To aid the development of a better understanding of the ecological relationships and processes in the marine system, a brief overview of the major faunal groups in Antarctic waters (excluding benthos) is provided. The aim is to assist in providing a background against which plans for future research and management programmes may be designed. 

Separate sections of the review deal with zooplankton, krill, cephalopods, fish, seabirds, seals, and whales. Each section provides information on species composition of particular groups of animals, their geographical distribution and abundance. Where information is sufficient there are descriptions of other biological parameters such as reproduction and growth, food habits and role in the ecosystem. 

Krill is considered separately from zooplankton because of its importance as a harvested resource and a prey item for many species in higher trophic levels. The Southern Ocean food web and its trophic relationships are also discussed.