Overview
Title
Endangered and Threatened Species; Notice of Initiation of a 5-Year Review of Indo-Pacific Reef-building Corals
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The government wants to check and see if certain coral in the ocean need more help to grow. They are asking everyone to share new information about these coral by February 8, 2021, to better understand how they are doing.
Summary AI
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), has announced a 5-year review of 15 types of reef-building coral from the Indo-Pacific region. This review, required by the Endangered Species Act, aims to determine if these corals should remain classified as threatened. The NMFS is calling for public input, especially new scientific and commercial data on these corals, to ensure the information used in the review is up-to-date and comprehensive. The deadline for submitting information is February 8, 2021.
Abstract
NMFS announces the initiation of a 5-year review for 15 Indo- Pacific reef-building corals (Acropora globiceps, Acropora jacquelineae, Acropora lokani, Acropora pharaonis, Acropora retusa, Acropora rudis, Acropora speciosa, Acropora tenella, Anacropora spinosa, Euphyllia paradivisa, Isopora crateriformis, Montipora australiensis, Pavona diffluens, Porites napopora, and Seriatopora aculeata). NMFS is required by the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to conduct 5-year reviews to ensure that the listing classifications of species are accurate. The 5-year review must be based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review. We request submission of any such information on these 15 coral species, particularly information on the status, threats, and recovery of the species that has become available since their listing, effective September 10, 2014.
Keywords AI
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AnalysisAI
The announcement from the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), a division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), marks the beginning of a mandated 5-year review of 15 Indo-Pacific reef-building coral species listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The purpose of this review is to assess whether these coral species should maintain their current status, be reclassified, or potentially be removed from the list of threatened species based on the most recent and best scientific and commercial data available. Public input is requested, particularly any newly available data pertaining to these corals, with a submission deadline set for February 8, 2021.
General Summary
The NMFS is tasked with conducting periodic evaluations of species listed as endangered or threatened to ensure their classifications are scientifically accurate. This announcement focuses on 15 specific coral species, emphasizing the importance of public participation in gathering relevant information. The input sought includes data on biology, habitat conditions, threats, and conservation measures, which will ultimately guide future decisions regarding the species' listing statuses.
Significant Issues or Concerns
Several issues arise from the document that merit attention. Firstly, the use of complex legal and regulatory language poses a barrier to understanding for those unfamiliar with legal codes. The document refers to specific legal references, which might confuse the general public. Additionally, while personal information provided by contributors will be publicly accessible, the document does attempt to mitigate privacy concerns by allowing anonymous submissions. However, some individuals might still feel uneasy about potential exposure.
Another issue is the lack of clarity regarding the review's outcomes. The possibility of delisting or reclassifying species is mentioned, but the document does not provide detailed potential consequences or examples. The implications of such actions remain vague for the reader.
Public Impact
Broadly speaking, this document reflects an ongoing commitment to safeguarding biodiversity and ecological health through diligent species management. However, the effectiveness of this effort hinges heavily on public participation. By soliciting public input, the document empowers individuals and organizations to contribute to the conservation dialogue, promoting transparency in decision-making. Still, the agency must ensure clear communication and accessibility to maximize engagement and avoid alienating stakeholders unfamiliar with scientific or legal jargon.
Stakeholder Impact
For environmental organizations, scientific communities, and conservation practitioners, the document offers a significant opportunity to influence coral conservation efforts. These stakeholders may have access to valuable research and data, enhancing the accuracy and thoroughness of the review process. Conversely, if enough data is not procured, it may impact the quality of the review, potentially affecting conservation measures for these vital marine ecosystems.
Additionally, individuals residing in regions where these corals are found may experience both indirect and direct impacts from changes in coral status, influencing local biodiversity and economic activities reliant on reef health, such as tourism and fishing industries.
In summary, while the document outlines a critical process for ensuring accurate classification of threatened coral species, clear communication and robust public engagement remain essential to its success and the meaningful participation of all concerned parties.
Issues
• The document does not specify any budget or financial allocation, so there is no clear evidence of wasteful spending or favoritism towards particular organizations or individuals.
• The document utilizes some technical and regulatory language that might be complex for a non-expert audience, such as specific references to legal codes (e.g., 16 U.S.C. 1533(c)(2)(B) and 50 CFR 424.11(e)).
• The document could be clearer about the implications of the review outcomes. It mentions potential delisting or reclassification of species but does not provide detailed examples or consequences of such actions.
• The call for information emphasizes that all submissions will be publicly accessible, which might raise privacy concerns for individuals submitting personal information, even with the option for anonymous contributions.
• The document does not address what will happen if the requested information is not provided or if insufficient data is collected for the review.