Hydrological and ecological uniqueness of Elephant Island (Western Maritime Antarctic Peninsula) - case study in the context of planning MPAs

Elephant Island (EI), located at the northern edge of the South Shetland Islands (SSI), lies within a region marked by distinctive oceanographic conditions. These conditions are shaped by complex seafloor topography and the influence of multiple water masses, particularly those driven by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. This current is known to fluctuate on multi-year timescales due to the El Niño-Southern Oscillation. The continental shelf surrounding the SSI -
and especially the waters near EI - plays a vital role as a key recruitment zone for Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba). In recent decades, there has been a noticeable rise in the frequency of years dominated by salps, accompanied by a concurrent decline in krill abundance. This shift likely affects local seabird populations that breed on the island, many of which have shown an overall downward trend. The marine area around EI is also recognized as a hotspot for fin whales
(Balaenoptera physalus) and serves as an important feeding ground. Given the region’s unique hydrological dynamics and its rich marine biodiversity, EI and its adjacent waters have been proposed for inclusion as a General Protection Zone under the Domain 1 Marine Protected Area (MPA) framework. The goal of this study is to synthesize existing ecological data on EI, highlighting its ecological value within the broader Antarctic ecosystem, and in light of ongoing efforts to advance MPA designation - efforts which remain hindered by a lack of consensus among certain nations.