The objective of the project is to study the presence and distribution of anthropogenic organic contaminants in different Antarctic environmental compartments, as well as their possible degradation by Antarctic bacteria and microorganisms.

Our colleague Dr. Juan Muñoz-Arnanz sends us these impressive photos of the natural environment of Antarctica, with views from both sea and land.

It is evident that the opportunity to conduct scientific research in such an environment is a unique one. Among many other activities, air samples have been collected at Mount Reina Sofia, the mostly ice-free peak rising to 275 meters on Hurd Peninsula, Livingston Island in the South Shetland Islands (left). Samples of sea-surface microlayer have also been collected, where the degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by bacteria was previously observed (see publication: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2022.907265) (center). Additionally, various samples of amphipods, krill, and other animal species present in this magnificent natural environment have been collected (right).

If you're curious to learn more about this fabulous experience, you can follow the PANTOC project on their Instagram account @pantoc_project. Their posts are sure to captivate you!