Krill
Definition
Krill are small, shrimp-like crustaceans (order Euphausiacea) that form the dietary backbone of many penguin species, particularly in Antarctic and sub-Antarctic waters. Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) alone is estimated to have a biomass of 300-500 million tonnes, making it one of the most abundant animal species on Earth. Penguins like Adelies, chinstraps, and macaronis rely on krill for the majority of their caloric intake. Declines in krill abundance due to warming waters and sea-ice loss directly threaten these penguin populations.
Related Terms
Upwelling is an oceanographic process in which cold, nutrient-rich water rises from the deep ocean to the surface, typically driven by wind patterns or the shape of the coastline.
Fast ice is sea ice that is anchored ("fastened") to the coastline, ice shelves, or the sea floor and does not move with winds or currents.
Pelagic refers to the open ocean environment, far from shore and the sea floor.
Related Species
Species where krill is especially relevant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does krill mean in penguin biology?
Krill are small, shrimp-like crustaceans (order Euphausiacea) that form the dietary backbone of many penguin species, particularly in Antarctic and sub-Antarctic waters. Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) alone is estimated to have a biomass of 300-500 million tonnes, making it one of the most abundant animal species on Earth. Penguins like Adelies, chinstraps, and macaronis rely on krill for the majority of their caloric intake. Declines in krill abundance due to warming waters and sea-ice loss directly threaten these penguin populations.