Here’s an unexpected find – an ancient island 31 kilometres south-west of the
Icelandic mainland, with a diverse ecosystem and evidently millions of years old.
Just kidding.....Surtsey Island has its 51st birthday today!
Who said they’re not making any more real estate?
This is Surtsey being born by volcanic eruption on 15 November, 1963, or as
some imagine – Surtur the mythological god of fire breathes out a brand new
island.
Despite being protected by restricted access from outside interference, Surtsey Island has quickly acquired a diverse ecosystem of over 60 plant species, at least 12 bird species, seals, spiders, insects, worms…..
No....Surtsey is not so old after all.
Acknowledgements: wikipedia.com
Photo credits:
Surtsey now / geology.rockbandit.net
Surtsey born / en.wikipedia.org
Birdlife / vulkaner.no
Photo credits:
Surtsey now / geology.rockbandit.net
Surtsey born / en.wikipedia.org
Birdlife / vulkaner.no
The birth of a volcanic island has happened before but this time scientists can carefully monitor the development of an eco-system - that's not meant to establish so quickly. Looks can be deceiving so perhaps one day near Sydney we'll 'gerni' some 'ancient' Hawksbury sandstone.....to look its real age!
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