Essential ocean variables for global sustained observations of biodiversity and ecosystem changes

Area of Science:

• Marine biology
• Oceanography
• Ecosystem science

Background:

• Global marine ecosystems face anthropogenic pressures and climate change, necessitating sustained observation systems.
• International scientific, governance, and policy bodies require baseline data to measure impacts and allocate resources for solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify biological and ecological essential ocean variables (EOVs) for a global ocean observing system.
• To ensure these EOVs are scientifically relevant, socially informative, and technologically feasible.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a driver-pressure-state-impact-response (DPSIR) model.
• Examined international agreements to identify societal drivers and pressures.
• Evaluated temporal and spatial scales of variables from over 100 observing programs.
• Analyzed the impact and scalability of variables in addressing societal and scientific issues.

Main Results:

• Identified EOVs related to ecosystem components (plankton, fish, marine mammals, turtles, birds) and ecosystem extent/health (coral, seagrass, mangroves, algae).
• Benthic invertebrate and microbe diversity/biomass identified as emerging EOVs requiring further development.
• Detection of shifts in biological systems depends on EOVs, monitored properties, and time-series length.

Conclusions:

• Global implementation of EOVs requires scientific and policy collaboration, capacity building, and advanced observing technologies.
• Adoption of international standards and best practices is essential for effective global ocean observing.
• Sustained, standardized observations are critical for understanding and managing marine ecosystems under pressure.