The Ross Sea

The Ross Sea is the southernmost body of water in the world. It’s located southwest of New Zealand and gouges a chunk out of Antarctica. The Commission for the Conservation of Arctic Marine Living Resources asked 24 governments to come together and turn the Ross Sea into a protected area last July but it didn’t happen. The process was derailed by Russia, one of the countries that fishes in those waters. Last month the commission met again in hopes of establishing a protected area because the Ross Sea is one of the most pristine ecosystems on our planet. With the current rate of ocean acidification occurring it is the ideal place for scientists to study a healthy ocean ecosystem and it needs protection. It’s dominated by all the great ocean hunters and plankton. Along with the abundant water bound marine life, the Ross Sea is also home to a quarter of the world’s population of Adelie and emperor penguins. In October at the commission meeting the plan to protect the Ross Sea was once again thwarted, this time by China, Russia, and Ukraine. But members of CCAMLR aren't giving up because they realize how difficult it is to bring to agreement so many countries with diverse ideas and cultures. The message of conservation isn't getting through but maybe the fourth time the group meets, in 2014, will be lucky. The penguins, whales, seals, orcas, and other carnivorous fish are counting on it.