Associate Professor Sequeira was recognized as a recipient of the 2024 Australian Academy of Science Honorific Awards for her exceptional contributions to marine biology. Her research focuses on large marine creatures such as the whale shark, and she has made notable discoveries about their global distributions.
in addition to her academic achievements, she is also the founder and research director of MegaMove, a global scientific project launched in 2020.
“MegaMove brings together an international network of researchers to conduct innovative studies that advance the conservation efforts for marine megafauna,” she explained.
According to Associate Professor Sequeira, their research has shown that protected areas alone are not enough to conserve these species.Implementing mitigation strategies such as changing fishing gear, using different lights in nets, and implementing traffic schemes for ships will be crucial in reducing human pressure on these animals.
Dr Jorge Rodríguez from Instituto de Física Interdisciplinar y Sistemas Complejos and co-lead author of the study added, ”Our analysis identifies key areas used by marine megafauna species as residencies or migratory corridors. We ranked these areas based on the number of species that use them for important behaviors.”
Tho, even if 30% of the ocean is designated as protected areas in these key locations, it may not be enough to conserve these animals, according to Associate Professor Sequeira.
The findings of this research have been published in Science.
FOR INTERVIEW:
Associate Professor Ana Sequeira
Research School of Biology
ANU College of Science and Medicine
E: Ana.Sequeira@anu.edu.au
M: +61 430 072 253
FOR MEDIA ASSISTANCE:
rebeka Selmeczki on +61 497 024 065 or ANU Media on +61 2 6125 7979 or at media@anu.edu.au
New strategies Needed for Marine Megafauna Conservation
The Australian Academy of Science has recognized Associate Professor Ana Sequeira for her groundbreaking work in marine biology. Her research focuses on large marine creatures such as the whale shark, and she has made significant discoveries about their global distributions.
In addition to her academic achievements, Associate Professor Sequeira is also the founder and research director of MegaMove, a global scientific project launched in 2020. This project brings together an international network of researchers to conduct innovative studies that advance the conservation efforts for marine megafauna.
according to Associate Professor Sequeira, their research has shown that protected areas alone are not enough to conserve these species. New strategies must be implemented, such as changing fishing gear, using different lights in nets, and implementing traffic schemes for ships to reduce human pressure on these animals.
Dr Jorge Rodríguez from Instituto de Física Interdisciplinar y Sistemas Complejos and co-lead author of the study added: “Our analysis identifies key areas used by marine megafauna species as residencies or migratory corridors. We ranked these areas based on the number of species that use them for important behaviors.”
However, even if 30% of the ocean is designated as protected areas in these key locations, it may not be enough to conserve these animals.More action is needed.
The Importance of Mitigation Strategies
The team’s research highlights the need for mitigation strategies along with protected areas. These strategies include changing fishing gear and using different lights in nets to reduce bycatch. Traffic schemes for ships can also help minimize collisions with marine megafauna.
New Insights into Marine Megafauna Behaviors
The study also sheds light on where marine megafauna reside or migrate through specific regions of the ocean. By ranking these regions based on their importance for multiple species’ behaviors, researchers can identify priority locations for conservation efforts.
Not enough Protection
Despite the importance of these key areas, Associate Professor Sequeira emphasizes that even if 30% of the ocean is designated as protected areas in these locations, it may not be enough to conserve marine megafauna. More action is needed to ensure their survival.
Conclusion
The research conducted by Associate Professor Ana Sequeira and her team highlights the need for new strategies and increased protection for marine megafauna. By implementing mitigation strategies and focusing on key regions where multiple species’ behaviors occur,we can work towards a more sustainable future for these magnificent creatures.
Contact Information
Associate Professor Ana Sequeira
Research School of Biology
ANU College of Science and Medicine
E: Ana.Sequeira@anu.edu.au
M: +61 430 072 253
Media Assistance
rebeka Selmeczki on +61 497 024 065 or ANU Media on +61 2 6125 7979 or at media@anu.edu.au
This is such an important initiative for the protection of our oceans and the incredible creatures that call it home. #SaveOurOceans