William Detrich’s pioneering research on the Antarctic icefish was among the first efforts to reveal how certain DNA features enable some creatures to adapt to extreme environmental conditions. As climate change accelerates extinctions, that genetic advantage of certain species is of great interest. Relatively few creatures have that endowment. Dr. Detrich explains what the genetic advantage is, how it works, and what species seem to be predisposed to successful adaptation in extreme conditions. In recognition of his outstanding discoveries, an Antarctic island near Palmer Station has been named Detrich Island in his honor.