Building baseline knowledge of mesophotic ecosystems in Ascension Island MPA
Key Facts
FUNDING SCHEME Darwin Plus Main
VALUE £375,153
WHERE Ascension Island
Summary
Ascension Island Government aspires to deliver ecosystem-scale, evidence-based management. However, the biodiversity and physical environment beyond diver depths (>99% of the MPA) is poorly understood, compromising efforts to effectively manage fisheries, quantify carbon sequestration and assess threats. This project aims to provide baseline knowledge of mesophotic ecosystems (30-300 m), thus improving their conservation, including incorporation of predicted climate-change induced shifts in their distribution into management plans. The emphasis on training will also build on-island capacity for long-term monitoring and management.
Darwin Initiative Round 32 is now open for applications! A new round of funding to support ambitious projects delivering impact for biodiversity and communities.
From scaling successful approaches to strengthening locally led conservation, explore key lessons shared by projects working on the front line of biodiversity action.
