Breakthrough Season 1 Episode 14 The Eighth Continent: Zealandia

The Eighth Continent: Zealandia is the 14th episode of the first season of the show Breakthrough. The episode takes viewers on a journey to explore the newly-discovered continent of Zealandia, located in the South Pacific Ocean.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the idea of Zealandia being the eighth continent on Earth, following the seven continents that we are already familiar with. We learn about the years of research that have gone into discovering and understanding the continent, including satellite imagery and geological surveys.

The episode then takes us on a tour of Zealandia, highlighting its unique features and revealing how it was formed. We learn that Zealandia is largely submerged, with only a few islands, such as New Zealand, protruding above the water. This makes it difficult to study and has led to its status as a somewhat mysterious and understudied continent.

We also learn about the many species that call Zealandia home, including rare penguins, sea snakes, and deep-sea creatures. The episode emphasizes the importance of studying Zealandia as a way to better understand the planet and its history.

Throughout the episode, we hear from scientists who have dedicated their careers to studying Zealandia and uncovering its secrets. They explain how the continent could provide important clues to the history of the Earth's tectonic plates and how it may have played a role in the evolution of life on the planet.

The episode also touches on the impact of climate change on Zealandia and the unique challenges that the continent faces due to its location and underwater status. We learn about efforts to study the effects of rising sea levels and how these may impact the inhabitants of the continent.

Overall, The Eighth Continent: Zealandia provides a fascinating look at one of the least-known and most mysterious land masses on our planet. The episode offers a deeper understanding of the Earth's geological history and the rich diversity of life that exists on our planet. It also highlights the importance of ongoing research and exploration in uncovering the secrets of our world.