Southeast Indian Ocean (244–675 CE): Ecological Consolidation…

Southeast Indian Ocean (244–675 CE): Ecological Consolidation

Geographic & Environmental Context

The subregion of Southeast Indian Ocean includes Kerguelen east of 70°E and Heard Island and McDonald Islands. Eastern Kerguelen’s basaltic highlands and fjord systems defined the landscape, while Heard Island’s Big Ben retained summit ice and coastal glaciers. The McDonald Islands persisted as small, volcanically active islets buffeted by constant seas.

Anchors

• Kelp-rich coasts
• Seal rookeries
• Peatland basins
• Heard coastal margins

Climate & Environmental Conditions

Glacier retreat and advance remained modest, while ecological communities expanded and stabilized across coastal environments.

Ecological Setting

Peatlands thickened, vegetation mosaics broadened, and seal and seabird colonies became enduring landscape features.