The application of potential conservation measures listed in Article IX 2 of the Convention requires ‘the designation of regions and sub-regions based on the distribution of populations of Antarctic marine living resources’ (Article IX 2 (b)). In order to select meaningful boundaries for such areas, first priority has been given to surface circulation of southern waters and the distribution of krill. This has been supplemented by (limited) information on the distribution of major consumers including baleen whales, seals and penguins. A possible relationship between general flowline features of the Antarctic ice cap and ragional dynamics of the Southern Ocean ecosystem is also suggested.

From the evidence available, the following six potential conservation areas are proposed:

70°W - 15°W
15°W - 40°E
40°E - 90°E
90°E - 150°E
150°E - 160°W
160°W - 70°W

Examples are given of options available for management approaches within these major conservation areas.