An investigation into the collapse of the Antarctic Larsen B Ice Shelf has revealed ecosystems previously unknown to the world.  These ecosystems have most likely been isolated for about 10,000 years, during which the 600 foot shelf remained stable.  Eugene Domack, who led the investigation, believes that methane gas has been fueling life beneath the some 2,800 feet of ice.  Domack warns that the collapse of the ice shelf may have disrupted and could possibly destroy the recently-discovered ecosystem.
Larson B ice-shelf collapse reveals exotic organisms isolated for 10,000 years/Brief