Scientists have discovered special life forms thriving under Arctic sea ice. Until now, their presence in these dark and frigid conditions wasn't thought possible, and the findings could have global implications for the climate.

Nitrogen gas makes up roughly 78 percent of Earth's atmosphere , and all organisms require it to survive, yet most can't use the element unless it's first converted to ammonia or ammonium.

Microbes that can grab nitrogen from the air are called nitrogen-fixers, and they provide a foundational resource for entire ecosystems. Historically, scientists believed that in oceans, these were exclusive to warm, tropical waters.

Now, we know better.

"It was believed that nitrogen fixation could not take place under the sea ice because it was assumed that the living con

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