| Deep below the ocean's surface lies a world of rich biodiversity that few of us will ever see, a dark universe inhabited by ancient corals, sponges and a host of unique and mysterious species, most of which have not yet been discovered. | High seas biodiversity is under increasing pressure: bottom trawl fishing, shipping, waste dumping, military activities, even some forms of marine research -- all of these activities are posing mounting threats to the extraordinary life forms that inhabit high seas ecosystems. | IUCN has led a global effort to unite the scientific and marine conservation communities behind urgent action to protect high seas biodiversity. Effective governance structures, further scientific research and the creation of marine protected areas are all needed to protect the high seas. |
