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The marine area in the Frente Chubut corridor is a major biodiversity hotspot.
However, increasing human activity and fishing pressure are threatening its ecological balance.
This Pristine Seas documentary describes the context with stunning images:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ooKf5xe15A&list=TLGGB4jF7sOJYgswOTA3MjAyNA&t=114s

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A preliminary MPA was proposed in 2022.

Recognising the impact of climate change on oceanic conditions, Pristine Seas reached out to
@lobeliaearth’s expertise to better understand whether the MPA’s location aligns with future biodiversity hotspots.

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While one species can't measure biodiversity alone, key species like the Magellanic Penguin can indicate ecosystem health. Frente Chubut is home to this emblematic species, making them crucial for our study.

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We analysed Magellanic penguin location data from Global Penguin Society to understand the relationship between penguin habitats and oceanic properties. We used field data of penguin location to map the biodiversity hotspots.

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Simultaneously, we used Copernicus Marine #EO datasets to map environmental factors such as temperature, salinity, water depth, and chlorophyll—a key indicator of marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.
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Integrating penguin field data with these indicators, our statistical model maps how oceanographic features affect penguin habitat suitability. Combining indicators provides a comprehensive view of habitat suitability.
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However, the conditions are expected to change due to global warming, with 90% of its effects occurring in the ocean. This will impact water temperature, currents, and other biochemical properties.
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To predict future habitats, we used CMIP6 model projections & ran our habitat suitability model again with future oceanic conditions.
We identified the overlapping areas between current & future suitable areas and delivered information on the region most critical to protect
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