A proposed framework for describing, understanding and protecting Antarctic wetlands: The Cierva Point Wetland complex case

Abstract

Wetlands are ecosystems characterised by standing water or waterlogged soils, with properties distinct from aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Despite their significant contributions to society, they have historically been viewed as wastelands, leading to rapid global loss and degradation. In response, the Ramsar Convention promotes policies for their conservation and sustainable use, designating over 2000 protected sites. As this convention does not apply to Antarctica, Antarctic wetlands still need a theoretical framework for their interpretation and protection, despite growing scientific and conservation interest. Here we characterised the wetland complex of Cierva Point (Antarctic Peninsula). We classified 66 wetlands into nine types and analysed environmental variation among them regarding location-dependent features (latitude, longitude, height, exposure, penguin influence, substrate) and physical-chemical variables. Wetlands of the same type were not geographically clustered and varied widely in physical-chemical features, with only substrate and penguin influence partially explaining this diversity. We then developed an interpretative model rooted in wetland ecology paradigms, which illustrates the complex interactions between the analysed features, others not considered here, and their temporal variation. As these factors also account for the outstanding environmental and biological diversity of other Antarctic wetland complexes, informed measures to improve and expand their conservation are further discussed.