Antarktiszon

Antarktiszon is a term used to describe a polar climatic-ecological zone surrounding the Antarctic region. In its most general sense, the term refers to the ensemble of atmospheric and oceanic conditions, sea-ice regimes, and terrestrial and marine ecosystems that are centered on or influenced by the Antarctic continent and the Southern Ocean.

Boundaries of the Antarktiszon are not fixed. Some definitions place it within the winter sea-ice extent around the Antarctic coastline, others extend into subantarctic waters where circumpolar currents and upwelling modify conditions. The central feature is the Antarctic Circumpolar Current which helps maintain cold surface waters and limits heat exchange with lower latitudes.

The climate of the Antarktiszon is characterized by long, cold winters, low precipitation in inland regions, and extensive seasonal sea ice, though climate change is reducing ice in some areas. The zone supports specialized ecosystems, including krill, penguins, seals, and abundant seabirds, many adapted to sea-ice dynamics.

Humans have no permanent settlements within the Antarktiszon; research stations study climate, ice dynamics, and biology. The concept is used in climate modelling and education to discuss polar processes and their global links.

Academic discussions emphasize that the Antarktiszon is a conceptual framework rather than a strictly defined geographic region. It helps organize data on sea-ice variability, oceanographic stratification, and biogeography in and around Antarctica.