Description: The SEECTOR project was designed to enhance comprehension and conservation efforts of Southern Ocean pelagic ecosystems amidst projected climate shifts. Employing acoustic measurements, zooplankton sampling, and animal tagging, it delineated critical habitats and predator interactions within the South Indian Ocean, refining hotspot zoning to prevent conflicts with other activities. These findings facilitated the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs) in Crozet and Kerguelen Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and international waters while proposing strategies to mitigate anthropogenic and climate-induced pressures. This initiative addressed gaps in understanding regarding the pelagic habitats of mid-trophic organisms and their trophic interactions with top predators, particularly pertinent in the face of climate change. Achievements encompassed the delineation of pelagic MPAs, the proposal of hotspots, and the mitigation of environmental pressures, concurrently fostering a strengthened partnership with the Natural Reserve and the establishment of a centre of excellence for open ocean ecological research. Ultimately, SEECTOR significantly advanced insights into the dynamics of pelagic ecosystems, a critical departure from the more static coastal areas.
Duration: 16 months
