THE ROSS SEA, ANTARCTICA

   is the last intact marine ecosystem on earth

It's a living laboratory, providing our last chance to study and understand how a healthy marine ecosystem functions. But the natural balance of it's ecosystem is now under threat. An international fishing fleet is targeting Antarctic toothfish, sold as "Chilean sea bass" in up-market restaurants around the world.

There is still a chance to protect the Ross Sea. The international body providing governance for the waters around Antarctica has made a commitment to designate a network of Marine Protected Areas by 2012. This organisation is composed of 25 member nations, including New Zealand and the United States.

The Last Ocean endorses the establishment of a comprehensive no-take Marine Protected Area for the Ross Sea. We would like New Zealand, as the instigator of fishing in the Ross Sea, to lead by example - to phase out commercial fishing and encourage other member nations to do the same.

The Last Ocean needs your help. Take action now.