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Threats to Natural Heritage of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands

The pristine islands of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands are facing numerous threats to their natural heritage. This report highlights three key areas of concern: introduced non-native species, fishing practices, and human and animal disturbance.

Introduced Non-Native Species

Introduced non-native species have had a significant impact on the ecosystem of the South Sandwich Islands. Here are some key statistics:

  • Approximately 70 species of flowering plants have been introduced, with 37 still extant.
  • Introduced plant species can affect nutrient cycling, biotic interactions, and soil-dwelling organisms.
  • The South Sandwich Islands are a rarity amongst Sub-Antarctic islands due to the lack of introduced non-native species.

Fishing Practices

Fishing is a major threat to the seabirds in the territory. Here are some key statistics:

  • Fishing is the main cause of mortality for seabirds in the territory.
  • Longline fishing has been linked to the global decline of albatrosses and petrels, killing approximately 100,000 albatrosses and 200,000 other seabirds each year.
  • Traval fishing can also cause mortality in seabirds through collision with trawl wraps and cables.
  • Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing for Patagonian and Antarctic toothfish threatens serious depletion of bird populations.

Human and Animal Disturbance

Human and animal disturbance is another significant threat to the islands’ natural heritage. Here are some key statistics:

  • Physical impacts from animals are widespread, largely due to the abundant population of Antarctic fur seals that can trample tussocks.
  • Physical disturbance from humans is less widespread, currently limited, and documented at only a few visitor sites.
  • The full extent of human physical disturbance is not well documented or quantified.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts are underway to protect the islands’ natural heritage. Here are some key initiatives:

  • Fisheries in the territory are strictly regulated through measures set by GSGSSI and CCAMLR.
  • Risk assessments are conducted to minimize the negative effects of fishery activities on seabirds.
  • Annual seabird bycatch information is recorded and submitted under ACAP legislation.
  • Measures such as independent observers aboard vessels, net monitor cables, prohibition of offal and discards during shooting and hauling of gear have reduced the amount of bycatch.

Conclusion

The report highlights the importance of continued conservation efforts to protect the natural heritage of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands from introduced non-native species, fishing practices, and human and animal disturbance.