The University of Barcelona is leading an international project aimed at optimally managing marine benthic biodiversity in Antarctica and tackling the challenges posed by global climate change. This initiative has received the support of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which has included it as one of the Decade Actions for ocean protection at a global level.
The project, Managing Biodiversity in Antarctic Marine Benthos ( MANTBEN ), is led by Conxita Àvila, a professor at the Faculty of Biology and a member of the Biodiversity Research Institute ( IRBio ). It aims to carry out a range of initiatives up to 2030 - including Antarctic expeditions - to help manage and conserve the Antarctic seabed.
Global change is having a significant impact on Antarctic benthic ecosystems (seabed ecosystems) as a result of rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification and pollution, among other factors. This is leading to increased animal mortality, the emergence of potentially invasive species and the spread of disease.
"Antarctica plays a vital role in the functioning of the planet. In addition to helping regulate the global climate and ocean systems, the Southern Ocean is home to exceptional and unique biodiversity," says Conxita Àvila. "However, we still lack an in-depth understanding of the vulnerabilities of Antarctic benthic communities. And this is precisely what this project aims to address: to generate the knowledge needed to improve the management of these threatened ecosystems and raise public awareness of their importance. In this regard, UNESCO's support is crucial," adds the researcher.
