Conservationists utilize a newly developed map to safeguard the migrations of various species.
The world is home to an intricate web of life, with countless species traversing the Earth's vast oceans in their annual migrations. To better understand and protect these migratory routes, scientists at the University of Queensland's Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science have developed MiCO - Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean.
MiCO, a freely accessible tool, maps the movements of over 109 marine species, including birds, mammals, turtles, and fish. The map brings together thousands of records from over 1,300 sources, highlighting critical areas and revealing intricate ocean connections that transcend political boundaries.
Dr Lily Bentley, a researcher involved in the project, stated that MiCO covers 109 species and connects almost 2,000 crucial habitats. This global migration map has the potential to inform conservation policies such as the High Seas Treaty and the 30x30 initiative.
The High Seas Treaty is a proposed agreement aimed at safeguarding the high seas, while the 30x30 initiative is a global commitment to protect 30% of Earth's oceans and land by 2030, backed by over 120 nations. The High Seas Treaty and the 30x30 initiative involve multiple nations, primarily members of the United Nations and the International Seabed Authority, with significant involvement from European countries such as Germany, France, Spain, and others within the European Union.
However, disjointed policy means that animals protected in the waters of one nation might be hunted off the coast of another when they travel to feed and breed. MiCO's revelation of these interconnected habitats emphasizes the importance of cross-boundary cooperation in conservation efforts.
Positive News, a not-for-profit media organization that focuses on solutions journalism, is another player in this global effort. The organization relies on financial backing from its readers to continue its operations. Contributions to Positive News directly fund the production and sharing of its stories, helping to spread awareness about initiatives like MiCO and the 30x30 initiative.
Sadly, almost half of the planet's migratory animal populations are in decline, according to research by the United Nations. The hope is that with tools like MiCO and the collective efforts of nations and organizations, we can protect these migratory routes and ensure the survival of these incredible species for generations to come.
