Scientific background document in support of the development of a CCAMLR MPA in the Weddell Sea (Antarctica) – Version 2017 – Reflection of the recommendations by WG-EMM-16 and SC-CAMLR-XXXV

The CAMLR Scientific Committee in 2016 reviewed three scientific background documents in support of the development of a CCAMLR MPA in the Weddell Sea. Germany was asked to carry out further work, in particular regarding the issues and questions raised at WG-EMM-16 and SC-CAMLR-XXXV.

Here, the authors intend to update the CCAMLR Working Groups on the current state of the work carried out during the 2016/2017 intersessional period. Chapter 1 of this working group paper informs on the new data retrieval process. Chapter 2 presents the updated analyses of relevant data layers, including an update on the Antarctic toothfish habitat model. Chapter 3 provides a sensitivity analysis of the level of protection for Antarctic toothfish and other demersal fish that explores a range of protection-level scenarios. In this context, we show how the cost layer works. Subsequently, a revised Marxan approach based on the updated data layer is shown. In Chapter 4 we outline the way we transferred the results of the scientific analyses into the WSMPA borders and management zones.