What are the major rivers in Antarctica and their tributaries?

What are the major rivers in Antarctica and their tributaries?

Antarctica is a unique continent as it is mostly covered by ice and has limited surface water. However, there are a few major rivers and their tributaries that exist in this icy land. It is important to note that these rivers are relatively small and their flow is mainly influenced by the melting of ice and snow.

1. Onyx River: The Onyx River is the longest river in Antarctica, located in the McMurdo Dry Valleys region. It stretches for approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) and is fed by the melting of the Onyx Glacier. It has a few small tributaries, including the Cobblestone Creek and the Farnell Creek.

2. Taylor Valley Rivers: The Taylor Valley, also situated in the McMurdo Dry Valleys, is home to several rivers that contribute to the overall drainage system of the region. These rivers include the Miers, Garwood, and Wright rivers. They are primarily fed by the melting of glaciers and ice in the surrounding area.

3. Beardmore Glacier Rivers: The Beardmore Glacier, located in the Transantarctic Mountains, gives rise to a few rivers that flow into the Ross Ice Shelf. These rivers include the Mill, Darwin, and Debenham rivers. They are formed by the melting of ice and snow from the glacier.

4. Byrd Glacier Rivers: The Byrd Glacier, also situated in the Transantarctic Mountains, has a few rivers that drain into the Ross Ice Shelf. These rivers include the Reedy, Boyd, and Nimrod rivers. They are formed by the melting of ice and snow from the glacier.

5. Amundsen Glacier Rivers: The Amundsen Glacier, located in West Antarctica, gives rise to a few rivers that flow into the Amundsen Sea. These rivers include the Pine Island, Smith, and Pope rivers. They are primarily fed by the melting of ice and snow from the glacier.

It is important to note that these rivers and their tributaries are relatively small and their flow is highly dependent on the melting of ice and snow. They play a crucial role in the overall drainage system of Antarctica, contributing to the formation of lakes, ponds, and streams in the region.