seriinjääki

seriinjääki is a Finnish term that translates to "seal ice" or "seal's ice." It refers to ice that has been formed by or is associated with seals, particularly ringed seals (Pusa hispida), which are common in the Baltic Sea and Arctic regions. This type of ice is crucial for the survival of these seals, as they use it for breeding, resting, and protection from predators. Ringed seals dig lairs or birth chambers within snowdrifts that accumulate on top of the ice. These lairs provide a stable environment for pupping and nursing their young, shielding them from harsh weather conditions and predators like foxes and polar bears. The presence and stability of seriinjääki are therefore indicators of healthy seal populations and suitable breeding conditions. Changes in sea ice extent and thickness, often linked to climate change, can significantly impact the availability of suitable seriinjääki, posing a threat to the long-term survival of ringed seal populations. Researchers monitor seriinjääki to assess the health of these ecosystems and understand the impacts of environmental changes.