Top Conservation Areas Identified as Antarctic Activities Rise

A research team from the University of Colorado Boulder has identified 30 new vital zones for biodiversity conservation in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica. Published on August 15 in the journal Conservation Biology, their study highlights the need for increased protection to prevent significant declines in native wildlife due to human activities.

Cassandra Brooks, senior author and associate professor in the Department of Environmental Studies at CU Boulder, stated, “The Southern Ocean is home to many unique species that play crucial roles in its ecosystem. Despite its remote location, the health of this region is essential for global environmental systems.”

The Southern Ocean, which includes species like Adélie penguins, Weddell seals, and humpback whales, has been relatively shielded from human impacts due to its isolation and extreme conditions. This has helped preserve its rich biodiversity, making it an exception in a world facing mass extinction.

As climate change leads to the melting of sea ice, there has been a rise in fishing and tourism in the region. These activities not only compete with wildlife for resources but also bring in invasive species and diseases that local species are poorly adapted to handle.

Becker, Brooks, and their team sought to pinpoint Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in the Southern Ocean that are essential for the survival of various species. They used tracking data from 13 seabirds and seals, such as Adélie penguins, sooty albatrosses, and southern elephant seals, to identify 30 KBAs crucial for foraging, breeding, and migration.

Previous conservation efforts often aggregated species into a single dataset, which could overlook specific needs of certain species. For instance, the team discovered significant foraging grounds near Amanda Bay in East Antarctica for emperor penguins and key sites near Campbell Island for the endangered gray-headed albatross. These critical areas had not been flagged by other conservation designations.

Becker explained, “Our study bridges the gap between general conservation efforts and the specific requirements of individual species, providing an essential layer of detail.” The researchers hope their findings will inform international and national conservation policies, including potential restrictions on fishing and tourism.

Brooks highlighted the Southern Ocean's role in climate regulation, noting it absorbs 40% of global carbon dioxide and 60–90% of excess heat from climate change. “What happens in Antarctica has far-reaching effects,” Brooks said. “Protecting this region is crucial for ensuring a more sustainable and livable planet for all.”