* Glaciers are freshwater: They are formed from the accumulation and compaction of snow, which is essentially pure water.

* Freezing process: When water freezes, salt is excluded from the ice crystals. This leaves the surrounding water with a higher concentration of salt, leading to saltier ocean water.

* Melting and runoff: When glaciers melt, the freshwater runoff dilutes the surrounding seawater, lowering its salinity.

So, instead of higher salinity, the melting of glaciers near the poles contributes to lower salinity in the surrounding waters.

It's important to note that this is a general trend, and there are other factors that can affect salinity in specific areas. For example, ocean currents can transport salty water from other regions, and evaporation can increase salinity.