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Limited information is available on species diversity and the condition of coastal and marine ecosystems (Burke et al., 2001). There is growing evidence that many marine species are less widely distributed, and therefore more vulnerable to extinction, than previously thought (GESAMP, 2001a).The protection and sustainable use of marine resources and biodiversity are governed by several international conventions, including the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). |
In this framework, sustainable use is defined as "the use of components of biological diversity in a way and at a rate that does not lead to the long-term decline of biological diversity, thereby maintaining its potential to meet the needs and aspirations of present and future generations" (CBD, 2001). |
| Marine Species Population Index |
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Between 1970 and 1999, the Marine Species Population Index recorded a decline of about 35%.
The Marine Species Population Index provides an assessment of the average change over time in the populations of 217 species of marine mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. The index represents the average value of six regional ocean indices. More pronounced declines are seen in the southern oceans, which is attributed to the fact that major losses and degradation of marine ecosystems in the industrialised world took place prior to 1970. Marine species are generally more difficult to monitor than terrestrial ones. Assessments are therefore based primarily on fishery catches, and the monitoring of land breeding species (e.g. turtles, birds and seals). However, these species are over-represented in the index, which should have a far greater proportion of invertebrate species. Source: Loh, 2000. |
