A global analysis of marine megafauna movements to inform and enhance ocean conservation strategies.

Summary: This global study tracked over 15,000 marine megafauna individuals from 121 species using satellite telemetry to identify critical migratory corridors and residency areas. The analysis revealed that these animals use specific ocean regions intensively, yet less than 8% of those areas are currently protected. The research shows that the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework’s 30% ocean protection target will be insufficient unless combined with targeted threat mitigation strategies such as fishing regulation and shipping management. The findings provide a data-driven roadmap for prioritizing marine protected areas to effectively conserve biodiversity and reduce extinction risks for highly mobile marine species.

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