Scientific rationale for the proposed CIESM Pelagian Sea Marine Peace Park

Abstract

The geological, oceanographic, and biological characteristics suggest that the marine zone within the oval illustrated on the satellite and geological maps (Fig. 1), referred to as the Pelagian Sea, would benefit from conservation actions that should be achieved through collaborative efforts in research, monitoring and effective management (Gacic, this volume; Greenpeace, 2009; Mascle, this volume; Vella, 1998; 2000; 2001; 2002; 2005; 2008; 2009; 201 0a,b). The following highlights some aspects of the region, and provides a base line on which to develop further research collaboration and knowledge exchange toward the conservation needs of the area. Topographic features of biological importance in this region include: seamounts, volcanic islands and submerged volcanoes, slow-flux seeps, and pockmarks (Mascle, this volume). Shallow, offshore banks found in this region are also important for marine biodiversity. From the oceanographic view point this zone is considered a choke point where the surface Atlantic Water enters in eastern basin and the Levantine intermediate waters flows into the western basin (Gacic, this volume); the area is also characterised by several mesoscale features (upwelling, filaments, and meanders) that play an important role in the biogeochemistry dynamics of the Sicily Strait and surrounding area. Greenpeace published a proposal for a regional network of large-scale marine reserves with the aim of protecting the full spectrum of life in the Mediterranean (Greenpeace, 2006; 2009). The Sicilian Straits Channel was identified as one of the areas to be protected within the network. The network was drawn up with the help of experts and used a variety of data sets including distribution of species, areas important for key life stages e.g. spawning grounds, important habitats such as seamounts, and sites previously identified as priority sites for protection, such as Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMis) (Greenpeace, 2009). In the context of Ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas (EBSA) the Pelagian Sea offers various scientific criteria, and protocols for conservation and management measures, including the establishment of representative networks of marine protected areas in accordance with international law (Convention on Biological Diversity Decision IX/20). All the seven CBD EBSA criteria adopted are relevant in this area.