Hidden between the ice and snow of Antarctica is a world unlike any other. Bitter cold, scarce resources, and six months without sunlight a year make this frozen landscape virtually uninhabitable for people. Yes these harsh conditions have created a unique and fascinating world of unusual plants and curious animals, mostly amphibians.A keen observer will find forests filled with 50-foot algae, sea spiders, coral, multicolored sea stars, and giant predatory worms,providing nourishment for fearless predators - from leopard seals to giant squid. Now, as temperatures rise,hardy species from warmer climates are making Antarctica their home, and destroying this fragile terrain. In a closely observed account, leading marine ecologist James McClintockgives us an unprecedented look at the ravages of the polar environment. From the demise of ice-dependant species to ocean acidification, this is a highly original and distinctive look at a world that we're losing.