Antarctic Pack-Ice Seals: A Workshop

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The Antarctic pack ice seals are represented by four species, Crabeater, Lobodon carcinophagus; Weddell, Leptonychotes weddellii; Leopard, Hydruga leptonyx; and Ross, Omatophoca rossii. These species could be potentially affected by human related environmental impacts that are beginning to occur within the Antarctic ecosystem. The impact that such disturbances as global warming, ozone depletion, and commercial fisheries, could have on the ecology and population dynamics of these species is unknown. Because of their dependence upon the pack ice ecosystem, it has been hypothesized that this group could be particularly vulnerable to slight changes that would be caused by such events. Census data, from very limited surveys, in the early 1980's, have shown that the crabeater seal population may have declined in certain areas of the Antarctic in recent decades. This species is currently being viewed as an indicator of fisheries impact. However, very little is known about the total distribution, abundance and general ecology of this species around the Antarctic continent. Thus, it is difficult to properly interpret local changes that may be observed from investigations. This workshop will produce an integrated study document that will prioritize topics of research on these marine mammals. The workshop will encourage cooperation and sharing of data, logistic resources, and scientific expertise.