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IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacific (WESTPAC)

Advancing knowledge and cooperation for a healthy ocean and prosperous society

Work Area #3:

Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystem

Biodiversity Status Awareness

The Western Pacific is blessed with the highest concentration of marine biodiversity and endemism in the world. The region is universally recognized as the epicenter of marine life abundance and diversity on the planet.

Home to more than 75 percent of all known coral species, 50 percent of the world’s coral reefs, 3,000 fish species and the greatest extent of mangrove forests among all regions in the world, the Western Pacific plays an important role in the food security of people in the region and the world.

From field sampling and laboratory experiment, to species identification and restoration techniques, the Sub-Commission strives to assist countries in knowing our biodiversity status, ecosystem functions, and the impacts of escalating human activities and climate change, and inform management, policies and decisions.

Coral reef conservation

Coastal habitats

Ocean acidification

RTRC on Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health