Onyx River

Onyx River Facts

• Perhaps most notably, despite its common name, the Onyx River, though amazing, does not actually qualify as a true river. In point of fact, the quite remarkable manifestation of geology actually represents a feature technically known as a meltwater stream.
• Unfortunately for those who might wish to view it, this site’s located in a remote portion of the world. As a result of that remoteness, few humans ever have the chance to see it. That’s a shame, because it’s special for a very particular reason.
• That statement holds true due to one startling fact. No true rivers exist anywhere on the entire continent. Its geological uniqueness, though, along with that of other meltwater streams in Antarctica, makes these rare occurrences qualify as rivers.
• The small but lovely Onyx River remains by far the largest of the nine semi-permanent meltwater streams present on the remote continent, however. The fabulous and intriguing site also serves as the most ecologically important of the nine.
• Unfortunately, all of them appear only during the few short months of the local summer season, making for short-lived viewing opportunities. Although the incredible body of water remains considered a river, albeit a small one, no fish live in its waters.
• Regardless of this fact, its waters do hold yet another surprise for us. Its water supports a remarkably diverse assortment of microscopic life. Indeed, the fascinating algae blooms that often form within its waters can sometimes be quite extensive.

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Onyx River Physical Description

Given its highly unique nature, the physical characteristics of the Onyx River naturally vary. When present, the small body of water flows westward through the Wright Valley. It also originates from the melting water of the Wright Lower Glacier, itself an astounding location.

It also conceals another surprising fact. Interestingly, this beautiful yet freezing flow of meltwater does not flow into the ocean. The small flow is an excellent example of what is popularly known as endorheic drainage. This means it has no natural outflow to the ocean.

Along with numerous other factors, the dimensions of this marvel of Nature vary from season to season. Some measurements nonetheless remain roughly the same during the time it does appear. The total length of the river measures about  20 mi (32 km).

Winding along its course, the deceptively-named flow creates other marvels. That’s because it forms several smaller, equally fascinating tributaries. When it does make its appearances, the final destination of the Onyx River remains the body of water known as Lake Vanda.

Multiple monitoring stations currently exist along its winding length. These serve the purpose of studying and monitoring its impact on the surrounding environment. Some seasons, however, the flow of water evaporates before it reaches the frigid lake.

Onyx River Location, Monitoring, and Importance

The remarkable Onyx River, despite its high degree of variability, in fact serves as one of the most interesting features in its area. As difficult as it may be to imagine, this true marvel of Nature appears in what may rightfully be considered the least likely location.

That’s because it formed on the continent of Antarctica. Not surprisingly, the wonder of Nature also constitutes a region of ongoing scientific interest. Due to this fact, the river serves as one of the many sites presently experiencing scientific investigation.

In its case, that’s conducted by the United States  Antarctic Program of the National Science Foundation. This program continues to be ongoing at this time. The Antarctica New Zealand program also previously maintained a semi-permanent camp at Lake Vanda.

This camp, however, has since been removed. A small research shelter still exists at Lake Vanda at its eastern end, though. Nearby currently sits the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty seismic station at Bull Pass. Other scientific sites may be added in the future.

The importance of this highly unique flow should not be underestimated by anyone, professional researcher or otherwise. That holds true due to the fact that the unique brine flow of the Onyx River has an important ecological impact on the surrounding area.

In addition to the microscopic life in its waters, a few other small species also exist in it. These include several nematodes. Gulls also sometimes make an appearance. Many countries therefore believe that monitoring the site remains of great importance. 

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