The Rich Feeding Grounds of the Southern Ocean
In The Rich Feeding Grounds of the Southern Ocean, explore life in the incredible ecosystem of the Southern Ocean. Life flourishes there despite the harsh conditions. Humpback whales use ingenious hunting techniques to feast on krill, the most abundant animal species on Earth. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Seven Worlds, One Planet, a series featuring remarkable animal behavior from all seven continents.
Lesson Express
Q: What makes the Southern Ocean such a rich feeding ground?
A: The strong currents that were formed when the continent broke away from South America continue to sweep up nutrients from the depths of the sea.
Q: How do humpback whales trap krill?
A: The whales work together and use bubble net feeding to trap the krill. They blow bubbles and swim in upward spirals to drive the krill to the surface.
Q: Why is the abundant summer feeding so important for the whales?
A: The whales are able to put on the reserves they need for the rest of the year during the summer.
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