Integrating cetacean research into the CCAMLR Ecosystem Monitoring Program and the revised Krill Fishery Management Approach: Review and recommendations

There has been increasing recognition of the need to consider cetaceans in CCAMLR discussions in the context of several ongoing initiatives. The revised Krill Fishery Management Approach, current and ongoing efforts to revise the CCAMLR Ecosystem Monitoring Program, as well as Marine Protected Area initiatives aim at integrating cetacean data due to their spatiotemporal extent and significant role in the Antarctic ecosystem. In a collaboration with the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission (IWC), and other cetacean experts, this paper reviews key baleen whale species in the CCAMLR convention area, highlighting their suitability as indicators for ecosystem monitoring. We identify significant knowledge gaps related to abundance, spatial and temporal distribution patterns, krill consumption rates, and interactions with other krill-dependent predators following the collaboration Terms of Reference provided. We provide detailed recommendations on methods and technologies for monitoring cetacean abundance, distribution, small-scale foraging behaviour, population health, and energetics. Further collaboration between SC-CAMLR and the IWC-SC can guide implementation of standardised approaches to facilitate effective ecosystem monitoring. Noting this represents an ongoing and iterative collaboration with IWC-SC and other cetacean experts, we welcome feedback from the Working Group on the information presented.