Program: US Antarctic Marine Living Resources Program

Since 1986, the NOAA Antarctic Ecosystems Research Division (AERD) has managed the U.S. AMLR Program's field studies in Antarctic waters to investigate the effects of commercial fisheries on the marine ecosystem, including effects on local seal and seabird populations. Studies conducted by U.S. AMLR/AERD researchers include: Annual research vessel survey to map prey distribution and abundance, and to measure environmental variables in a study area off the Antarctic Peninsula; Research at land stations to determine effects of fishing on pinniped and seabird populations during their reproductive cycles; and Accounting for the status and role of mesopelagic species such as myctophids, Pleurogramma, etc.

Additional research and activities conducted by the AERD in support of the AMLR Program's objectives include: Monitoring commercial fishing vessels to determine catch statistics, by‑catch amount and composition, and occurrence of marine mammal and seabird interactions; Conducting research on the improvement of field methodologies, effects of instrumentation, degree of data biases, and occurrence of sampling errors; Collaborate with international partners, including participation in their field programs; and Providing leadership and advice to CCAMLR's Commission and Scientific Committee and its Working Groups.