Combined Application of Biophysical Habitat Mapping and Systematic Conservation Planning in the North-east Atlantic

• Main Author: Evans, Jon
• Other Authors: Faculty of Science and Technology
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Plymouth University 2012
• Subjects: North East Atlantic
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10026.2/1717

The remoteness and inaccessibility of the deep-sea has protected it from exploitation in the past; but has also severely limited research. There is increasing evidence that human activities are causing serious damage in the ‘high seas’ or Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ). Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are an increasingly important and powerful spatial management tool that can enable the efficient protection of marine diversity. In an effort to improve the process of designing and implementing MPAs there is a growing body of literature devoted to developing and improving techniques that assist decision makers in this process. Due to the paucity of information regarding ABNJ biophysical surrogates are being used to create habitat classification maps that can inform stakeholders on the distribution of biodiversity. These maps can then be used alongside systematic marine conservation tools to provide potential MPA network portfolios in the smallest area, for the least cost. Systematic conservation planning allows MPA networks to be designed that follow specific scientific criteria. These portfolios can then be used as a foundation for discussions with stakeholders and relevant organisations. These techniques were tested using an area of the North-east Atlantic, which is becoming heavily impacted by human activities and already has the OSPAR network of MPAs in ABNJ. A relevant biophysical habitat classification map was created and using systematic conservation software (Marxan) various portfolios of MPA networks were produced and compared to the current OSPAR network. This example acts as a basis for the design and implementation of future MPA networks, and outlines potential areas of improvements. If such techniques can be coupled with marine spatial planning, efficient MPA design could develop MPA networks in ABNJ before the deep-sea marine environment is heavily damaged.