News release

From: James Cook University

These actions would stave off an otherwise high likelihood of ecosystem collapse in the region, according to the study led by researchers from Securing Antarctica’s Environmental Future (SAEF).

Dr Sally Lau is a SAEF Research Fellow from James Cook University.

She said the Southern Ocean is one of the fastest changing regions on Earth and its seafloor ecosystems are under increasing pressure from climate change and other environmental stressors.

“MPAs are one of the most effective tools we have to protect these ecosystems and this research allows us to offer recommendations based on genetic knowledge to help prioritise where protection will have the greatest impact,” Dr Lau said.

For the first time, scientists synthesised data from Southern Ocean seafloor species to identify hotspots of genetic diversity that should be prioritised for conservation.

“We drew on genetic data from a wide range of seafloor species, including octopus, sea spiders and urchins, to map areas of high genetic diversity, connectivity and divergence across the Southern Ocean,” Dr Lau said.

“Ecosystems with high genetic diversity are more resilient and better able to adapt to climate and environmental change.”

The team assessed how existing and proposed MPAs cover these areas.

“Only about 28% of all identified genetic hotspots are currently protected by MPAs. Maintaining established MPAs and adopting proposed MPAs would protect about 54% of all hotspots,” Dr Lau said.

“The Southern Ocean is likely to face a high risk of ecosystem failure unless this kind of action is taken to ensure ecosystem resilience.”

SAEF Investigator Dr Nerida Wilson from The University of Western Australia and the Western Australian Museum said the study was only possible because of decades of international investment in collaborative Antarctic research.

“Much of the genetic data used in this study was generated through major international initiatives, demonstrating the value of sustained international investment and collaboration,” Dr Wilson said.

She said it is critical to ensure Antarctic samples are curated in museum infrastructure that will protect them for long term future use.

“These samples are irreplaceable and will continue to inform us about past and future changes.”