Protecting the Ocean Twilight Zone: Bridging Biodiversity Protection, Climate Stability and Ecosystem Health

​The Ocean Twilight Zone provides a critical link between the surface and deep ocean. This biodiversity rich zone contains up to 90% of the ocean’s fish biomass. The daily vertical migration by its species is a driver of the biological carbon pump and transports carbon from the surface to the deep-sea, contributing to climate stabilization. These species also serve as an important food source for marine wildlife and commercially valuable species. In 2025, an IUCN resolution was adopted calling for its protection through a precautionary management approach and advancement of scientific understanding. Fiji and Panama recently launched the Mesopelagic Zone Conservation Challenge to increase ambition and drive political momentum for protection and helping countries deliver on their biodiversity, climate, 30x30 and other commitments. The event will convene high-level speakers and experts to discuss new science, policy pathways and serve as a platform for governments to showcase commitments.