Combining a cumulative risk index and species distribution data to identify priority areas for marine biodiversity conservation in the Black Sea. (1st November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Almpanidou, Vasiliki; Doxa, Aggeliki; Mazaris, Antonios D.
• Is Part Of: Ocean & coastal management. Volume 213(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-11-01
• Subjects: Cumulative impact assessment -- IUCN species -- Marine biodiversity -- Marine spatial planning -- Transboundary conservation; Marine resources -- Management -- Periodicals; Coastal zone management -- Periodicals; Coastal ecology -- Periodicals; Ressources marines -- Périodiques; Littoral -- Aménagement -- Périodiques; Écologie littorale -- Périodiques; Coastal ecology; Coastal zone management; Marine resources -- Management; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 551.46
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2021.105877
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0964-5691

Abstract

Abstract: The Black Sea remains one of the most fragile marine systems globally. The six countries that share the coastline of this semi-enclosed sea have declared, through the Convention on Biological Diversity and regional conventions, their intention to conserve biodiversity and increase the coverage of the protected areas. However, currently only a small proportion of the marine area is under protection. Here, we spatially delineated priority conservation sites that could ensure species protection under the impact of different threats. We developed a cumulative risk index, incorporating anthropogenic pressures related to pollution and fisheries. We then combined this information with distribution data of marine species to apply a systematic conservation planning approach. We identified eleven key areas that cover 10% of the Black Sea, the protection of which could attain realistic conservation targets. These sites are mainly located in neritic and coastal habitats, which also host a number of species that avoid the anoxic part of the ocean basin. The management and efficient protection of these key areas require international collaboration, representing the only way to alleviate the severe degradation of this sensitive, but valuable, marine system. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: We combined a cumulative risk index with species range data to identify key sites. High-risk and marine biodiversity hotspots were mainly found in the neritic zone. Eleven conservation priority areas were identified across the Black Sea. Transboundary conservation efforts are vital to protect Black Sea marine biodiversity.