More Than 200 Scientists From 19 Countries Warn: the Southern Ocean Is In Trouble

Subject :Geography

SECTION: Physical Geography

Context:

Since 2016, The annual extent of winter sea ice has stopped increasing in Antarctica.

Details:

First marine ecosystem assessment for the Southern Ocean was produced in 2018.
This report can be used to guide decision-making for the protection and conservation of Antarctica and the diversity of life it contains.

Why should we care about sea ice?

It is the foundation for Antarctic marine ecosystems, and its reduction can impact the wildlife of the southern ocean that consists of krill, emperor penguins and whales.
Other wildlife found in the southern ocean: Skuas, petrels, leopard seals, Weddell seals, minke whales, and blue whales.
Sea ice provides: food and safe-keeping to young Antarctic krill and small fish, seeds the expansive growth of phytoplankton in spring, breeding ground for penguins, nourishing the entire food web.

Report findings:

Southern Ocean habitats, from the ice at the surface to the bottom of the deep sea, are changing.
The warming of the ocean, decline in sea ice, melting of glaciers, collapse of ice shelves, changes in acidity, and direct human activities such as fishing, are all impacting different parts of the ocean and their inhabitants.
Climate change is the most significant driver of this change.

Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR):

Formed in 20 May 1980
It is the international body responsible for the conservation of marine ecosystems in the Southern Ocean, with membership of 26 nations and the European Union. India is also a member.
Latest meeting will be held in Hobart (Capital of Tasmania), Australia.
It is a part of the Antarctic Treaty System.
Headquartered in Hobart, Australia.
In 1989, CCAMLR set up the Ecosystem Monitoring Program (CEMP) to further monitor the effects of fishing and harvesting of species in the area.
In 2022, Ecuador became the 26th Member of the Commission.

Source: The Wire