landscape with massive sinkholes and large mounds of ice covered in sediment," Paull stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Another world with six-storey buildings beneath the Arctic? Here's what scientists found on its seafloor

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Moscow was said to be "fully ready" for detonating a nuclear bomb at "any moment" in the Arctic, as per a report published in The Daily Mail.

Soviet test site's director Rear Admiral Andrei Sinitsyn said that the testing facilities are prepared and can be used immediately "if the order is given".

"The test site is ready to resume full-scale testing activities... The laboratory and testing facilities are ready. The personnel are ready," said Rear Admiral Sinitsyn, while speaking to the state-owned Rossiyskaya Gazeta.&nbsp;

He added that "foreign intelligence" has been monitoring the site, which is "likely a sign of a concern over nuclear tests".

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"We are constantly ready to repel all types of threats, including the penetration of sabotage and reconnaissance groups onto the island," he stated.

Sinitsyn said that "the 'Central Test Site of the Russian Federation' would be used for 'conducting and providing non-nuclear explosive experiments". He added that the tests were "in the interests of state security".

<h2>Can resume nuclear testing after Putin's order: Sinitsyn&nbsp;</h2>

Speaking about the preparedness of the site, Sinitsyn said, "The testing ground is ready to resume full-scale testing activities. Ready in full."

He said that the test can go ahead if Russian President Vladimir Putin gives an order.

Since October 1990, the site has not been used for nuclear testing.

Sinitsyn said that the priority is to deter aggressors by "readiness" of testing ground infrastructure.

He added that this includes maintaining a 'laboratory' and 'experimental base' in a prepared state.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Putin, NATO Pushing World to Brink of World War III?

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"The testing ground has the appropriate staff, weapons, equipment, that is, everything that is necessary for our activities," Sinitsyn said.

Days back, MP Andrei Kolesnik had appealed to Putin to authorise a nuclear bomb test as a warning signal to the Western countries.&nbsp;

"We need to carry out a nuclear explosion somewhere, at some testing ground," Andrei Kolesnik, who is from the ruling United Russia party.

"Nuclear tests are currently prohibited in our country. But maybe people should see what all this actually leads to, they should hear. If we lift the moratorium, maybe humanity will think twice," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Moscow was said to be "fully ready" for detonating a nuclear bomb at "any moment" in the Arctic, as per a report published in The Daily Mail.

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Moscow was said to be "fully ready" for detonating a nuclear bomb at "any moment" in the Arctic, as per a report published in The Daily Mail. Soviet test site's director Rear Admiral Andrei Sinitsyn said that the testing facilities are prepared and can be used immediately "if the order is given". "The test site is ready to resume full-scale testing activities... The laboratory and testing facilities are ready. The personnel are ready," said Rear Admiral Sinitsyn, while speaking to the state-owned Rossiyskaya Gazeta. He added that "foreign intelligence" has been monitoring the site, which is "likely a sign of a concern over nuclear tests". Also Read: Putin orders Russian army to become second largest after China's at 1.5 million-strong "We are constantly ready to repel all types of threats, including the penetration of sabotage and reconnaissance groups onto the island," he stated. Sinitsyn said that "the 'Central Test Site of the Russian Federation' would be used for 'conducting and providing non-nuclear explosive experiments". He added that the tests were "in the interests of state security". Can resume nuclear testing after Putin's order: Sinitsyn Speaking about the preparedness of the site, Sinitsyn said, "The testing ground is ready to resume full-scale testing activities. Ready in full." He said that the test can go ahead if Russian President Vladimir Putin gives an order. Since October 1990, the site has not been used for nuclear testing. Sinitsyn said that the priority is to deter aggressors by "readiness" of testing ground infrastructure. He added that this includes maintaining a 'laboratory' and 'experimental base' in a prepared state. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Putin, NATO Pushing World to Brink of World War III? "The testing ground has the appropriate staff, weapons, equipment, that is, everything that is necessary for our activities," Sinitsyn said. Days back, MP Andrei Kolesnik had appealed to Putin to authorise a nuclear bomb test as a warning signal to the Western countries. "We need to carry out a nuclear explosion somewhere, at some testing ground," Andrei Kolesnik, who is from the ruling United Russia party. "Nuclear tests are currently prohibited in our country. But maybe people should see what all this actually leads to, they should hear. If we lift the moratorium, maybe humanity will think twice," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia can blast a nuclear bomb at 'any moment' in the Arctic: Report

Scientists have uncovered alarming findings about the Arctic's melting permafrost, which is releasing toxic mercury into water systems. This contamination could disrupt the region’s food chain and pose significant risks to local communities that rely on fish and game, according to researchers from the University of Southern California (USC).

<h2>Study Tracks Mercury in Yukon River</h2>

As the Yukon River flows westward towards the Bering Sea, it transports hazardous materials due to the erosion of permafrost along its path. This process introduces mercury-laden sediment into the water, according to a study published Thursday in Environmental Research Letters. The scientists noted that the mercury has likely been trapped in the permafrost for thousands of years.

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&nbsp;"There could be this giant mercury bomb in the Arctic waiting to explode," warned Josh West, professor of Earth sciences at USC. The river’s shifting flow is rapidly eroding sediment, releasing large amounts of mercury into the ecosystem.

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<h2>Long-Term Health and Environmental Impact</h2>

While immediate threats to drinking water are minimal, the research warns of the cumulative danger. As mercury builds up in the food chain through fish and wildlife, Arctic communities could face severe health consequences. "Decades of exposure, especially with increasing levels, could take a huge toll on the environment and human health," said Isabel Smith.

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With over 5 million people living in the Arctic region, the potential impact of this toxic release could escalate over time, raising concerns about the future of both the ecosystem and human life. 
The Arctic is melting faster than expected, leading to rising sea levels and longer days. Recent studies show the Greenland ice sheet is unstable and could put 400 million people at risk of flooding.

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have uncovered alarming findings about the Arctic's melting permafrost, which is releasing toxic mercury into water systems. This contamination could disrupt the region’s food chain and pose significant risks to local communities that rely on fish and game, according to researchers from the University of Southern California (USC).

Scientists have uncovered alarming findings about the Arctic's melting permafrost, which is releasing toxic mercury into water systems. This contamination could disrupt the region’s food chain and pose significant risks to local communities that rely on fish and game, according to researchers from the University of Southern California (USC). Study Tracks Mercury in Yukon River As the Yukon River flows westward towards the Bering Sea, it transports hazardous materials due to the erosion of permafrost along its path. This process introduces mercury-laden sediment into the water, according to a study published Thursday in Environmental Research Letters. The scientists noted that the mercury has likely been trapped in the permafrost for thousands of years. Also read | US resident sues Hard Rock Hotel for $500,000 after falling out of golf cart "There could be this giant mercury bomb in the Arctic waiting to explode," warned Josh West, professor of Earth sciences at USC. The river’s shifting flow is rapidly eroding sediment, releasing large amounts of mercury into the ecosystem. Also read |Air India female crew member assaulted in London hotel on August 15 Long-Term Health and Environmental Impact While immediate threats to drinking water are minimal, the research warns of the cumulative danger. As mercury builds up in the food chain through fish and wildlife, Arctic communities could face severe health consequences. "Decades of exposure, especially with increasing levels, could take a huge toll on the environment and human health," said Isabel Smith. Also read | India: Dog terrorises UP colony, launches attack on 17 people within an hour With over 5 million people living in the Arctic region, the potential impact of this toxic release could escalate over time, raising concerns about the future of both the ecosystem and human life. The Arctic is melting faster than expected, leading to rising sea levels and longer days. Recent studies show the Greenland ice sheet is unstable and could put 400 million people at risk of flooding. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists warn of 'Mercury bomb' in Arctic as melting permafrost threatens environment

In a rare tragic incident, two polar bears fatally attacked a worker at a remote radar site in the Arctic region of Canada. The increasing number of fatal polar bear attacks in recent years has prompted an investigation into these events.

The incident which took place on Brevoort Island, in Canada's far-northeastern territory of Nunavut, was confirmed by Nasittuq Corporation, the logistics company operating and managing the Canadian government radar sites. One of the bears was put down by other workers who responded to the scene.

"An attack by two polar bears has resulted in the loss of one of our valued employees," the company said Friday, as reported by CBS News.

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“Safety and well-being of our employees is our highest priority,” the company said. “We are working closely with local authorities and regulatory agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident," it added.

This incident was at least the second since the past year, where a polar bear attack resulted in a death.&nbsp;

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues affected by this loss," the company said.

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In 2023, a woman and her one-year-old son were killed after a polar bear chased the residents of a small village in Alaska, making it the first fatal polar bear attack in 30 years.

According to the Canadian government, Canada is home to over 17,000 polar bears, about two-thirds of the total population in the world. The United States has classified them as a threatened species. Global warming and the melting of sea ice are dangerous to their population.

According to a 2017 research, there have been about 73 polar bear attacks reported across Canada, the United States, Norway, Greenland, and Russia from 1870 till 2014, 20 of them being fatal.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a rare tragic incident, two polar bears fatally attacked a worker at a remote radar site in the Arctic region of Canada. The increasing number of fatal polar bear attacks in recent years has prompted an investigation into these events.

In a rare tragic incident, two polar bears fatally attacked a worker at a remote radar site in the Arctic region of Canada. The increasing number of fatal polar bear attacks in recent years has prompted an investigation into these events. The incident which took place on Brevoort Island, in Canada's far-northeastern territory of Nunavut, was confirmed by Nasittuq Corporation, the logistics company operating and managing the Canadian government radar sites. One of the bears was put down by other workers who responded to the scene. "An attack by two polar bears has resulted in the loss of one of our valued employees," the company said Friday, as reported by CBS News. Also read | Volcanic eruption in 536 spewed so much ash that Sun didn't shine for 18 months “Safety and well-being of our employees is our highest priority,” the company said. “We are working closely with local authorities and regulatory agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident," it added. This incident was at least the second since the past year, where a polar bear attack resulted in a death. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues affected by this loss," the company said. Also read | 'More oceanfront property, right?': Trump dismisses climate change threat leading to sea-level rise In 2023, a woman and her one-year-old son were killed after a polar bear chased the residents of a small village in Alaska, making it the first fatal polar bear attack in 30 years. According to the Canadian government, Canada is home to over 17,000 polar bears, about two-thirds of the total population in the world. The United States has classified them as a threatened species. Global warming and the melting of sea ice are dangerous to their population. According to a 2017 research, there have been about 73 polar bear attacks reported across Canada, the United States, Norway, Greenland, and Russia from 1870 till 2014, 20 of them being fatal. (With inputs from agencies)

Two polar bears attack Canadian worker fatally in Canada's Arctic region

Russian navy has commenced planned exercises involving the majority of its fleet across the Arctic, Pacific, Baltic, and Caspian seas. Watch in for more details!

Russian drills in  Arctic, Pacific, Baltic & Caspian seas

The US report, released on Monday, noted that Russia has in recent years beefed up its military presence in the Arctic, reopening and modernising several bases and airfields abandoned since the end of the Soviet era. China, meanwhile, has poured money into polar exploration and research to build a “Polar Silk Road”.

US wary of China-Russia cooperation in Arctic

Beijing and Moscow have hit out at claims from the United States that growing cooperation between China and Russia in the Arctic could threaten regional stability. Watch in for more details!

US military intercepts Russian, Chinese bombers near Alaska

US: China-Russia cooperation in Arctic could threaten stability

Pentagon has released its new strategy to counter Russia, China in the Arctic. The policy stands on three pillars- enhancing capabilities, working with allies, and exercising US presence in the Arctic.

Strategic buildup in Arctic circle, US says 'China-Russia in Arctic could threaten stability'

Arctic showdown: Pentagon's new Arctic strategy

Pentagon has released its new strategy to counter Russia, China in the Arctic. The policy stands on three pillars- enhancing capabilities, working with allies, and exercising U.S. presence in the Arctic.

New Pentagon Arctic Strategy focused on Russia, China

The United States is looking to boost intelligence collection in the Arctic and enhance cooperation with allies in the region, to prevent Russia and China from exploiting the cold and icy northern region at America’s expense. Watch in for more details!

US to upgrade sensors, communications & space technologies in Arctic

The United States is looking to boost intelligence collection in the Arctic and enhance cooperation with allies in the region, to prevent Russia and China from exploiting the cold and icy northern region at America’s expense.

US to amp up defence against Russia and China in the Arctic

The Chinese and Russians are collaborating on a new Silk Road in the Arctic. On the 6th of July, As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was preparing for his state visit to Russia, a train left Moscow for the Arctic. Did China leak the news of its departure to the media to dampen the mood around India-Russia summit?

Gravitas: China, Russia collaborate on a new Silk Road in the Arctic. What does it mean for India?

Russia's far east region is proven to be a key topic of discussion during the Indian Prime Minister's visit to Moscow. Although the far east is underdeveloped with extreme weather, the region is of great strategic importance. In this exclusive ground report WION's Principal Correspondent Siddharth MP tells as to why Russia is in fact betting big on the Arctic and the far east region? Watch this report to know more!

India-Russia Eastern Maritime Corridor: An Energy Superhighway

Maritime trade between Europe and Asia goes back many centuries. All these years the trade route has remained unchanged but Russia sees it differently. Due to global warming and melting Polar Ice, Russia wants to firmly establish a much shorter Europe-Asia sea route that's entirely under Russian control. Here's an exclusive ground report by WION's senior correspondent Sidhharth MP from Russia's Far East Arctic region. Watch in for more details!

Russia's commercial, military interests in the Arctic region | Exclusive Ground report from Arctic

Researchers have found new viruses on the surface of Arctic ice that could slow down the melting of ice due to global warming. Laura Perini from the Department of Environmental Science at Aarhus University and her team have revealed that these giant viruses feed off the algae on ice sheets. These algal blooms often lead to faster ice melting, thus exacerbating the effect of greenhouse gases. Scientists believe that the viruses, living alongside the algae, can help control the algal spread and thus serve as a natural control mechanism.

"We don't know a lot about the viruses, but I think they could be useful as a way of alleviating ice melting caused by algal blooms. How specific they are and how efficient it would be, we do not know yet. But by exploring them further, we hope to answer some of those questions," said Laura Perini.

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She explains that it is the first time that such algae-eating viruses have been found in the ice sheets of the Arctic.

"We analyzsed samples from dark ice, red snow, and melting holes (cryoconite). In both the dark ice and red snow we found signatures of active giant viruses. And that is the first time they've been found on surface ice and snow containing a high abundance of pigmented microalgae," she was quoted as saying by Space Daily.

Despite being of large size, these viruses can’t be seen with the naked eyes. The scientists only came to know about them after they analysed the DNA in samples taken from the ice.

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"In the total mRNA sequenced from the samples, we found the same markers as in the total DNA, so we know they have been transcribed. It means that the viruses are living and active on the ice," she said.

Giant viruses are still quite mysterious creatures, having only been discovered recently on the icy continent. What makes them different from their viral kin is their bustling activity—they're equipped with numerous active genes that enable them to perform tasks like DNA repair, replication, transcription, and translation. More research is needed to unravel more insights about these microcreatures.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers have found new viruses on the surface of Arctic ice that could slow down the melting of ice due to global warming. Laura Perini from the Department of Environmental Science at Aarhus University and her team have revealed that these giant viruses feed off the algae on ice sheets.

Researchers have found new viruses on the surface of Arctic ice that could slow down the melting of ice due to global warming. Laura Perini from the Department of Environmental Science at Aarhus University and her team have revealed that these giant viruses feed off the algae on ice sheets. These algal blooms often lead to faster ice melting, thus exacerbating the effect of greenhouse gases. Scientists believe that the viruses, living alongside the algae, can help control the algal spread and thus serve as a natural control mechanism. "We don't know a lot about the viruses, but I think they could be useful as a way of alleviating ice melting caused by algal blooms. How specific they are and how efficient it would be, we do not know yet. But by exploring them further, we hope to answer some of those questions," said Laura Perini. Also read: Hubble Space Telescope: NASA`s plan for more cosmic discoveries She explains that it is the first time that such algae-eating viruses have been found in the ice sheets of the Arctic. "We analyzsed samples from dark ice, red snow, and melting holes (cryoconite). In both the dark ice and red snow we found signatures of active giant viruses. And that is the first time they've been found on surface ice and snow containing a high abundance of pigmented microalgae," she was quoted as saying by Space Daily. Despite being of large size, these viruses can’t be seen with the naked eyes. The scientists only came to know about them after they analysed the DNA in samples taken from the ice. Also read: NASA`s new Instagram augmented reality filter brings universe to your fingertips "In the total mRNA sequenced from the samples, we found the same markers as in the total DNA, so we know they have been transcribed. It means that the viruses are living and active on the ice," she said. Giant viruses are still quite mysterious creatures, having only been discovered recently on the icy continent. What makes them different from their viral kin is their bustling activity—they're equipped with numerous active genes that enable them to perform tasks like DNA repair, replication, transcription, and translation. More research is needed to unravel more insights about these microcreatures. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists discover giant viruses that eat ice-melting algae in the Arctic

One of Norway’s Arctic islands recorded its first case of a walrus dying from bird flu, a researcher told news agency AFP&nbsp;on Monday (Apr 29). The walrus was found among six others on Hopen Island in the Svalbard archipelago&nbsp;last year.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the case</h2>

Christian Lydersen, of the Norwegian Polar Institute, told AFP that around six dead walrus were found last year in the Svalbard islands which are around 1,000 kilometres away from the North Pole. The islands are also halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hospital-toilets-may-harbour-drug-resistant-superbugs-posing-risk-to-patients-says-study-716666">Hospital toilets may harbour drug-resistant superbugs, posing risk to patients, says study</a>

“It is the first time that bird flu has been recorded in a walrus,” said Lydersen, as quoted by the news agency. The conclusion was reached after tests were carried out at a German laboratory which found traces of the bird flu virus.&nbsp;

However, Lydersen said that the sample was too small to determine whether it was the H5N1 or the H5N8 strain. The researcher also noted that it is “not improbable” that some of the walruses found also had bird flu.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Important to monitor developments’</h2>

The case has raised concerns among researchers. Lydersen said that it is important to monitor developments as walruses tend to group together during summer when the ice flow melts.

Notably, while bird flu primarily spreads through avian hosts like ducks and geese, mammals have also been infected due to the consumption of infected birds and living close to other animals.&nbsp;

A walrus which can grow to a weight of two tonnes mainly eats fish, but sometimes also consumes marine birds.&nbsp;

Frank Wong, a molecular microbiologist at the CSIRO Australian Animal Health Laboratory reportedly raised concerns about the threat posed by the transmission of bird flu to marine mammals.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-study-the-reproductive-strategy-of-alpacas-which-directly-inseminate-uterus-716783">Scientists study the reproductive strategy of alpacas, which directly inseminate uterus</a>

He noted that animals such as sea lions and fur seals have previously fallen victim to the disease.&nbsp;

There is also the risk of a polar bear eating an infected walrus corpse. The report by AFP citing American officials said that bird flu has already killed one polar bear in Alaska.&nbsp;

According to Antarctic researchers, thousands of marine mammals have died from bird flu viruses in South America.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

One of Norway’s Arctic islands recorded its first case of a walrus dying from bird flu, a researcher told news agency AFP on Monday (Apr 29). The walrus was found among six others on Hopen Island in the Svalbard archipelago last year.

One of Norway’s Arctic islands recorded its first case of a walrus dying from bird flu, a researcher told news agency AFP on Monday (Apr 29). The walrus was found among six others on Hopen Island in the Svalbard archipelago last year. What we know about the case Christian Lydersen, of the Norwegian Polar Institute, told AFP that around six dead walrus were found last year in the Svalbard islands which are around 1,000 kilometres away from the North Pole. The islands are also halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Also Read | Hospital toilets may harbour drug-resistant superbugs, posing risk to patients, says study “It is the first time that bird flu has been recorded in a walrus,” said Lydersen, as quoted by the news agency. The conclusion was reached after tests were carried out at a German laboratory which found traces of the bird flu virus. However, Lydersen said that the sample was too small to determine whether it was the H5N1 or the H5N8 strain. The researcher also noted that it is “not improbable” that some of the walruses found also had bird flu. ‘Important to monitor developments’ The case has raised concerns among researchers. Lydersen said that it is important to monitor developments as walruses tend to group together during summer when the ice flow melts. Notably, while bird flu primarily spreads through avian hosts like ducks and geese, mammals have also been infected due to the consumption of infected birds and living close to other animals. A walrus which can grow to a weight of two tonnes mainly eats fish, but sometimes also consumes marine birds. Frank Wong, a molecular microbiologist at the CSIRO Australian Animal Health Laboratory reportedly raised concerns about the threat posed by the transmission of bird flu to marine mammals. Also Read | Scientists study the reproductive strategy of alpacas, which directly inseminate uterus He noted that animals such as sea lions and fur seals have previously fallen victim to the disease. There is also the risk of a polar bear eating an infected walrus corpse. The report by AFP citing American officials said that bird flu has already killed one polar bear in Alaska. According to Antarctic researchers, thousands of marine mammals have died from bird flu viruses in South America. (With inputs from agencies)

First case of Walrus dying from bird flu recorded on Arctic island: Researcher

The Russian space agency, Roscosmos, announced on Saturday the commissioning of the first satellite system in the world for the observation of the Arctic Circle. Arktika-M was created on the basis of the unified Navigator platform of the Russian Lavochkin corporation. Watch in for more details!

Russia readies Arctic Observation satellite, 1st space surveillance system over Arctic

Russia activates world's first satellite for Arctic observation

Is the US preparation for a war against Russia in the Arctic? Of the eight Arctic countries, seven are NATO members, Finland and Sweden being the latest entrants. Reports say America may be building a weapon storage facility in the Arctic. Will the move provoke Russia that has a strategic advantage in the region?

Gravitas: Is US preparing for a war against Russia in the Arctic?

Climate change in the Arctic particularly in the last decade or two has drastically altered the feeding habits of reindeers. These fascinating animals are now struggling to feed on their own especially during the winters. Watch in for more details!

Climate change alters feeding habits of Arctic Reindeer

Climate change is impacting diamond mining in Canada's Arctic region. An unusually warm winter in Canada has delayed the opening of a 400-kilometre ice road that provides access to key diamond mines in the region. What does that mean for the sector, which is already facing the heat from environmental groups? And for the local economy?

Unusually warm winter delays opening of 400 km 'ice road', with key access to diamond mines

The Arctic could experience ice-free summer days within the next decade in a&nbsp;profound change of the Tundra region's&nbsp;landscape from a "white Arctic" to a "blue Arctic", according to a new study.&nbsp;

The study, published in the journal Nature Reviews Earth &amp; Environment, attributes this accelerated ice melt to emissions from burning fossil fuels in&nbsp;a significant departure from previous projections. The research suggests that the first ice-free day could arrive more than a decade earlier than initially estimated.

<h2>Ice-free Septembers on Arctic to come soon: Study</h2>

Scientists predict that consistently ice-free Septembers may become a reality between 2035 and 2067, with the specific timeline hinging on global efforts to curb fossil fuel consumption.

Alarming scenarios project potential ice-free conditions from May to January by the end of the century under high-emission scenarios, and from August to October under low-emission scenarios.

Also watch |&nbsp;The Arctic will be ice-free in only a few more years: Study

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Lead author Alexandra Jahn, an associate professor of atmospheric and oceanic sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder told The Guardian: "This would transform the Arctic into a completely different environment, from a white summer Arctic to a blue Arctic. So even if ice-free conditions are unavoidable, we still need to keep our emissions as low as possible to avoid prolonged ice-free conditions."

<h2>Is it the end? No scope for improvement?</h2>

Despite the grim outlook, Jahn suggests a ray of hope. She points out that, unlike the slow-building ice sheet in Greenland, if measures are taken to remove CO2 from the atmosphere in the future, the Arctic sea ice could make a comeback within a decade.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-chum-salmon-breeding-in-arctic-and-they-believe-its-an-ominous-sign-670905">Chum salmon are breeding in Arctic, and it is 'an ominous sign’ for humanity</a>

"Unlike the ice sheet in Greenland that took thousands of years to build, even if we melt all the Arctic sea ice, if we can then figure out how to take CO2&nbsp;back out of the atmosphere in the future to reverse warming, sea ice will come back within a decade," Jahn was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Arctic could experience ice-free summer days within the next decade in a profound change of the Tundra region's landscape from a "white Arctic" to a "blue Arctic", according to a new study.

The Arctic could experience ice-free summer days within the next decade in a profound change of the Tundra region's landscape from a "white Arctic" to a "blue Arctic", according to a new study. The study, published in the journal Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, attributes this accelerated ice melt to emissions from burning fossil fuels in a significant departure from previous projections. The research suggests that the first ice-free day could arrive more than a decade earlier than initially estimated. Ice-free Septembers on Arctic to come soon: Study Scientists predict that consistently ice-free Septembers may become a reality between 2035 and 2067, with the specific timeline hinging on global efforts to curb fossil fuel consumption. Alarming scenarios project potential ice-free conditions from May to January by the end of the century under high-emission scenarios, and from August to October under low-emission scenarios. Also watch | The Arctic will be ice-free in only a few more years: Study × Lead author Alexandra Jahn, an associate professor of atmospheric and oceanic sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder told The Guardian: "This would transform the Arctic into a completely different environment, from a white summer Arctic to a blue Arctic. So even if ice-free conditions are unavoidable, we still need to keep our emissions as low as possible to avoid prolonged ice-free conditions." Is it the end? No scope for improvement? Despite the grim outlook, Jahn suggests a ray of hope. She points out that, unlike the slow-building ice sheet in Greenland, if measures are taken to remove CO2 from the atmosphere in the future, the Arctic sea ice could make a comeback within a decade. Also read | Chum salmon are breeding in Arctic, and it is 'an ominous sign’ for humanity "Unlike the ice sheet in Greenland that took thousands of years to build, even if we melt all the Arctic sea ice, if we can then figure out how to take CO2 back out of the atmosphere in the future to reverse warming, sea ice will come back within a decade," Jahn was quoted as saying by The Guardian. (With inputs from agencies)

Arctic will go ice-fee in next few years, scientists predict

The Arctic might witness ice-free summer days as early as the next couple of years, a study revealed. According to the study published in the journal Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, the Arctic could see summer days without sea ice in the next 10 years, which is earlier than the previous projections.

The Arctic might witness ice-free summer days as early as the next couple of years, a study revealed. According to the study published in the journal Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, the Arctic could see summer days without sea ice in the next 10 years, which is earlier than the previous projections. By 2050, the Arctic might see an entire month without floating ice during September. It is a time of the year when the region's sea ice coverage is the least. However, by the end of the century, the ice-free period could last up to many months in a year, based on future emission scenarios. Researchers do not mean zero ice in the water when they say ice-free Arctic. They use the term when the ocean has less than a million square kilometres (386,000 square miles) of ice. In recent years, the Arctic Ocean has had around 3.3 million square kilometres of sea ice at its minimum in September. ALSO READ | Underwater curtains can save the 'Doomsday glacier'. But there is a massive price tag attached Alexandra Jahn, an associate professor of atmospheric and oceanic sciences and fellow at CU Boulder's Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research, analysed the previous studies on sea ice projections and sea ice coverage data from computational climate models. Using this data, they figured out how, in the future, the Arctic might change regularly. The team projected that under all emission scenarios, the Arctic Ocean could go ice-free for the first time in August or September between the 2020s and 2030s. "When it comes to communicating what scientists expect to happen in the Arctic, it is important to predict when we might observe the first ice-free conditions in the Arctic, which will show up in the daily satellite data," Jahn said. According to Jahn, the main contributor to sea ice depletion is greenhouse emissions. When the ice cover decreases, the amount of heat from sunlight absorbed by the sea increases, worsening the ice melt and warming the Arctic. However, future emission levels will decide how often the ice-free condition occurs, she added. However, the bright side is that the Arctic Ocean is resilient and can recover swiftly when the atmosphere cools down. "Unlike the ice sheet in Greenland that took thousands of years to build, even if we melt all the Arctic sea ice, if we can then figure out how to take CO2 back out of the atmosphere in the future to reverse warming, sea ice will come back within a decade," Jahn said. (With inputs from agencies)

Arctic Ocean could experience ‘ice-free’ summer days within the next decade, says study

A new study from the University of Colorado Boulder predicts the Arctic Ocean could be nearly ice-free by late summer in the 2020s or 2030s, even under the most optimistic scenarios for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This is 10 years earlier than previous models predicted.

The Arctic will be ice-free in only a few more years: Study

With Arctic sea ice shrinking from climate change, many polar bears have to shift their diets during parts of the summer. A study looking at Hudson bay polar bears suggests they are at risk of starvation.

Arctic Polar bears at risk of starvation, says study

In a new study, the scientists have issued a warning regarding how dangerous are the viruses which are buried under ice sheets in the Arctic permafrost and other places. &nbsp;

The scientists said that the melting Arctic permafrost is likely to release the 'zombie viruses' that can cause catastrophic global health emergencies, as per a report published in The Guardian. &nbsp;

The threat regarding the zombie virus has escalated because of rising temperatures due to global warming, which also resulted in the melting of the frozen ice.&nbsp;

Some of the samples retrieved from Siberian permafrost last year were used by scientists to better understand the risks related to these viruses. These viruses have remained frozen in the ground for thousands of years.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-experimenting-with-deadly-covid-like-virus-that-is-fatal-to-mice-report-680390">China experimenting with deadly Covid-like virus that could affect humans: Report</a>

Speaking to The Guardian, Geneticist Jean-Michel Claverie of Aix-Marseille University said, "At the moment, analyses of pandemic threats focus on diseases that might emerge in southern regions and then spread north. By contrast, little attention has been given to an outbreak that might emerge in the far north and then travel south - and that is an oversight, I believe. There are viruses up there that have the potential to infect humans and start a new disease outbreak."

<h2>Live viruses can infect single-celled creatures: Scientists</h2>

Meanwhile, scientist Marion Koopmans of the Erasmus Medical Centre in Rotterdam also agreed with the conclusions and said, "We don't know what viruses are lying out there in the permafrost but I think there is a real risk that there might be one capable of triggering a disease outbreak - say of an ancient form of polio. We have to assume that something like this could happen."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | China working on Wuhan virus 2.0?

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Although being buried for thousands of years in permafrost, live viruses can still infect single-celled creatures, as per the team of scientists headed by Claverie in Siberia in 2014. One of the virus samples collected dates back 48,500 years.

"The viruses we isolated were only able to infect amoebae and posed no risk to humans. However, that does not mean that other viruses - currently frozen in the permafrost - might not be able to trigger illnesses in humans. We have identified genomic traces of poxviruses and herpesviruses, which are well-known human pathogens, for example," Claverie said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a new study, the scientists have issued a warning regarding how dangerous are the viruses which are buried under ice sheets in the Arctic permafrost and other places.

In a new study, the scientists have issued a warning regarding how dangerous are the viruses which are buried under ice sheets in the Arctic permafrost and other places. The scientists said that the melting Arctic permafrost is likely to release the 'zombie viruses' that can cause catastrophic global health emergencies, as per a report published in The Guardian. The threat regarding the zombie virus has escalated because of rising temperatures due to global warming, which also resulted in the melting of the frozen ice. Some of the samples retrieved from Siberian permafrost last year were used by scientists to better understand the risks related to these viruses. These viruses have remained frozen in the ground for thousands of years. Also read: China experimenting with deadly Covid-like virus that could affect humans: Report Speaking to The Guardian, Geneticist Jean-Michel Claverie of Aix-Marseille University said, "At the moment, analyses of pandemic threats focus on diseases that might emerge in southern regions and then spread north. By contrast, little attention has been given to an outbreak that might emerge in the far north and then travel south - and that is an oversight, I believe. There are viruses up there that have the potential to infect humans and start a new disease outbreak." Live viruses can infect single-celled creatures: Scientists Meanwhile, scientist Marion Koopmans of the Erasmus Medical Centre in Rotterdam also agreed with the conclusions and said, "We don't know what viruses are lying out there in the permafrost but I think there is a real risk that there might be one capable of triggering a disease outbreak - say of an ancient form of polio. We have to assume that something like this could happen." Watch: Gravitas | China working on Wuhan virus 2.0? Although being buried for thousands of years in permafrost, live viruses can still infect single-celled creatures, as per the team of scientists headed by Claverie in Siberia in 2014. One of the virus samples collected dates back 48,500 years. "The viruses we isolated were only able to infect amoebae and posed no risk to humans. However, that does not mean that other viruses - currently frozen in the permafrost - might not be able to trigger illnesses in humans. We have identified genomic traces of poxviruses and herpesviruses, which are well-known human pathogens, for example," Claverie said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Zombie’ virus, after remaining frozen 48,500 years in Arctic, may cause a deadly pandemic, warn scientists

Images show breathtaking rainbow-coloured clouds spreading stunning colours in Arctic skies

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