Moscow [Russia], July 30 (HBTV): Russian scientists have uncovered ancient whale skeletons on Wilczek Island, part of the Franz Josef Land archipelago in the Arctic, as retreating glaciers continue to reveal long-hidden terrain.

The discovery was made by researchers from the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute (AARI), who are studying changes in permafrost and glacial structures caused by shifting climate conditions. As the island’s glacier recedes, previously ice-covered areas are emerging, including marine terraces now exposed for the first time in centuries.

According to TV BRICS, 'Russian scientists discover ancient whale remains beneath a retreating glacier. This newly revealed area contains numerous well-preserved whale skeletons, some partially thawing at the glacier's edge.'

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation reported that the glacial dome on Wilczek Island has split into two distinct parts over the last two decades. This significant retreat has uncovered several square kilometres of marine terrain once buried beneath the ice.

Nikita Demidov, a researcher at AARI, stated that satellite imagery and on-site measurements confirmed the rapid glacial changes. The whale remains discovered near the edge of the glacier are exceptionally well-preserved, thanks to prolonged freezing within the permafrost that prevented natural decay.

The density and condition of the skeletons suggest a sudden environmental event, likely a rapid sea-level rise that occurred in the High Arctic several thousand years ago. Scientists believe this points to a dramatic climate shift that had significant effects on marine life in the region.

The findings are expected to provide vital data on ancient climatic and ecological conditions in Eurasia’s northernmost zones. Researchers say the discovery sheds light not only on the Arctic’s prehistoric marine ecosystems but also on how past climate events mirror ongoing environmental transformations.

(ANI)