CNN —Rivers and streams in Alaska are changing color – from a clean, clear blue to a rusty orange – because of the toxic metals released by thawing permafrost, according to a new study. Ken Hill/National Park ServiceArctic soils naturally contain organic carbon, nutrients and metals, such as mercury, within their permafrost, the study says. “It’s really an unexpected consequence of climate change.”Researchers used satellite imagery to determine when the change in color happened at different rivers and streams. In Alaska’s Arctic rivers alone reside a variety of fish that are “critical for subsistence, sport, and commercial fisheries,” researchers wrote. Poulin said local communities voiced their concerns and observations to study researchers beginning seven years ago.

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