【特稿】研究：南极地区海底甲烷渗出速度惊人

Core Insights - A recent study published in the journal Nature Communications reveals that methane is leaking from the seabed in Antarctica at an alarming rate, with over 40 new methane seep points discovered in the Ross Sea region [1][2] - The research team, comprising members from various institutions, utilized acoustic sensors and remote vehicles to sample depths ranging from 5 to 240 meters, indicating a fundamental change in methane release mechanisms in the area [1] Group 1: Methane Emissions - Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has been found to be released from the seabed, potentially exacerbating global warming trends, as it absorbs heat at approximately 80 times the rate of carbon dioxide in the first 20 years after entering the atmosphere [2] - The study highlights that the previously rare occurrence of methane seepage in Antarctica is now becoming more common, raising concerns about its implications for climate change models [2] Group 2: Research Implications - Researchers plan to return to Antarctica for further investigation to assess the relationship between the increased methane seepage and climate change, as well as its impact on marine life [2] - The study also notes a significant increase in atmospheric methane levels over the past decade, with a persistent gap between measured increases and known methane sources, indicating an unknown factor contributing to this rise [2]