Even though a single penguin can consume thousands of krill in one meal, groups of these tiny sea creatures can sense disturbances in the water before it’s feeding time. And the telltale sign? Bird droppings.
Researchers at the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences have theorized that penguin guano (poop) can influence the behavior of Antarctic krill. Their study, published on March 20 in Frontiers in Marine Science, revealed that even a small amount of penguin poop can trigger significant changes in the movements of these tiny sea creatures.
Nicole Hellessey, a corresponding author and postdoctoral researcher, explained, “Here we show for the first time that a small amount of penguin guano causes a sudden change in the feeding and swimming behaviors of Antarctic krill.”
To test how krill react to the chemical signals of nearby penguins, Hellessey and her team conducted experiments at Palmer Station on Antarctica’s Anvers Island. They observed that the presence of penguin guano altered the swimming patterns of krill, making them swim faster and in different directions than usual.
The researchers also noted that krill consumed significantly less algae when they sensed the presence of penguins nearby, indicating that they prioritize evasive actions over feeding in such situations.
According to Hellessey, this defensive response is likely not limited to penguins, as other Antarctic predators may elicit similar reactions from krill. However, as climate change continues to impact ocean ecosystems, the ability of krill to detect danger may be compromised.
While the specific chemicals in penguin guano that trigger these reactions in krill remain unknown, the researchers emphasize the importance of understanding how environmental changes could affect the behavior of these crucial species in the Southern Ocean.
In conclusion, dealing with penguin poop may not be a pleasant experience, as Hellessey noted, “Smells like rotten shellfish. Not pleasant to handle.”
