Baseline data layers used for spatial planning, monitoring and research in relation to the Ross Sea region Marine Protected Area

This paper provides data layers relevant to establishing the baseline for the Ross Sea region Marine Protected Area (MPA). We provide data used to investigate environmental and ecological spatial patterns as part of the design and evaluation process for the Ross Sea region MPA, including spatial maps and information on key Ross Sea ecosystem processes, and data layers used to determine the pelagic and benthic bioregionalisations. We also include data layers which we consider likely to be useful in contributing to defining the “baseline” state of the Ross Sea region.