Summary: Gerber et al. (2011)

Oceans are challenging areas for conservation, as large marine mammals move large distances, but are typically only protected in small areas. In 2006, the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM), one of the largest conservation areas in the world, was established with the primary aim of conserving marine wildlife. However, despite this goal, one of the endemic species of this area, the Hawaiian monk seal (Monachus schauinslandi) is declining as a result of high juvenile mortality. In contrast, populations outside of the protected area are increasing. The ecological drivers of the decline are currently unknown. Gerber et al. (2011) evaluated an intervention proposal by the Pacific Island Fisheries Science Centre. The benefits proposed included maintainance of subpopualtions in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands through preservation of metapopulation structure. Gerber et al. (2011) indicate that this would provide more time for studies on the factors driving the population decline. They suggest that the inability of the PMNM to conserve monk seals reflects the differing ideals of conservation agendas, the necessity for understanding ecosystem and large-scale ecosystem interactions, and the necessity of adaptive management.