Abstract

The Sargasso Sea is a distinctive area of open ocean situated within the North Atlantic Subtropical Gyre, bounded on all sides by major ocean currents. Named for the floating Sargassum seaweed, it contains the world?s only self-sustaining community of holopelagic algae, dominated by Sargassum natans and S. fluitans. The ecology and life-history patterns of many oceanic species are adapted to the unique habitats provided by the Sargassum. The Sargasso Sea is a critical spawning site, migratory route and feeding ground for commercially important pelagic fishes such as dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus), jacks (family Carangidae) and various tuna species, as well as a number of other threatened and endangered species. Many of these species are critical to the commercial fisheries, sport fisheries and eco-tourism industries of Gulf and Caribbean communities. Direct threats to the Sargasso Sea are unsustainable and destructive fishing practices and commercial collection of Sargassum weed for use as fertilizer, cattle feed and biofuel. Indirect threats include vessel traffic and pollution from ship discharges, tar and plastics. Recognizing the importance of this area and the need to protect it, the Government of Bermuda with international partners is leading an international initiative to explore ways to enhance protection of the Sargasso Sea. Most of the Sargasso Sea is in the high seas, and only a small portion is under national jurisdiction, within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Bermuda. International cooperation and action within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea are thus essential.

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