Mollusc Map Exposes Unprotected Ocean Treasures

A groundbreaking study has mapped the rich diversity of molluscs across the Indo-Pacific Convergence Zone (IPCZ), a global hotspot for marine life. Analysing over 47,000 records for 3,215 species, researchers identified 11 priority areas for conservation in the waters of the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Australia.

These zones are astonishingly rich, containing 47.9% of all mollusc species and 58.9% of threatened taxa. The investigation revealed a critical conservation gap: only 18.7% of these vital areas overlap with existing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), leaving the vast majority vulnerable. High fishing pressure disproportionately affects these priority zones.

The study confirmed that biogenic habitats, those built by organisms like corals, are strongly linked to high diversity. While factors like primary productivity and bathymetry (seafloor depth) were key drivers, rising temperatures had negative effects. The findings present an urgent case for expanding marine protection and reducing fishing effort to safeguard these crucial ecosystems.