The Cachucho is a large underwater mountain that rises sharply from the more than four thousand meters of depth of the abisal plain of the Bay of Biscay to the 425 meters of its summit. It is located in the Cantabrian Sea, about 65 km from the Asturian coast of Ribadesella-on the Spanish continental shelf in the terms of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea-and is separated by an internal basin. For this reason, its fauna is composed of both typical species of the underwater oceanic mountains and other more of the platform's own funds, which makes it possible to explain its great biological diversity.

In 1948, French researcher Edouard Le Danois published the first description of this underwater mountain he named with his name, Bank Le Danois, ended with the one that is still identified in the scientific forums. However, the area was already known by the Asturian fishermen as "El Cachucho", local name of the red palometa, species of commercial interest in the area.

The area was the subject of a research project, coordinated by the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO) of the Ministry of Science and Innovation, called " Study of the ecosystems of the continental margin and impact of their fisheries " (Project ECOMARG). The activity of the IEO in the area has been fundamental in order to achieve a good level of knowledge of the natural resources present, thus consolidating itself as a reference organism in the area, and thus complying with the provisions of the article 27.4 of Law 41/2010 of 29 December.

The research campaigns carried out have shown the existence of a great biological richness. To date 682 species have been identified on their funds, five of which are described as new to science. One of the causes of this wealth lies in the rocky structure of the Bank, which allows the settlement of fixed organisms to the bottom such as corals, sponges and gorgonias, which determines the existence of a very favorable complex habitat as a refuge for a multitude of other species.

The studies conducted in El Cachucho have confirmed the presence of breeding adults of several species of commercial interest such as the locha, the lily, the goat of height and the cabracho of depth, very abundant in the Bank during the time of putting. The habitats present in this zone are essential for the populations of these species, and consequently, essential for the maintenance of the fisheries that are carried out in the areas near the platform of the Cantabrian Sea, converting The Cachucho in a source or reserve of fish resources of enormous value.

For all this it can be said that the marine space of El Cachucho, including the waters in which it is integrated and the column of suprayacente air, constitutes an ecosystem of great importance and very vulnerable, where there are habitats and species of great value listed in the annexes of European directives and the main international conventions on the protection of the marine environment ratified by Spain, such as the Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Northeast Atlantic (OSPAR Convention, Paris 1992).

Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora and Directive 2009 /147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 1992 on the 2009, on the conservation of wild birds, develop the criteria for the designation of protected areas, Natura 2000, and require Member States to include in that network marine areas for the protection of species and species. marine habitats included in their relevant annexes.

The EU Biodiversity Strategy up to 2020: our Life and Natural Capital Insurance, COM (2011) 244, sets out in its objective 1 that Member States and the Commission will ensure that the establishment of the Natura 2000, including the marine environment, is essentially completed in 2012.

The importance that the European Union attaches to the marine environment has, once again, been highlighted by Directive 2008 /56/EC of 17 June 2008 establishing a framework for Community action in the field of environmental policy. marine environment, which introduces the obligation to achieve a good environmental status of European marine waters by developing marine strategies with the ultimate aim of maintaining biodiversity and preserving the diversity and dynamism of the marine environment. oceans and seas.

For its part, the OSPAR Convention establishes in its Annex V on the protection and conservation of ecosystems and the biological diversity of the maritime zone, a Network of Marine Protected Areas that must be proposed by the Parties. In the case of marine protected areas under national jurisdiction. By 2012 this network should be ecologically consistent and in 2016 it should be well managed. In addition, by 2020, 10% of the area of the maritime area of OSPAR is expected to be protected. The OSPAR Recommendation 2003/3 on the Network of Marine Protected Areas establishes that the marine spaces of the Natura 2000 Network may be included in the OSPAR Network of Marine Protected Areas without any further justification.

On the other hand, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD, Rio de Janeiro, 1992) has established numerous recommendations and resolutions of interest for the conservation of marine ecosystems. At the 10th Conference of the Parties to the Convention, held in Nagoya (Japan, 2010), the Strategic Plan for Biological Diversity 2011-2020 and the Aichi Goals were adopted. These goals, which must contribute to the five strategic objectives set out in the Plan, include at least 10% of marine and coastal areas, especially those of particular importance for diversity, in the year 2020. biological and ecosystem services must be preserved by means of protected area systems.

Law 42/2007, of 13 December, of Natural Heritage and Biodiversity, which incorporates the international guidelines for the conservation of marine biodiversity, creates the figure of Marine Protected Area (AMP) as one of the categories of protected natural spaces and determines that these will be integrated into the Network of Marine Protected Areas. It also lays the legal basis for the distribution of competences between the General Administration of the State and the Autonomous Communities on the protection of marine biodiversity and on the declaration and management of AMP.

Law 41/2010 of 29 December on the protection of the marine environment, which incorporates into Spanish law Directive 2008 /56/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 June 2008, is currently the general framework for the planning of the marine environment, with the aim of achieving its good environmental status. Until the enactment of this Law, the Network of Marine Protected Areas had not been regulated. The aforementioned Law formally creates the Network and establishes what its objectives are, the natural spaces that make it up and the mechanisms for its designation and management.

For its natural wealth, the area of El Cachucho meets the criteria for its proposal as a place of Community Importance (SCI) and subsequent declaration as a Special Conservation Area (ZEC) of the Natura 2000 Network, as well as the criteria necessary for their inclusion in the Network of Marine Protected Areas of the OSPAR Convention.

In this regard, in April 2008, the "Official State Gazette", Order PRE/969/2008 of 3 April 2008, published the Agreement of the Council of Ministers adopting measures for the protection of the El Cachucho sea area. The Agreement laid down the legal and procedural basis for effective protection of the area. Specifically, among other issues, the Ministry of the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment, in exercise of the powers provided for in Articles 6, 42.2 and 49.1.c) of Law 42/2007, Natural and Natural Heritage, were provided for Biodiversity, make proposals for inclusion in the list of SCIs within the Natura 2000 Network and in the Network of Marine Protected Areas of the OSPAR Convention referred to in the previous paragraph.

In January 2009, the Order ARM/3840/2008, dated 23 December, was published in the Official Gazette of the State, approving measures for the protection of the sea area of El Cachucho, which agrees to propose the inclusion of El Cachucho. Cachucho on the list of SCIs of the Natura 2000 Network and on the OSPAR Network of Marine Protected Areas, as well as declaring the application of the preventive protection regime for the area.

As a consequence of the previous ministerial order, in June 2009 the OSPAR Commission approved the inclusion of El Cachucho in the OSPAR Network of Marine Protected Areas. Subsequently, with the date of 8 February 2011, the Commission Decision 2011 /63/EU of 10 January 2011 adopting, in accordance with Council Directive 92/43/EC, a fourth, was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 8 February 2011. the updated list of SCIs of the Atlantic biogeographical region. This list includes the Cachucho with the LIC Code ES90ATL01.

Law 42/2007, of 13 December, in Article 42.3, states that once the list of SCIs has been approved by the European Commission, they must be declared as ZEC as soon as possible and at most within six years. According to Article 6 of Law 42/2007, it is up to the General Administration of the State, through the Ministry of the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment, to exercise the administrative functions referred to in that Law when are spaces, habitats or critical areas located in marine areas under national sovereignty or jurisdiction.

This royal decree aims at the declaration of El Cachucho as AMP and as ZEC of the Natura 2000 Network. This royal decree also approved the corresponding conservation measures for the protected marine space of El Cachucho, contained in a common management plan for both protection figures: AMP and ZEC. This plan contains, among other things, the regulation of uses and activities, which are carried out in the protected space, in accordance with the provisions of Articles 28.1 and 32.2 and 3 of Law 42/2007, of 13 December, of Natural and Natural Heritage Biodiversity. As for the coordinates specified in Article 1, these are referred to the European Land Reference System 1989 (ETRS89), UTM Projection, Zone 30. The fourth additional provision clarifies the correspondence of these coordinates with others collected in different state and European legal texts.

This royal decree culminates a long way to make the declaration of El Cachucho effective as the first AMP of Spain, in accordance with Law 42/2007, of December 13, and Law 41/2010, of December 29, which is a milestone for the conservation of the Spanish marine natural heritage and constitutes the basis for the establishment of a coherent system of marine protected areas, well managed and in line with our rich marine biodiversity and with the commitments International acquired by Spain, which guarantees its legacy in a good environmental state to the generations future.

This royal decree has been submitted for consideration by the State Commission for Natural Heritage and Biodiversity and the State Council for Natural Heritage and Biodiversity, and reported by the Middle East Advisory Council. Environment and the Sectoral Fisheries Conference. The text has been submitted to public information, in accordance with the provisions of article 16 of Law 27/2006 of July 18, which regulates the rights to information, public participation and access to justice in the field of the environment.

This royal decree is dictated by the provisions of Article 149.1.23, on the protection of the environment, and on Article 149.1.19. on maritime fisheries, on the Constitution, as well as on the application of the provisions of Article 149.1.19. In Article 6 of Law 42/2007, of 13 December, and of Article 28 of Law 41/2010, of 29 December.

In its virtue, at the initiative of the Minister of the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment, with the prior approval of the Minister of Territorial Policy and Public Administration, according to the State Council and prior deliberation of the Council of Ministers, at its meeting on 11 November 2011,

DISPONGO:

Article 1. Declaration of El Cachucho as Marine Protected Area.

The marine area of El Cachucho is declared as Marine Protected Area (hereinafter AMP), in accordance with the provisions of Article 32 of Law 42/2007, of 13 December, of Natural Heritage and Biodiversity and in the article 27.1 of Law 41/2010 of 29 December on the protection of the marine environment.

The area declared as AMP of El Cachucho, according to the European Land Reference System (ETRS89), UTM projection, Zona 30, occupies a total area of 234.950.16 ha, and its geographical coordinates are as follows:

A: 44th 12 '00' 'N-05º 16 '00' 'W

B: 44th 12 '00' 'N-04th 26 '00' 'W

C: 43º 53 '00' 'N-05º 16 '00' 'W

D: 43º 53 '00' 'N-04th 26 '00' 'W

The associated mapping is included in Annex I.

Article 2. Declaration of El Cachucho as Special Conservation Zone.

Special Area of Conservation (hereinafter ZEC) of the Natura 2000 Network is hereby declared the Place of Community Importance (hereinafter 'LIC') called 'El Cachucho', approved by Commission Decision 2011 /63/EU of 10 January 2006. 2011, for which it is adopted, in accordance with Council Directive 92/43/EC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora, a fourth updated list of sites of importance of the Atlantic biogeographical region, with the code LIC ES90ATL01.

The geographical limits of the ZEC of El Cachucho coincide with those established for the AMP of El Cachucho, created in Article 1.

Article 3. Approval of the Management Plan of the AMP and the ZEC of El Cachucho, and scope of application.

1. The Management Plan of the AMP and the ZEC of El Cachucho is approved.

2. The activities carried out in the AMP and ZEC of El Cachucho will be adjusted to the conservation and management measures, the guidelines and limitations of uses that are specified in the Plan of Management of the AMP and of the ZEC. This Management Plan is listed as Annex II.

3. The management that will be implemented in the AMP and the ZEC of El Cachucho is collected in the Common Management Plan.

Article 4. Evaluation of plans, programs and projects.

The procedures for evaluating plans, programs and projects that may affect the ZEC El Cachucho will have to comply with the provisions of Article 45 of Law 42/2007, of December 13, on measures of Conservation of the Natura 2000 Network.

Article 5. Management and Technical Management of the AMP and the ZEC of El Cachucho.

1. The management of the AMP and the ZEC of El Cachucho will be carried out from the Directorate General of Natural Environment and Forestry Policy. The Director General of Natural Environment and Forestry Policy will appoint an official of that Directorate General who will act as Technical Director and will be responsible for the regular management of the AMP and the ZEC of El Cachucho.

2. Without prejudice to the authorisations which may be required by application of the relevant sectoral legislation, the granting of the authorisations and the issuance of the reports provided for in the Management Plan of the AMP and of the ZEC shall correspond to the Director General of Natural Environment and Forestry Policy.

The interested parties will ask the Directorate-General for Natural Environment and Forestry Policy to grant the authorizations provided for in the Management Plan of the AMP and of the ZEC-concerning the activities of access to the resources genetic, tourist activities and wildlife observation and scientific research-accompanying them from the project of activity. The minimum information to be collected by the project application shall be determined by resolution of the Director-General for Natural Environment and Forestry Policy for each type of activity.

The application will be addressed to the Directorate-General for Natural Environment and Forestry Policy, and may be presented at the locations set out in Article 38 (4) of Law 30/1992, of November 26, of the Legal Regime of the Public administrations and the Common Administrative Procedure. It may also be submitted by electronic means, in accordance with the provisions of Law 11/2007 of 22 June, of electronic access of citizens to Public Services. Where the application for authorisation is defective or incomplete, the applicant shall be required to provide the defects with the warning or to provide the additional documentation within three months. After that time limit, the file shall be notified to the applicant, without any such defect being remedied or by the additional documentation. In the event that the applicant subsates the defects or presents the supplementary documentation in the time provided for, the relevant application shall be processed in accordance with the procedure described above.

The Directorate-General for Natural Environment and Forestry Policy, once the application for authorisation has been assessed, shall notify its decision in a reasoned manner to the applicant within the maximum period of six months from the date of receipt of the request. application, putting an end to the administrative route. After that period has not been notified, the request for authorisation shall be deemed to be rejected.

As not provided for in this royal decree, the procedure will be governed by the provisions of Law 30/1992, of November 26, of the Legal Regime of Public Administrations and of the Common Administrative Procedure.

3. The procedures for granting and authorizing the activities of services that, according to the management plan, can be carried out in the AMP and ZEC of El Cachucho, must respect the principles of publicity, objectivity, impartiality and transparency. The principle of competitive concurrency will also be applied in the following scenarios:

(a) In the case of a service activity that is promoted by the management administration of the AMP and ZEC of El Cachucho according to the planning and management tools of the same,

b) When the exercise of the activity excludes the exercise of other activities by third parties.

The criteria on which the granting and authorisation for the performance of service activities will be based will be directly linked to environmental protection.

The duration of such authorisations and concessions shall be limited in accordance with their characteristics, and shall not give rise to automatic renewal, without, once extinguished, any advantage for the previous holder or for people linked to him.

Article 6. Collaboration between Public Administrations.

The Ministry of the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment will promote the collaboration between the public administrations affected by this royal decree to comply with the measures laid down in the Management Plan for the purpose of ensure the maintenance or achievement of a favourable conservation status for existing habitats and species in El Cachucho. This collaboration can be developed through the relevant collaboration agreements.

Article 7. Regime of infringements and penalties.

The infringements of the regulations applicable to the AMP and the ZEC of El Cachucho will be subject to the sanctioning regime established in Law 42/2007, of December 13, in Law 41/2010, of December 29, and in the rest of the applicable legislation.

Additional disposition first. International Law.

The application of the provisions of this royal decree and the regulation established in the Management Plan Annex will be carried out without prejudice to the freedoms of navigation, overflight and laying of submarine cables in the terms of the provided for in international law, in particular the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and other international conventions and their implementing resolutions.

Additional provision second. Adaptation to the Marine Strategy of the North Atlantic Marine Demarcation.

The measures contained in the Management Plan will be adapted, if necessary, to the provisions of the Marine Strategy of the North Atlantic Marine Strategy, prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Law 41/2010 of 29 December 2010, within the time limit for the provision of its instrument of approval, and failing that, within one year.

Additional provision third. Scientific monitoring.

The Scientific Monitoring Plan referred to in the Management Plan will be developed in accordance with Article 30 of Law 41/2010 of 29 December, as well as in Article 47 of Law 42/2007, of December 13, and the Article 11 of Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992.

This scientific monitoring plan will be integrated into the monitoring program to be developed in the framework of the Marine Strategy of the North Atlantic Marine Demarcation, in accordance with the provisions of Law 41/2010, of 29 of December.

Additional provision fourth. Correspondence of the surface and coordinates of the AMP and ZEC of El Cachucho depending on the datum and the coordinate system.

1. Pursuant to Annex II to Commission Regulation (EU) No 1089/2010 of 23 November 2010 implementing Directive 2007 /2/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the interoperability of assemblies and the spatial data services, in the case of three-dimensional and two-dimensional coordinate reference systems and the horizontal component of the composite coordinate reference systems used to make available sets of data spatial data, the datum will be the corresponding to the European Terrestrial Reference System 1989 (ETRS89) in the areas within their geographical coverage.

2. The differences found between the coordinates and the area of Article 1 and those contained in earlier rules and texts, both state and Community, are due to the different projection systems used and the changes in the algorithms used in the datum migration.

Additional provision fifth. Technical coordination and participation bodies.

The holder of the Ministry of the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment, by ministerial order, within one year, will constitute and regulate the necessary organs to ensure appropriate technical coordination and participation in the management of the AMP of El Cachucho.

Single repeal provision. Regulatory repeal.

Order PRE/969/2008 of 3 April 2008, for which the Agreement of the Council of Ministers is published, adopting measures for the protection of the marine zone El Cachucho and the Order ARM/3840/2008, of 23 December, for which measures are approved for the protection of the sea area of El Cachucho.

Final disposition first. Competence title.

This royal decree is issued in accordance with the provisions of Article 149.1.23 of the Constitution on the Protection of the Environment, with the exception of the fisheries management plan, which is issued under Article 149.1.19. attributes to the State exclusive competence on offshore fishing in external waters.

Final disposition second. Effective.

The Management Plan for the AMP and the ZEC of El Cachucho is valid for six years.

Final disposition third. Regulatory enablement.

The holder of the Ministry of the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment, in the field of their competences, is empowered to modify by ministerial order the Plan of Fisheries Management, included in Annex II of this royal decree, In respect of those measures that Law 3/2001, 26 March, of Maritime Fisheries of the State provides for the regulation of a ministerial order and when, among others, the new obligations established in the Common Fisheries Policy so require.

Likewise, the lists of marine species and habitats listed in Annex II of this royal decree may be modified by ministerial order in order to adapt them to Community or international regulations.

During the last year of the Management Plan, an assessment of the degree of compliance with the established conservation objectives will be carried out.

Final disposition fourth. Entry into force.

This royal decree will enter into force on the day following its publication in the "Official State Gazette".

Given in Madrid, on November 14, 2011.

JOHN CARLOS R.

The Minister for the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment,

ROSA AGUILAR RIVERO

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ANNEX II

AMP and ZEC Management Plan for El Cachucho

INDEX

1. Background.

2. Object.

3. Territorial scope.

4. Characterization of the media.

4.1 Geomorphological characteristics of the area.

4.2 Area oceanographic features.

4.3 Ecological and biological characteristics.

4.4 Characterization of the socio-economic environment.

5. Objectives and measures.

6. Regulation of uses and activities.

6.1 Fishing Activity (Fisheries Management Plan).

6.2 Access to genetic resources.

6.3 Regulation of extractive and energy use and use.

6.4 Navigation throttling.

6.5 Pollution prevention.

6.6 Marine garbage collection.

6.7 Tend of subsea cables and pipes.

6.8 Military Maniworks.

6.9 Tourism and wildlife observation activities.

6.10 Scientific Research.

6.11 Prevention of noise pollution.

6.12 Labors of surveillance, inspection and control.

7. Economic estimation and priorities.

8. Monitoring and Evaluation.

9. Citizen participation.

APPENDIX. List of marine species present in the AMP and in the ZEC of El Cachucho

1. Background

In June 2009, and in compliance with Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora, approval was proposed as a Place of Community importance (SCI) of the space called El Cachucho, with LIC code ES90ATL01. The proposal such as LIC was due to the presence of the type of natural habitat of community interest reefs (code 1170 of Annex I of Law 42/2007, of 13 December, of Natural Heritage and Biodiversity) and to the species of interest Community boba turtle (Caretta caretta) and mular dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) (Annex II to Law 42/2007).

The approval as LIC took place on 8 February 2011 by means of the publication in the Official Journal of the European Union (DOUE) of Commission Decision 2011 /63/EU of 10 January 2011 adopting, in accordance with the Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on a fourth updated list of sites of Community importance for the Atlantic biogeographical region.

Furthermore, in the framework of the Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Northeast Atlantic (OSPAR Convention), the inclusion of El Cachucho in the OSPAR Network of Marine Protected Areas was approved in June 2009.

2. Object

Through this management instrument, compliance with the provisions of Article 32 (2) of Law 42/2007 of 13 December 2007 and 28 of Law 41/2010 of 29 December of 29 December, thus guaranteeing the conservation and correct management of existing natural values in the area.

The management of the AMP and ZEC of El Cachucho will be governed, among others, by the following principles of action:

• Protect, conserve and recover biodiversity and ecological processes in the area;

• Ensure that the uses and uses of resources made in the area are compatible with the objectives of conservation of natural and cultural values;

• Contribute to the proper development of educational, recreational and scientific activities.

This management plan will apply to the two protection figures, AMP and ZEC, declared in the area of El Cachucho by this royal decree.

3. Territorial scope

The protected space called El Cachucho, formed by the AMP and the ZEC of the same name, of matching limits, is located to the north of the Iberian Peninsula, in the Cantabrian Sea, in front of the Asturian town of Ribadesella and a distance of 65 km from the coast in the 5th West longitude. The area is included in the Spanish Exclusive Economic Zone.

In biogeographical terms, the protected space of El Cachucho is located in the Lusitanica Province, and more specifically in the warm sub-province (code 15, Warm Lusitanean subprovince). According to the classification of the OSPAR Convention, it is located within Region IV (Bay of Biscay, Gulf of Gascua and Iberian coast).

In the protected space of El Cachucho and its surroundings, four main physiographic provinces can be distinguished, distributed in a cross-sectional profile of North-South orientation, in the slope of the Bank or Mount submarine (El Cachucho), Inner Basin and Lasse Canyon. These main bathymetric structures present an East-West direction, except for the first two sections of the canyon, North-South and North-South, respectively.

The average depth in this area can be set at around 500 m in the bank ceiling, 900 m in the inner basin, 2,000 m in the bottom of the canyon, the maximum is reached at around 4,000 m, at the foot of the slope in the face north of the bank.

The total area of the protected space is 234.950.16 ha, which includes the bank, with the main physiographic provinces, its slopes and the internal basin that separates it from the platform, of great ecological value.

Emphasize that, as stated in Resolution MEPC 121 (52), adopted on October 15, 2004 by the International Maritime Organization, the protected space of El Cachucho is included in the Marine Zone. Sensitive (ZMES) of the Western Waters of Europe.

4. Characterization of the media

4.1 Geomorphological characteristics of the area.

From the data of the reflectivity of the background, along with the bathymetry, seismic profiles and the granulometric analyses of the samples collected during the campaigns in the area (Project ECOMARG), the qualitative textual interpretation of the funds that make up the study area. 55% of the total area corresponds to funds, mainly in the case of systems of complex canyons and their tributaries located on the slopes of the bank and the Lastres canyon, with little cover of mud; 29% corresponds to more or less less flat with an important, homogeneous-looking sedimentary coverage observed in the Internal Basin; 14% corresponds to rock bottoms with outcrops of the same with low relief and poor coverage of unconsolidated sediments (sand fine), located mainly on the Bank's roof; and the remaining 2% to rock bottom in highlighting (see fig. 1). The area in general presents a low sedimentary coating, possibly due to the presence of important canyons, as it is an important route of transfer of sediment from the platform to the large funds. In addition, the different types of funds have been able to observe sedimentary forms generated by the interaction of background currents on unconsolidated sediments (usually sands), which seem to indicate an active hydrodynamics in this area. zone.

Sediments in the Bank's ceiling (the most somera area, 460-587 m) are made up of fine sand (medium diameter: 166-136 μm) of low organic content (2.7-3.5%). Those in the Internal Basin (820-1,028 m), which links the Bank with the adjacent continental shelf, are composed of sludge (9-28 μm) and organic matter (6.3-7.0%). All sediments present good oxygenation, from the surface to 6 cm, except in a station in the Inner Basin (820 m) where slightly reduced sediments were found in the deepest layer.

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4.2 Area oceanographic features.

The bank has important effects on the general circulation of water described in the area. The higher homogenization occurs in the taludes while in the bank it induces a distortion in the isopicnas (lines of equal density) to the level of the waters of the thermocline, and also to the level of the Mediterranean water, which is manifested from the 800 m depth. The roof of the bank influences the transformation of the Mediterranean water vein into the Cantabrian. Mediterranean water appears in the Inner Basin, and its effects may condition the differences found between the platform communities and the bank.

At the biological level, there are important faunistic differences between the bank's roof and the internal basin. The endobentonic compartment is very poor at the top of the bench due to the little thickness of the sedimentary layer and the low organic content. This means that the high biomass of leakers (brachiopods, bivalves, sponges, cnidaries) must be supported by marine snow, responsible for the production of this particular ecosystem. The origin of this organic particulate matter in suspension may be in the production areas located to the west of the bank, favored by the general dynamics of currents in the East, which characterize the Cantabrian Sea. This explains the presence of suprabentonic organisms and zooplankton near the bottom, which are the main contribution of biomass to the rest of the food chain.

4.3 Ecological and biological characteristics.

The Bank's particular geomorphological characteristics, along with the important dynamics of the surrounding waters, determine the enormous biological production of the area and explain its high biodiversity values. At the same time, the lower fishing pressure exerted in this area-with respect to the Cantabrian sea platform-has a positive influence on the levels of biomass and species richness.

Presence of featured habitats

The bank of El Cachucho is characterized by a wide variety of habitat types, resulting from its physiographic and geomorphological particularities, combined with the special dynamics of the marine currents of the Cantabrian sea at this place.

The types of habitats found in the bank of El Cachucho can be described using different classification systems. On the one hand, as it is a ZEC, the presence of the habitat type of community interest 1170 reefs, while the EUNIS classification system is used, can differentiate different types of habitats and communities. marine, all of them included within the depth habitats. For its part, the OSPAR Convention establishes a classification of habitat types.

According to the OSPAR Convention:

Four habitat types have been identified at the site of the 14 threatened or declining habitats of the OSPAR Convention List, namely:

1. Depth sponges aggregations (Deep-sea sponge aggregations),

2. Cold-water coral reefs (Lophelia pertusa reefs),

3. Underwater mountain communities (Seamounts),

4. Communities of pennatulas and megafauna excavator (Seapen and burrowing megafauna communities).

1) Both at the top of the Bank and in the internal basin have identified populations of large sponges. At the top, copies of the Geodia megastrella of up to 15 kg and large specimens of hexachinelide sponges (Asconema setubalense) in the form of a cup more than 1 m high have been found. In the inner basin they inhabit populations of the hexachinelide sponge Pheronema carpenteri, with considerable densities, of up to 750 individuals per hectare.

2) There is evidence of the presence of the cold water coral Lophelia pertusa in the rocky areas and the banks of the Bank. On the other hand, other coral species of great interest have been detected, both in the Bank and in the internal basin (Cariophyllia, Desmophyllum, Deltocyathus). Similarly, on the Bank's roof there are important populations of gorgonias (Callogorgia verticillata), which fulfill their "very sensitive" cataloging according to the criteria of Texel-Faial.

3) The Bank presents numerous geological, hydrological and faunistic similarities with the underwater mountains (seamount ecosystems), and with this category it appears in various forums specialized in this type of habitat vulnerable. One of the particular characteristics of the Bank is its closeness and relationship with the sea platform

Cantabrian, which implies a major continental influence that does not appear in the underwater mountains located in oceanic regions.

4) Pennatulaceous aggregations (Pennatula phhosphorea, Funiculina quadrangularis and Virgularia mirabilis) have also been listed in the Bank, mainly in the internal basin.

According to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992:

Taking as a reference the habitat types of Annex I of Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 (natural habitat types of Community interest whose conservation requires the designation of ZEC), we find: the habitat 1170 Reefs.

1170 Reefs:

The protected space of El Cachucho is characterized by the presence, within its perimeter, of the type of habitat of community interest 1170 Reefs, being considered as reefs all those hard substrates, included those covered by a thin layer of sediment, and whose origin can be both biogenic and geogenic.

The habitat 1170 Reefs is located on the rocky part of the Bank's roof, with the presence of structuring species such as the gorgony Callogorgy verticillata and the sponges Asconema setubalense and Geodia megastrella. Also known is the presence on the site of cold water coral reefs Lophelia pertusa, as specimens of this species have been collected during both the ECOMARG Project and the trawling and fishing gear. In the place, the exact distribution is not known and detailed mapping is not available in this respect when it is located in areas with very difficult sampling, such as the steep slopes located between 700 and 1,200 m.

Regarding the distribution of this habitat in El Cachucho, the most extensive area corresponds to the presence of the gorgony Callogorgia verticillata, usually accompanied by large sponges like the ones previously cited (see figure 2).

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According to EUNIS terminology:

The bank of El Cachucho has very similar characteristics to those of the subsea mountains, but it is located only 25 km from the continental shelf-platform in geological terms-from the Cantabrian sea, separated from It is an internal basin of only 850 m depth. It is therefore a mixed ecosystem between the continental slope edge and the underwater mountains, which is not very common on the European Atlantic continental margin.

Despite these particularities, it has been characterized as an underwater mountain framed within the types of depth habitats within the EUNIS classification system. However, this habitat classification system does not include some of those found in the area, so it has only been possible to reach the third hierarchical level, such as A6.4 and A6.5, which does not include the biogenic component and only make reference to the depth and type of background. All of the habitats found are covered in the type A6, as they correspond to deep funds of more than 200 m.

The breakdown of EUNIS habitats found at the site is as follows:

A. Marine habitats.

A6 Deep Funds.

A6.1 Rocky or artificial hard substrate in deep bottoms.

A6.11 Deep rock funds.

A6.14 Chants and rock blocks in deep backgrounds.

A6.2 Mixed Sediments in Deep Funds.

A6.22 Biogenic Gravas in Deep Funds.

A6.3 Arenas in deep backgrounds.

A6.31 Detritic Arenas in Batial Funds with Gryphus vitreus.

A6.4 Deep-sand muddy-sand.

A6.4? Communities of Atlantic muddy sand bottoms.

A6.5 Fangy deep funds.

A6.5? Communities of Atlantic muddy bottoms.

A6.6 Deep biogenic communities.

A6.61 Deep-water coral communities.

A6,611 Cold Water Corals (Lophelia pertusa).

A6.61? Cold-water gorgonias (Callogorgia verticillata).

A6,621 Depth Sponges Aggregation (Pheronema carpenteri).

A6.7 Deep-fund highlight structures.

A6.72 Undersea Mountains, Lomas and Banks.

A6,722 Communities of the tops of subs, mounds or benches within the mesopelagic zone.

A6,724 Flannals of Subsea Mountains.

A6.8 Graves and canons, channels and depressions of the continental shelf.

A6.81 Continental platform canons, channels, and depressions.

A6,811 Active Channels on the Continental slope.

A6.82 Deep-fund pits.

The highest level EUNIS habitats found at the site are described below. It should be noted that the structure of the bank is extremely complex (see figure of quality of funds) so many of these habitats are in mosaic form and are difficult to delimit space.

A6.1 Rocky or artificial hard substrate in deep bottoms.

A6.11 Deep Rocky Funds: They correspond mainly to those located on the roof of the bank. They are mainly alternated in a complex form with zones of sedimentary sandal of bathes with the presence of the brachiopod Gryphus vitreus (habitat A6.31). The biogenic habitat of the gorgony forest Callogorgia verticillatais located in certain areas.

A6.14 Rants and rock blocks in deep backgrounds.: It appears mainly in the lower region of the bank's slopes.

A6.2 Mixed Sediments in Deep Funds.

A6.22 Biogenic Graves in Deep Funds: It appears mainly in the lower region of the bank's taludes alternating with the A6.14 habitat.

A6.3 Arenas in deep backgrounds.

A6.31 Detritic Arenas in Batial Funds with Gryphus vitreus: It corresponds to a community of sandy substrate, characterized by the brachiopod Gryphus vitreus and the bivalbo Aurita Limopsis. Here they inhabit the bocanegra shark Galeus melastomus and the rooster Lepidorhombus boscii.

A6.4 Deep-sand muddy-sand.

A6.4? Communities of Atlantic muddy sand bottoms.

A6.5 Fangy deep funds.

A6.5? Communities of Atlantic Fangy Batial Funds: The internal basin located between the Bank of El Cachucho and the Cantabrian Sea platform, due to its powerful sedimentary hedge could be included within the A6.5 habitat. In this zone there are aggregations of depth sponges formed by the species Pheronema carpenteri, as well as communities of pennatulas composed by species such as Pennatula phosphorea, Funiculina quadrangularis and Virgularia mirabilis.

A6.6 Deep biogenic communities.

A6.61 Deep-water coral communities.

A6,611 Cold Water Corals (Lophelia pertusa): Presents very dispersed in the bank's slopes.

A6.61? Cold-water gorgonias (Callogorgia verticillata): It is partly due to the rocky area of the roof or top of the bank (A6.11) although the gorgonian forests are added in appropriate areas not occupying the entire rocky base. In these rocky areas with gorgonias are also associated large sponges such as the Geodia megastrella and Asconema setubalense.

A6,621 Depth Sponges Aggregations (Pheronema carpenteri): They are found mainly in the inner bank basin between 800 and 1200 m deep. It is largely due to the distribution of the A6.4 habitat in Figure 3.

A6.7 Deep-fund highlight structures.

A6.72 Subsea Mountains, Lomas and Banks: It corresponds to the entire underwater mountain building of El Cachucho. Within this one can differentiate multiple zones:

A6,722 Communities of the tops of subs, mounds or banks within the mesopelagic zone: It corresponds to the layer of water on the roof or top of the bench that interacts with the vertical migrations of the plankton.

A6,724 Flanches of the Subsea Mountains: It corresponds to the Bank's slope, both with its northern slope and with that adjacent to the inner basin or southern slope. The communities present in this area are characterized by the presence of the hedgehog Phormooma placenta and the rat fish Trachyrhinus scabrus. In addition, it is here that samples of the cold water coral Lophelia pertusahave been obtained, although no detailed mapping is available to locate the position of these biogenic reefs, given the great depth and the complex structure of the background in which these corals inhabit.

A6.8 Graves, canyons, channels, and depressions of the continental shelf.

A6.81 Continental platform canons, channels, and depressions.

A6,811 Active Channels on the Continental slope.

A6.81? Depressions by collapse.

In El Cachucho (Sanchez et al, 2008 and 2009) numerous habitats with structuring species that do not appear in the EUNIS nomenclature have been identified, so it has only been possible to reach the graph attached to the third hierarchical level (Figure 3). The habitat A6.61, referred to cold-water corals (level 4), is structured by the gorgony Callogorgia verticillata, although it also does not exist in EUNIS for the corresponding level 5, as if there is for the coral Lophelia pertusa (A6,611).

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It should be noted that at present, and in the framework of the Spanish Inventory of Habitats and Marine Species, work is carried out in the list of state reference patterns based on the classification of habitats established in the database. EUNIS.

The main activity developed at the site and which could have the greatest impact on the conservation of the natural values and habitat types represented in the Bank of El Cachucho is the fishing activity.

The ecosystem of El Cachucho bank includes extremely fragile habitats and populations. Some of the current methods of bottom fishing pose a potential danger to the fragile structure of many of the bank's biogenic habitats, as well as to the survival of many of their populations.

Within the fishing activity, the modalities of entrainment and gillle are the ones that exert the greatest impact in the area, causing damage to the habitats of bottom and their associated species, all of great ecological importance and low resilience. These types of fishing gear may cause damage to both the funds due to their own operation, and to the vagile species of the site, on the one hand because they are not selective in the case of trawls, and on the other hand, as a result of hooks or any loss of the nets, which may lead to accidental catches.

Other classifications contemplated at the site: Essential habitats (EFH)

It has also been considered as Essential Habitat for Fish (EFH), as it is a staging and recruitment area for numerous species of fishing and commercial interest.

At least three Essential Habitats (EFH) have been identified to date in the area of El Cachucho. This classification of habitats corresponds to the areas necessary for the support of the population of a certain species, since in them it carries out their enpositions, their recruitment, their growth, etc., or any decisive phase in their biology (mudas in crustaceans, for example). They do not have to be of fragile structure (such as coral reefs, carbonated mounds, etc.), in some cases they may be sedimentary funds. At least three fish stocks of commercial interest have been identified in the area of breeding adults: the lily (Micromesistius poutassou), the locha (Phycis blennoides) and the bottom cabracho (Trachycorpia crystallata) (see figure 4). The players of these three species are extremely scarce on the platforms of Galicia and the Cantabrian sea, which indicates that these habitats in El Cachucho are probably essential for their populations and consequently very little. necessary for the sustainable development of fisheries in adjacent areas (Cantabrian sea platform).

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Presence of outstanding species (1)

According to the OSPAR Convention:

Taking as a reference the "List of Endangered Species and Habitats and/or in Decline of the OSPAR Convention", at least four species are located in the area:

1. Dipturus batis.

2. Hoplostethus atlanticus.

3. Cetorhinus maximus.

4. Thunnus thynnus.

The noriega stripe (Dipturus batis) has been found in the inner basin. In this deeper area of the bank is where the presence of orange clock has also been located (Hoplostethus atlanticus). The pilgrim shark (Cetorhinus maximus) and the tuna (Thunnus thynnus) are components of the pelagic system in the area.

(1) The appendix to this document includes a list of marine species present in the AMP and in the ZEC of El Cachucho.

Furthermore, also in the framework of the OSPAR Convention, and following the criteria of Texel-Faial (2), the following species are considered to be of great importance for the conservation of biodiversity:

• Cold water corals (Lophelia pertusa).

• Lonely corals (Caryophyllia smithii, Desmophyllum dianthus, Deltocyathus sp.).

• Gorgonias and other antozoos (Callogorgia verticillata, Swiftia dubia, Acanella arbuscula, Alcyonum palmatum).

• Brachiopod/bivalve communities filter (Gryphus vitreus, Limopsis aurita).

• Populations of back-end elasmobranchs: sharks (Galeus melastomus, Deania calcaa, Etmopterus spinax, Centroscymus crepidater, Centroscymus coelolepis, Dalatias licha, Etmopterus pusillus, Etmopterus spinax, Scymnodom ringens) ystripes (Dipturus batis, Leucoraja circularis, Raja clavata, Rajilla fyllae).

• Trade interest pieces: white rape (Lophius piscatorius), lily or blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou), mud brothole (Phycis blennoides), red palettes (Beryx decadactylus and Beryx splendens), rooster (Lepidorhombus bosci), goats and bottom cabrachios (Helicolenus dactylopterus and Trachyscoria crystallata), orange clock (Hoplostethus atlanticus), besugo (Pagellus bogaraveo) and saber (Aphanopus carbo).

• Other bottom fish stocks: chimeras (Chimaera rosa and Hydrolagus mirabilis), macrurids (Trachyrhynchus scabrus, Coelorhynchus coelorhynchus, Coryphaenoides rupestris, Malacocephalus laevis, Nezumia sclerorhynchus) yalepocephalos (Alepocephalus rostratus, A. bairdii).

• Rare species of beaten fish: Borostomas antarcticus, Catatetyx alleni, Nessorhampus ingolfianus, Cyclophone braueri, Gonostoma bathyphylum, Halosaurus oveni, Bathypterois dubius and Nettoma melanurum, entertains.

• Giant Calamars: Architeuthis dux, Taningia danae.

(2) Criteria for the identification of species and habitats in need of protection and their method of application (Criterion of Texel-Faial). BDC. 03/10/1-E Annex 5.

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According to the European Habitats and Birds Directives:

Taking as reference Annexes II and IV to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora and Annex I to Directive 2009 /147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds, we found the following species present on the bench:

Birds

• Birds listed in Annex I to Directive 2009 /147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009:

Calonectris diomedea.

Hydrobates pelagicus.

Oceanodroma leucorhoa.

Larus melanocephalus.

Larus minutus.

Sterna sandvicensis.

Sterna dougallii.

Sterna hirundo.

Sterna paradisaea.

Puffinus puffinus mauretanicus.

• Migratory birds of regular presence not listed in Annex I to Directive 2009 /147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009:

Puffinus gravis.

Puffinus griseus.

Puffinus puffinus.

Stercorarius pomarinus.

Stercorarius parasiticus.

Stercorarius longicaudus.

Stercorarius skua.

Larus sabini.

Larus ridibundus.

Larus fuscus.

Larus michahellis.

Larus marinus.

Rissa tridactyla.

Uria aalge.

Alca toda.

Arctic case.

Morus bassanus.

Mammals

• A mammal listed in Annex II to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992:

Tursiops truncatus.

• Mammals listed in Annex IV to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992:

Stenella cohauleoalba.

Delphinus delphis.

Physetter macrocephalus.

Balaenoptera physalus.

Balaenoptera aquitrostrata.

Globicephala mela.

Ziphius cavirostris.

Ziphius spp.

Reptiles

• Reptilian as set out in Annex II to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992:

Caretta caretta * (priority species).

• Reptilian as set out in Annex IV to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992:

Dermochelys coriacea.

Fish

• Fish listed in Annex II to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992:

Alosa alosa.

Alosa fallax.

Highlight among this listing to Tursiops truncatus and Caretta caretta, animal species of community interest for whose conservation it is necessary to designate ZEC. Both species are included in Annex II of Law 42/2007, of 13 December, of Natural Heritage and Biodiversity and Annex II of Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992. In addition, Caretta caretta is considered a priority species in order to prioritize the rapid implementation of measures aimed at its conservation. The conservation of a priority species is a special responsibility for the Member States of the European Union.

Below are some aspects of certain species of vertebrate animals present in the area, most of which are included in the Annexes to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 and the Directive 2009 /147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009, as well as Royal Decree 139/2011 of 4 February 2011 for the development of the List of Wild Species in Special Protection Regime and the Spanish Catalogue of Species Threatened (LESRPE and EAEC).

Cetaceans

Cetaceans are a group of mammals whose presence is indicative of the degree of quality of the environment in which they live. For this reason, for the declaration of El Cachucho as a protected space, the presence of marine mammal species is considered to be of particular relevance. It should also be noted that all species of cetaceans require strict protection (Annex V to Law 42/2007 of 13 December and Annex IV to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992).

The faunistic richness in marine mammals is reflected in the great diversity of species sighted in the area, highlighting the presence of the mular dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), species of interest community, as well as common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) and delfin listed (Stenella euloeoalba), as these last two are the most abundant in the protected space. Of other species, such as the common calderon (Globicephala mela), Cuvier zifio (Ziphius cavirostris), cachalote (Physetter macrocephalus), or common rrorwhich (Balaenoptera physalus), there is a smaller number of records, and given the behavior habits they possess, their sighting is more complicated.

The mular dolphin is characterized by being very variable in terms of eating habits, behavior and social structure. Their diet includes cephalopods, crustaceans and different commercial fish of interest such as the lily (Micromesistius poutassou) and the fishcadilla (Merluccius merluccius). It is worth noting that the more robust and large ocean dolphin variety is more common in the protected space and its environment than the coastal variety, presenting both species differences in diet, morphology and genetics.

The common dolphin is abundant in the area, as it is reflected in the record of sightings. The groups are composed of 12.3 average individuals. Although its distribution is wide in depth, the species has a greater presence between the ranges 200-500m and 500-1,500m. Similarly, the number of varings recorded for this species is very high, both for natural causes and for accidental catches.

For its part, the delfin listed presents an average group size of 35.7 individuals in the area of the plateau, however its abundance and distribution is very irregular. It is worth noting that it is the second species with the highest number of registered varings, which makes it a regular presence even though the observations are not abundant.

Of other species, such as the common calderon, the Cuvier zifio or the sperm whale, there is less data about their presence in the area. These species spend most of the time submerged at great depths to feed themselves, so their surface sighting becomes more complicated. On the common calderon it is known that the group is constituted, on average, by 5.7 individuals. The existing information is, in many cases, derived from data collected from accidental varings and catches. With regard to the Zifio de Cuvier, the species has a more elusive character. Despite this, there has been a presence in the area, with greater abundance in the underwater cannons. The sperm whale is a species that must be taken into account in the zone, since El Cachucho is an important area for feeding these animals thanks to the presence of deep-depth cephalopods, one of its main dams. As for the common rorter, as in previous cases, its sighting is complicated, although the latest data obtained in the study area make it the most sighted species in the area with 48.57%. This species presents a mean group size of three individuals. This fact shows the importance of the protected space of El Cachucho for this species, either as a place of food or corridor in its migrations.

Finally, the common porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), included in Annex II to Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992, which has not been sighted in recent years in the area, should be mentioned. have recorded varings of this species (7%) on the Asturian coast during the period 2000-2005.

In general terms, it can be stated that the conservation status of cetaceans in the area is good, given that the threats to which they are subjected in El Cachucho and their surroundings are relatively less than those suffered by the coastal populations.

With regard to the activities that may affect the maintenance of the stocks, it is worth noting, on the one hand, the risk of accidental capture that exists for the exercise of the fishing activity, given that, although there is no fleet dedicated exclusively to the area, this is a usual fishing grounds. On the other hand, maritime traffic also poses a threat to the risk of collision with vessels, especially for large species.

Also, given that echolocation is vital for tasks such as food and reproduction, the realization of oil or seismic surveys, maritime traffic, military maneuvers, as well as other activities that involve the use of low frequency sonars or the carrying out of underwater explosions, they assume a source of noise pollution that could cause hearing injury or masking of the physiological signals, being particularly important for species such as zifios, animals especially sensitive to the waves

i) the use of the equipment for the use of the equipment and the use of the equipment;

Sea Turtles

In the protected space of El Cachucho and its surroundings, the presence of juvenile specimens in the passage of a loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) has been recorded during the spring and summer, especially in the month of August. of the summer's summer. In addition, it has been found that the majority of the sea turtles collected on the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula came from Caribbean coasts that followed the Gulf stream, that is, the turtles that arrive in Asturias belong to the American population that is considered to be "in danger" at the world level.

Another species spotted sporadically in the Cantabrian sea, especially in the autumn season (October-December), is the laud turtle (Dermochelys coriacea). The leatherback turtles recovered on the Asturian coast were subadult or adult specimens, which reinforces the hypothesis of migration through the Gulf stream.

Currently, no census data or loggerhead turtle or leatherback turtle data are available in the protected space area and its environment, so a contrasting analysis of the conservation status of any of these is not possible. two species in the area under study.

With regard to the activities that may affect sea turtle species, maritime traffic can be highlighted, since the area is a place for large vessels, which increases the risk of collision. In addition, the area of El Cachucho is a regular fishing grounds, so there is a certain risk of accidental capture, mainly in fixed and long-line gillnets.

Another threat to sea turtles is the pollution of the seas by plastics. These are ingested by mistaking them for the prey they feed on, causing them to occlusion the digestive tract, infections or lesions of the intestinal mucosa. They may also be entangled or trapped in the case of drifting fishing gear.

Seabirds

The protected space of El Cachucho is strategically located for the migration of sea birds. This is a very important area, mainly between late summer and early autumn, when the Cantabrian strip and Galicia concentrate a large flow of migratory birds coming from northern Europe and the North Atlantic. In addition, the area's oceanographic characteristics generate conditions conducive to the feeding of many of these species, especially the most pelagic ones.

Among the migratory species is the regular presence of the Cinderella (Calonectris diomedea), pardela pichoneta (Puffinus puffinus), pardela capirotada (P. gravis) and pardela sombre (P. griseus). The latter, from the southern hemisphere, is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It is also frequent, albeit in low numbers due to its more coastal habits, the balear (Puffinus mauretanicus). Special attention is being paid to being considered as the most endangered marine bird in Europe, listed as being in Critical Danger by IUCN. The European pain (Hydrobates pelagicus) and the boreal pain (Oceanodroma leucorrhora) also deserve attention. In the case of the European paino, the area should be considered important for the populations

reproducers of Cantabrian, in addition to the migrating specimens. During the migration, other regular species, often in important numbers, are the Atlantic alcatraz (Morus bassanus), the pomarino pagalos (Stercorarius pomarinus), parasite (S. parasiticus) and large (S. skua), the gaviotastonia (Larus fuscus), and the common charters (Sterna hirundo) and arctic (Sterna paradisaea). In smaller numbers, the rabero (Stercorarius longicaudus), the dwarf seagulls (Larus minutus), the black ringleader (L. melanocephalus), tridactyla (Rissa tridactyla) , and Sabine (Larus sabini = Xema sabini), and the skateboard charran (S. sandvicensis).

Outside of the migration peak, the area is also important as a feeding area for the European pain during the breeding season (summer), which presents important coastal colonies. In winter, the main species are the Atlantic alcatraz, the sombre seagulls, black and tridactyla (all of them with relatively pelagic habits, especially the tridactyla), and the frailecillo (arctic Fratercula), the latter mainly at the end of the season. The common arao (Uria aalge) and the common alca (Alca torda) may also appear, although they are usually more coastal.

There is very little detailed information on the conservation status of marine bird populations in the protected space of El Cachucho. Globally, seabirds support pressures and threats, both in the terrestrial environment, where they establish their breeding colonies, and in the marine environment, where there is interaction with fishing activity, maritime traffic, activities recreation, etc. In this respect, when El Cachucho is located in a marine area away from the coast, beyond the territorial sea, the activities developed in its field are greatly reduced, and therefore, the pressures, threats and associated impacts. However, the main activities which generally threaten the majority of the species of seabirds that frequent the area are known: fishing activity (accidental mortality and, more indirectly, overexploitation of prey) and maritime traffic (mainly pollution).

As for the impact of the fishing activity on the birds that frequent the protected space of El Cachucho, the mortality caused by longline arts must be taken with special seriousness, since it is a frequent practice. (both the bottom and the surface) and which affects some of the most unique species in the area, mainly the pardelas, which are hooked when trying to capture the bait during the line's draught. These are long-lived species with very low population growth rates, and therefore are very sensitive to factors that reduce their adult survival. It has been possible to ascertain the mortality in the area, at least, of the two southern species of pardela, the capyrotada and the sombre. As regards fishing for gillage, the use of synthetic nylon nets has been widespread in recent years. When they are broken, their fragments are practically undetectable by the birds underwater, causing tangles or being ingested by them by accident, causing them serious discomfort or even death. This condition is especially important in diving birds, such as alcatraz and arao.

The maritime traffic and the pollution resulting from it also pose a potentially significant threat to seabirds in the protected space of El Cachucho, especially in the hypothetical case of a spill. accidental, the consequences of which could be very serious.

4.4 Characterization of the socio-economic environment.

The fishing grounds (less deep zone of the bank, or roof), known by the fishing fleet of the Cantabrian as "El Cachucho", has been exploited since the late seventies and early eighties.

The references to the extractive tasks that took place and their importance are diverse. Although at some point the drag has acted in the area, it does not seem that they have gone from mere explorations that in no case led to the establishment of a stable fishery or exploitation. On the contrary, they existed until the mid-80's important sea bream fisheries (Pagellus bogaraveo) with longline and line, but they followed the destination of the continental shelf, disappearing by exhaustion of the resource. There was also a fleet dedicated exclusively to the capture of deep sharks. The fishery in the area ceased as the resource disappeared. At present there is no fleet dedicated exclusively to fishing in this fishing grounds, alternating with the rest of the fishing grounds of the platform.

Regarding maritime traffic, mention that, according to the data provided by the General Directorate of the Merchant Navy of the Ministry of Public Works, more than 9,000 merchant ships cross the area of study. Of these, 90% cross the area with east or west direction, while 10% of them did so with input or output direction to the port of Aviles.

Finally, with regard to the threats and pressures exerted by their influence on the protected space and their environment, note that paragraphs 5 (Objectives and measures) and 6 (Regulation of uses and activities) of this Management Plan collect the management measures, and the prohibitions and limitations of uses and activities necessary in order to avoid in the protected area the deterioration of the natural habitats and the habitats of the species, as well as the alterations that have an impact on the species that have motivated the designation of El Cachucho as a protected space.

5. Objectives and measures

The final objectives or proposed targets are directed to the maintenance or, where appropriate, the restoration in a favourable conservation status of the species and natural habitats present in the area, especially of the species that make up the benthic and ictic communities characteristic of the protected space and of the habitats and species of Community interest and of the species listed in the LESRPE, EAEC and the OSPAR List.

These general objectives are established to ensure the conservation of the ecosystems, habitats and elements of the fauna and flora that support the declaration of space as ZEC and AMP, and the restoration of the same in case required. In particular, the conservation of Tursiops truncatus and Caretta caretta, species of community interest for which ZEC is required to be designated, as well as the conservation of the natural habitat of community interest, will be ensured. Reefs.

These goals will not always be achieved during the period of implementation of the measures contained in the Management Plan, but will depend on the response time and evolution of the natural systems or the situation of the item.

For each of the goals, understood as the final objectives of the management, we specify the operational objectives that must be achieved during the term of the Management Plan to maintain or, if necessary, restore the state of favourable conservation of species and habitats in the shortest possible time, considering the available resources. In addition, the management measures that must be allowed to achieve these operational objectives are specified.

A. Favourable conservation status of habitats

Final objective 1: Complete the inventory of the natural habitat types present in the protected space and its environment, in particular the type of natural habitat of community interest reefs.

1.1 Operational objective: Delimitation, with greater spatial resolution, of vulnerable habitats, in particular of the rocky areas of the Bank's slope, the areas of greater depth of the Inner Basin and the head of the nearby Canon In addition to monitoring the effects of protection measures on biological communities, Lastres.

• Management measure: Generation of new bionomic mapping in order to complete the reference values that will serve as the basis for an assessment of the conservation status of the natural habitat type of interest Reefs, as well as their representativeness, continuously and durably in time.

1.2 Operational objective: Inventory of the characteristic species associated with the type of natural habitat of community interest reefs, present in the protected space.

• Management measure: Elaboration of studies of vagile communities in order to identify the characteristic species associated with the type of natural habitat of community interest reefs, as well as their representativeness.

1.3 Operational Objective: Geophysical characterization of protected space and identification of geological structures related to vulnerable biogenic habitats.

• Management measure: Elaboration of geophysical studies that will allow to expand the available information on the physical and structural diversity of the protected space and its environment, in order to define the reference values that will serve as a basis for an assessment of their current conservation status, as well as the monitoring of their future developments.

1.4 Operational objective: Dynamic characterization of the protected space and identification of the effects of the underwater mountain of El Cachucho on the general circulation of water.

• Management measure: Development of the study of the dynamics of the existing underwater currents in the area, which will allow to evaluate the influence of the general circulation of the waters on the type of natural habitat of interest Reefs, present in the protected space and its environment.

Final objective 2: Define the conservation status of the natural habitat types present in the protected space and its environment, in particular the type of natural habitat of community interest reefs.

2.1 Operational objective: Determination of the current state of conservation and analysis of the trend of the natural habitat type of community interest reefs present in the protected space.

• Management measures: Realization of a complete diagnosis of the current state of conservation of the natural habitat type of community interest reefs, and analysis of their evolution.

• Management measure: Elaboration of physical-chemical parameter measurement studies in the environment of the natural habitat of community interest Reefs.

2.2 Operational Objective: Valuation of the incidence of the anthropic pressures on the type of natural habitat of community interest Reefs.

• Management measure: Monitoring of the impact that the arts or equipment currently operating in El Cachucho have on the type of natural habitat of community interest. This study will be carried out in the framework of the Protected Space Fisheries Management Plan.

Final objective 3: Monitoring the conservation status of the natural habitat type of community interest reefs in the protected space and its environment.

3.1 Operational objective: Elaboration of protocols for monitoring the type of natural habitat of community interest reefs.

• Management measure: Program for monitoring the type of natural habitat of community interest reefs.

B. Favourable conservation status of the species

Marine Mammals

End Goal 1: Define the conservation status of marine mammal species present in the protected space and their environment.

1.1 Operational objective: Determination of the distribution and population sizes of marine mammal species present, in particular of the Community interest species Tursiops truncatus.

• Management measure: Realization of studies on the species of marine mammals present, in particular of the species of community interest Tursiops truncatus, aimed at knowing their abundance, distribution and higher concentration.

1.2 Operational Objective: Determination of the current state of conservation and analysis of the trends of marine mammal species, in particular of the Community interest species Tursiops truncatus.

• Management measure: Realization of a diagnosis of the current state of conservation of marine mammal species, in particular of the species of community interest Tursiops truncatus, and analysis of trends population.

1.3 Operational Objective: Assessment of the incidence of anthropic pressures on marine mammal species, in particular on the species of Community interest Tursiops truncatus.

• Management measure: Study of the impact of maritime traffic on marine mammal species due to collisions.

• Management measure: Study of the impact of fishing activity with surface gear or gear on marine mammal species due to accidental catches. This study will be carried out in the framework of the Protected Space Fisheries Management Plan.

• Management measure: Study of the impact that the uses and activities associated with the sighting of cetaceans have on marine mammal species.

1.4 Operational objective: Determination of the favorable reference population of marine mammal species present in the protected space and its environment, in particular of the species of community interest Tursiops truncatus.

• Management measure: Realization of studies to establish the favorable population of reference.

Final objective 2: Monitoring the conservation status of marine mammal species present in the protected space and its entro.

2.1 Operational objective: Elaboration of protocols for monitoring the conservation status of marine mammal species present, in particular of the Community interest species Tursiops truncatus.

• Management measure: A sighting program for marine mammals present, especially of the species of community interest Tursiops truncatus.

• Management measure: Programme to monitor noise levels generated by maritime traffic and other potential activities of impact in the protected area and its environment.

• Management measure: Program for tracking accidental catches and collisions that occur in the protected space and its environment.

Marine Reptiles

End Goal 1: Define the conservation status of sea turtle species present in the protected space and their environment.

1.1 Operational Objective: Determination of the distribution and population sizes of the species of sea turtles present, in particular of the species of Community interest Caretta caretta.

• Management measure: Realization of studies on sea turtle species, in particular the species of community interest Caretta caretta, aimed at knowing the number of individuals in step, frequency and time and areas of greater concentration.

1.2 Operational Objective: Determination of the current state of conservation and analysis of the trends of sea turtle species present, in particular of the Community interest species Caretta caretta.

• Management measure: Realization of a diagnosis of the current state of conservation of sea turtle species, in particular the species of community interest Caretta caretta, and analysis of trends population.

1.3 Operational Objective: Valuation of the incidence of the anthropic pressures on the species of sea turtles present, in particular on the species of Community interest Caretta caretta.

• Management measure: Study of the impact of maritime traffic on sea turtle species due to collisions.

• Management measure: Study of the impact that fishing activity with surface gear or gear exercises on sea turtle species due to accidental catches. This study will be carried out in the framework of the Protected Space Fisheries Management Plan.

• Management measure: Study of the impact of floating waste pollution on marine turtle species due to accidental ingestion.

1.4 Operational objective: Determination of the favorable population of reference of sea turtle species present in the protected space and its environment, especially of the priority species Caretta caretta.

• Management measure: Realization of studies to establish the favorable population of reference.

Final objective 2: Monitoring the conservation status of sea turtle species present in the protected space and their environment.

2.1 Operational objective: Elaboration of protocols for monitoring the conservation status of sea turtle species present, in particular of the species of community interest Caretta caretta.

• Management measure: Sea turtle sighting program, especially of the community interest species Caretta caretta.

• Management measure: Program for tracking accidental catches and collisions that occur in the protected space and its environment.

Seabirds

End Goal 1: Define the conservation status of the marine bird species present in the protected space and its environment.

1.1 Operational Objective: Determination of the distribution and population sizes of the species of marine birds present.

• Management measure: Realization of studies to define the patterns of distribution and abundance of the different species of birds within the study area and its surroundings, taking into account the variability seasonal.

• Management measure: Realization of studies to understand the patterns of abundance observed, spatial and temporally, according to the environmental characteristics of the study area and the ecology of the different species of birds.

1.2 Operational Objective: Valuation of the incidence of the anthropic pressures on the species of marine birds present.

• Management measure: A continuous monitoring programme to develop a study on the impact of fishing on seabirds due to accidental catches. This monitoring programme shall include on-board observers in order to develop a relationship with the catch of birds.

• Management measure: Once problems are identified, appropriate mitigation measures will be tested and incorporated, if relevant.

Final objective 2: Tracking the conservation status of marine birds present in the protected space and their environment.

Operational objective: Analysis and determination of the trends of marine birds present.

• Management measure: Programme of monitoring of marine bird species present in the long term.

Fish

End Goal 1: Define the conservation status of the ictic species present in the protected space and its environment.

The activities necessary to comply with this final objective will be developed in the framework of the Protected Space Fisheries Management Plan.

1.1 Operational Objective: Determination of the size and distribution by age of the populations of the present species.

• Management measure: Realization of studies on the present species, aimed at knowing, among others, the size and distribution by age of the populations.

1.2 Operational objective: Determination of the current state of conservation and analysis of the trends of the ictic species.

• Management measure: Realization of a diagnosis of the current state of conservation of the ictic species, and analysis of population trends.

1.3 Operational Objective: Valuation of the incidence of the anthropic pressures on the present species.

• Management measure: Study of the impact of the fishing activity on the present species.

• Management measure: Study on the activity of the longline fishery of the species Phycis blennoides in the area south of latitude 44th N and assessment of its sustainability.

Final objective 2: Track the conservation status of the ictic species present in the protected space and its environment.

2.1 Operational objective: Elaboration of protocols for monitoring the conservation status of the present species.

• Management measure: Programme of monitoring of the present species.

• Management measure: Programme for monitoring the yields of the exploitation of fish species of fish, as well as for discards.

Invertebrates

End Goal 1: Define the conservation status of invertebrate animal species present in the protected space and its environment.

1.1 Operational Objective: Determination of the distribution and sizes of the invertebrate animal communities present.

• Management measure: Realization of studies on the species and communities of invertebrates aimed at their abundance and distribution.

1.2 Operational Objective: Determination of the current state of conservation and analysis of the trends of the invertebrate animal communities present.

• Management measure: Realization of a diagnosis of the current state of conservation of invertebrate animal species and communities and analysis of trends.

1.3 Operational Objective: Valuation of the incidence of the anthropic pressures on the communities of invertebrate animals present.

• Management measure: Study of the impact of human activities on invertebrate animal species and communities.

Final objective 2: Monitoring the conservation status of invertebrate animal species present in the protected space and its environment.

2.1 Operational objective: Elaboration of protocols for monitoring the conservation status of the invertebrate animal communities present.

• Management measure: Programme for the monitoring of invertebrate animal species and communities.

C. Management support instruments

Final objective 1: Diagnose the situation of the socio-economic environment.

1.1 Operational Objective: Characterization of the socioeconomic activities that are developed in the study area.

• Management measure: Collect existing information in the different administrations, agencies and organizations competent in the fields of, inter alia, maritime traffic, sea fishing, and recreational and recreational activities tourism, in particular the observation of cetaceans.

• Management measure: Analyze the information collected in order to understand the trends and evolution of these activities in the medium and long term.

Final objective 2: To foster social knowledge and involvement in the conservation of protected space and its environment.

2.1 Operational objective: Disclosure of existing natural values in the area, the content and proposals of the management plan, and the relation of coastal populations close to traditional uses, as a means of achieving increased awareness of the need for their conservation and, therefore, greater social participation.

• Management measure: Distribution of divulgative material on the natural values present in the area, especially those that have motivated the declaration of space as ZEC, as well as on the main pressures and impacts.

• Management measure: Development of programs in schools and social centers on the natural values present in the area, especially those that have motivated the declaration of space as ZEC, as well as the main ones pressures and impacts.

Final objective 3: To promote, in coordination with the research body responsible for the scientific monitoring plan referred to in the third provision, lines of research to improve the knowledge of natural resources, as well as the effect on the natural environment of the different types of uses and uses established in the protected space and its environment.

3.1 Operational objective: Establishment of relations with the scientific community to develop lines of applied research in the area.

• Management measure: Promotion of scientific participation in the development of proposed management measures, as well as the exchange of information between research teams.

3.2 Operational objective: To promote research projects as an instrument to support the management of the area.

• Management measure: Support in the development of scientific studies aimed at achieving the management measures, inventory and knowledge of the conservation status of the natural values present in the area.

6. Regulation of uses and activities

In this section of the management instrument the guidelines, prohibitions and limitations of uses applicable to the marine space of El Cachucho are established.

1. Fishing activity.

Fishing Management Plan

Within the area between the coordinates that delimit the AMP by this royal decree, which are listed in Annex I, no fishing activity with trawling gear or any other gear may be practised. in contact with the fund, except for the exceptions contained in the following paragraphs.

A fisheries management plan is established through the regulation of a special fishing permit for those vessels-specified in the final paragraph of this Fisheries Management Plan-which have accredited activities aimed at the (Phycis blennoides) brothola capture by use of bottom longline between the years 2006 to 2008.

This activity will be subject to the following conditions:

• The permitted fishing activity may be exercised only south of the 44th parallel;

• The species covered by the fishing activity will be the bango (Phycis blennoides), and other associated species can be captured as a by-catch, provided that quotas are available for them in case of be regulated for capture;

• The only authorized art is the bottom line;

• Ships wishing to fish in the area must submit a written request to the Directorate-General for Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources of the Ministry of the Environment, and Rural and Marine Environment, in which the period for which they wish to have special fishing permit;

• Ships authorised by the special fishing permit must be provided with a system for the location of vessels via satellite, whatever their length;

• In order to monitor the fishery, the Directorate-General for Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources may, in agreement with the Spanish Oceanography Institute, designate an observer for the authorized period;

• Special authorisation shall be refused or withdrawn, in accordance with the criteria of the Directorate-General for Fisheries and Aquaculture, where the monitoring of the fishery may result in a negative impact of the activity on the maintenance of the population of sludge brootola in a favourable conservation status or when the natural resources protected in the AMP are adversely affected.

The use of those surface arts, such as surface longline, encirclement, cachea, and others that are not in contact with the bottom, is permitted.

All recreational fishing modalities for demersal species in the entire protected area of El Cachucho are prohibited.

The Directorate-General for Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources, in collaboration with the Spanish Oceanography Institute, prior to the report of the Technical Directorate of the Marine Protected Area, may authorize demersal fisheries of a character (a) scientific advice to monitor the fish stocks and crustaceans of the AMP.

The relationship of vessels that have operated with bottom-line art aimed at the mud-rock in the area of the cachucho in the years 2006 to 2008 and who will be able to request special fishing permits in the area are the following:

AINHOLARA: GI-8-7-95.

NUBERU: GI-6-4-01.

OUR MS. LINDES: ST-5-1-91.

NEW HNOS CORTABITARTE: ST-6-2-97.

NEW MERIMAR: GI-7-3-97.

NEW PARENT: GI-7-2-96.

2. Access to genetic resources.

Access to genetic resources in the whole area of the protected space and the sharing of the benefits derived from their use, will be made in accordance with the specific regulation that will be developed as a development of the article. 68 of Law 42/2007, of 13 December, and of the additional provision of Law 41/2010 of 29 December.

In any case, the collection of genetic resources will require the prior authorization of the Director General of Natural Environment and Forestry Policy, which will only issue it if it is adequately justified that such collection does not cause any injury to the maintenance of the resource in a favourable conservation status and that the distribution of the benefits associated with such an activity is adequately promoted.

3. Regulation of extractive and energy use and use.

Any type of activity for the exploration or exploitation of mineral resources and hydrocarbon deposits, as well as underground storage, shall be prohibited throughout the protected area. hydrocarbons, radioactive material and carbon dioxide.

All energy use in the protected space is prohibited, including the installation of power generation and distribution devices of any type.

4. Regulation of navigation.

Due to the relevance of the protected space for background habitats of community importance, and the populations of numerous species protected by national and international legislation, including sea turtles and cetaceans such as mular dolphin, sperm whale, calderons and various species of rrorwhich and zifios, it is recommended to avoid as far as possible the marine navigation in the protected space and its surroundings, and in any case, to sail in a maximum state surveillance.

The government, through the administrative channel, will initiate the process so that the recommendation contained in the previous paragraph will be presented to the Committee for the Protection of the Environment of the Maritime Organization. International for its international adoption.

To these effects, the Directorate General of Merchant Marine of the Ministry of Development will coordinate the interdepartmental actions necessary to include in the regulation of the Maritime Zone Especially Sensible (3) (ZMES), in the that the protected space is included, the necessary safeguards to ensure the proper conservation of the natural values object of protection, including in your case the declaration of Zone to Avoid within the corresponding ZMES.

(3) As stated in Resolution MEPC 121 (52), adopted on October 15, 2004 by the International Maritime Organization, the area of El Cachucho is covered in the Marine Zone Especially Sensible (ZMES) of the Western waters of Europe.

5. Prevention of pollution.

The prevention of marine pollution caused by ships will be carried out in accordance with the international conventions on the matter of which Spain is a party, specifically MARPOL and OSPAR and with the prescriptions contained in the Spanish legislation on pollution control and Law 41/2010 of 29 December.

Any type of spill in all protected space is prohibited.

6. Collection of marine litter.

In order to reduce the impact caused by marine litter and to encourage awareness about this important environmental problem between the fishing sector, the General Secretariat of the Sea, in collaboration with the public administrations, which shall implement programmes for the collection and proper management of waste trapped in the gear and gear used by fishermen operating in the marine area covered by protection. This will take into account Recommendation 2010/19 of the OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic, which develops this subject.

7. Laying of undersea cables and pipes.

As far as possible, and as set out in Article 79 (2) and (3) "submarine cables and pipes on the continental shelf" of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, it shall be avoided. the layout for the laying of undersea cables and pipes for any activity runs through the protected space, without prejudice to the freedoms set out in that Convention.

8. Military maneuvers.

It is forbidden to carry out military maneuvers involving the realization of underwater explosions and the use of anti-submarine sonars.

9. Tourism and wildlife observation activities.

The recreational, tourism and observation activities of cetaceans and other wildlife that are carried out in the protected space and their surroundings will be subject to the specific regulation that is applicable in each case, in particular Royal Decree 1727/2007 of 21 December establishing measures for the protection of cetaceans and Law 41/2010 of 29 December in Article 3 (4) thereof.

Companies that engage in commercial exploitation of tourism in the protected area must have a permit issued by the Director General of Natural Environment and Forestry Policy. Such permission may lay down specific conditions for the exercise of the activity if it is deemed necessary to ensure the favourable conservation status of natural resources and wild species.

10. Scientific research.

The activities of scientific research may be carried out in the protected area, subject to the authorization of the Director General of the Natural Environment and Forestry Policy. Such authorisation shall refer to limitations on the use of study techniques which may be considered to be incompatible with the conservation objectives set out in this royal decree.

The use of compressed air cannons in the protected space is prohibited. Their use may only be authorised in exceptional circumstances where it is essential for the achievement of the objectives set out in the scientific study, and their safety is expressly guaranteed for the wild species present in the study. protected space, as set out in the objectives and associated measures of this royal decree.

11. Prevention of noise pollution.

In addition to the prohibitions and limitations set forth in the above points, it is prohibited in the entire scope of the protected space, to use active sonar systems for any purpose other than the military, as well as the emission of sounds and the use of horns which may disturb the tranquility of the animals, unless they are used for safety or emergency reasons.

12. Surveillance, inspection and control tasks.

In the field of competence of the General Administration of the State, the Ministry of the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment will establish the relevant agreements with the competent departments, especially the Ministries of Defense, Interior and Development, to ensure the proper development of the tasks of surveillance, inspection and control of the measures provided for in this royal decree, as well as of lifting the corresponding reports of denunciation.

The Ministry of the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment shall, where appropriate, have the necessary measures to carry out the surveillance, inspection and control tasks that correspond to it, through, inter alia, the competent bodies. of the General Secretariat of the Sea.

7. Economic estimation and priorities

The measures set out in the Management Plan, including the regulations set out in point 6, will not entail an additional cost, being developed with the existing own resources of the Public Administrations. involved.

Within the proposed general objectives, those measures that involve direct intervention on the natural values for which the protected space has been declared, as well as its principal objectives, will be priorities. pressures and threats, with the implementation of these measures subject to general budget availability.

8. Monitoring and evaluation

For the correct assessment of conservation measures for the protected area of El Cachucho, a monitoring system will be established based on the indicators listed in the table below, which will determine the effects of the implementation of the management measures, as well as the achievement of the operational objectives set out.

The monitoring system will be based on the monitoring programme to be developed in the framework of the relevant marine strategy, so that the protected area is established as a reference area for monitoring and assessment of the state of the marine environment in the North Atlantic Marine Demarcation. In any case, the indicators set out in the attached table shall be updated in such a way as to be compatible with the monitoring programme referred to.

Here are several images in the original. See the official and authentic PDF document.

9. Citizen participation

As set out in the fifth additional provision of this royal decree, the holder of the Ministry of the Environment, and the Rural and Marine Environment, by ministerial order, may constitute and regulate the necessary organs to ensure the appropriate participation in the management of the AMP of El Cachucho.

APPENDIX

List of marine species present in the AMP and the ZEC of El Cachucho

Larus Argentatus.

Physetter macrocephalus.

alleni.

Lophius piscatorius.

Oneirodes sp.

Amphilochus manudens.

Argissa hamatipes.

Autonoe viduarum.

Bathymedon acutifrons.

Bybels guernei.

Crustaceans

Carangoliopsis spinulose.

Cumellosis helgae.

Diastylis cornuta.

Eusirus sp.A.

Gnathia albescens.

Harpinia laevis.

Hyssura cf. product

Ilyarachna polita

Iphimedia

Lepidepecreum typhlops.

Lepto_table_table_izq">Leptanthura tenuis.

Lestigonidae unid.

Leucon (Epileucon)

pusillus.

Macrostylis spinifera.

Makrokylindrus josephinae.

Mediteexis mymounts.

Melphidippa sp.A.

Munella danteci.

Mysidetes Farrani.

Orchomene pectinatus.

sedentary.

Pontophilus spinosus.

Procampyllespis macronyx.

Sophorosyne sp.

Stenothoe sp.B.

Synchelidium haplocheles.

Syrhoites sp.

Syrhoites sp. A.

Unciola planipes.

Dentalium sp.

Helicocranchia pfefferi.

.

Spirotropis monterosatoi.

Spondylus gussonii.

Thyasira sp.

Tornus sp.

Sphaeroturia talismani.

Aponupis.

Aricia sp.

Pectinaria sp.

Alcyonium palmatum.

Alcyonium palmatum.

.

Phakellia.

Stylocoryla borealis.

rowspan="7">

Brachiopods

	Scientific Name
		Alca torda.
		Alle alle.
		Calonectris diomedea.
		Chilidinonias niger.
	Larus Argentatus
		Larus Argentatus.
	Larus fuscus graellsii-intermedius.
		Larus marinus.
		Larus melanocephalus.
	Larus michaellis.
		Larus minutus.
		Larus ridiculous.
	Larus sabini.
	Morus bassanus.
	oceanicus Oceanites.
		oceanicus Oceanites.
	Oceanodroma leucorhoa.
	Puffinus assimilis.
		Puffinus gravis.
	Puffinus griseus.
Puffinus mauretanicus.
Rissa tridactyla.
	Stercorarius longicaudus.
	Stercorarius pomarinus.
		Sterna dougalli.
	Sterna hirundo.
	Sterna paradisea.
Sterna sandvicensis.
	Uria aalge.
	mammals	Aquitrostrata Balaenoptera.
			Balaenoptera physalus.
			Delphinus delphis.
			Globicephala mela
			Stenella euloeoalba.
	Tursiops truncatus.
Ziphius cavirostris.
Reptiles	Caretta caretta.
	Dermochelys coriacea.
Condricts
	Centroscymus coelolepis.
	Dalatias licha.
		Sock Deania.
	Deania profundorum.
	Dipturus batis.
	Etmopterus pusillus.
		Etmopterus spinax.
		Galeus atlanticus.
	Galeus melastomus.
		Hydrols mirabilis.
	Leucoraja circularis.
		Oxynotus paradoxus.
	Rajella fyllae.
		Scymnodom ringens.
	Osteicts
		Aldrovandia phalacra.
	Alepocephalus bairdii.
		Alepocephalus rostratus.
	Argyropelecus hemigymnus.
	Argyropelecus olfersii.
	Bathypterois dubius.
		Beryx decadactylus.
Beryx splendens.
Centrolophus niger.
	Ceratoscopelus timber.
Fish	Chauliodus sloani.
		Chlorophthalmus agassizii.
	Coelorhynchus coelorhynchus.
	Conger conger.
	Coryphaenoides rupestris.
	Cyclophone braueri.
	Diaphus sp.
		Entelerus aequoreus.
		Epigonus telescopus
	Gadiculus argenteus.
	Gadomus disparate.
		Gaiidropsarus macrophthalmus.
	Gonostoma bathyphilum
		Gonostoma elongatum.
	Halargyreus johnsonii.
		Halosaurus ovenii.
	Helicolenus dactylopterus.
		Hoplostethus atlanticus.
		Hoplostethus Mediterraneus.
		Hymenocephalus italicus.
		Lampanyctus crocodilus.
		Lepidon
	Lepidorhombus bosci.
	Leptoderma macrops.
		Lobianchia gemellarii.
	Malacocephalus laevis.
	Melagnogtima atlantique.
	Melanonus zugmayeri.
	Merluccius merluccius.
		Micromesistius poutassou.
		Molva macrophthalma.
	Mora moro.
	Nemichthys scolopaceus.
		Neoscopelus macroepidotus.
		Nessorhampus ingolfianus.
		Nettlastoma melanurum.
	Nezumia aequalis.
	Notacanthus bonapartei.
	Notoscopelus kroeyerii.
		Odontostomops normalops.
	Paraliparis membership.
	Paraliparis membership.
		Phycis blennoides.
		Polyacanthonatus rissoanus.
		Polymetne corythaeola.
	Searsia koefoedi.
Serrivomer beani.
	Stomies boa.
	Synaphobranchus kaupi.
Thunnus alalunga.
Thunnus thynnus.
	Trachurus trachurus.
	Trachyrhynchus scabrus.
		Trachycorpia crystulata echinata.
	Trigla lyra.
	Xenodermichthys copei.
crustaceans	Abludomelita aculeata.
		Acantehyra.
		Acanthaspiidae sp.A.
		Aega cf. monophthalma.
		Aega ventrosa.
		Agathotanais ingolfi.
	Amblyops spinifera.
	Amblyops tenuicauda.
	Amblyops trisetosa.
	Ampelisca aequicornis.
	Ampelisca pusilla.
	Ampelisca uncinata.
	Amphilochoides boecki.
	Amphilochoides cf. serratipes.
		Anapagurus laevis.
	Appseudes spinosus.
	Arcturop_table_izq">Arcturopsis sp.A.
	Aristeus antenatus.
	Aristias negectus.
	Arris Mediterraneus.
		Aspidarachna cf. clypeata.
	Astyra abyssi.
	Atelecyclus rotundatus.
	Autonoe viduarum
		Bathyamaryllis pulchelus.
	Bathycopea typhlops.
	Bathymedon brenostre
		Bathymedon longirostris.
		Bathymedon monocoulodiformis.
		Bathynectes maravigna.
	Belonectes parvus.
	Bonnierella cf. abyssorum.
		Archaic Boreomysis.
	Boreomysis megalops.
	Boreomysis tridens.
	Calliopidae sp.A.
Calocaris macandrae.
	Crustaceans
			Campyllass cf. alba.
			Campylaspis glabra.
			Campylappis appallers.
		Campylpis sulcata.
			Campyllass verrucits.
		Campylaspis vitreous.
		Carangoliopsis spinulose.
			Ceratocuma horrified.
			Chaceon affinis.
		Chelator insignis.
			Chevreuxius grandmanus.
			Chunomysis diadema.
		Cleonardopsis carinata.
		Colletea cf. cylinerata.
			Conilera cyacinacea.
			Cryptocopoides arcticus.
		Cumella (Cumella) sp.A.
		Cumella (Cumella) sp.B.
			Cyclaspis longicaudata.
		Cyclassoids sarsi.
			Cymonomus granulatus.
			Cyphocaris anonyx.
			Dactylamblyops goniops.
			Dactylamblyops thaumatops.
		Dactylerythrops dimorpha.
			Diastylis sp.A.
			Diastyloides bacesoni.
				Dicelopalandus bonnieri
			Disconnects latirostris.
		Phalangium Disconnects.
			Disconnects sp.A.
		Dorynchus thompsoni.
		Dulicopsis nordlandal.
			Ebalia.
		Ebalia nux.
		Echinepleura aculeata.
			Echinozone sp.A.
			Ephirina figueirai.
		Epimeria cornigera.
Epimeria parasitica
	Ergasticus clouei.
Erythrops Neapolitan.
Eupcopy hanseni.
truncatula Eudorella.
Crustaceans	Euphausia krohni.
		Eurycope complanata.
		Eurydice grimaldii.
		Eurynome aspera.
	elegans.
		Eusirus biscayensis.
		Eusirus leptocarpus.
	Eusirus sp.A.
		Galathea strigosa.
		Gammaropsis sp.
		Gennadas elegans.
		Geryon trispinosus.
	Gitana sp.A.
	Gitana sp.B.
		Gnathophausia zoea.
		Halice abyssi.
	Halicoids failed
		Halicreion aequicornis.
		Haplumesus longiramus. New SP.
	Harpinia.
	Harpinia latipes.
	Hemilamprops assimilis.
	Hemilamprops cf. normani.
		Hemilamprops crystatus.
		Hemilamprops uniplicatus.
	Hippomedon sp.
		Ileraustroe illergetes.
		Ilyarachna longicornis.
	Iphimedia obesa.
	Iphimediidae unid.
		Ischnomesus bisinsus.
	Ischnomesus sp.A.
	Janirella hessleri.
	Janirella nanseni.
		Jassa sp.
	Laetmatophilus tuberculatus.
		Laphystiopsis planifrons.
	Lepechinella manco.
	Leptanthura chardyi.
Leptophoxus falcatus.
Leptostylis longimana.
Leptostylis macrura.
Leptostyl_table_izq">Leptostylis sp.A.
Leucon (Crymoleucon) sp.A.
Crustaceans	Leucon (Crymoleucon) sp.B.
	Leucon (Epileucon)
	Leucon (Epileucon) sp.A.
	Leucon (Leucon) affinis.
	Leucon (Macrauloleucon) siphonatus.
	Leuconidae unid.
	Leucothoe sp.A.
	Liocarcinus debug.
	Lipomera (Lipomera) cf. lamelata.
		Lipomera (Paralipommera) sp.A.
	Lipomera (Tetracope) sp.A.
	Lipomerinae sp.A.
		Liropus cachuchoensis. New SP.
		Lysianassa plumosa.
		Macropipus tuberculatus.
	Macrostylis sp.A.
	Makrokylindrus longicaudatus.
		Makrokylindrus longipes.
		Makrokylindrus tubuloicauda.
		Meganyctiphanes.
	Melphidippa cf. Macrura.
	Melphidippa sp.B.
	Meromonacantha cf. macrocephala.
		Mesolamprops denticulatus.
		Metaciroana hanseni .
		Metacrangon jacqueti.
		Metambasia faerensis.
		Metaphoxus simplex.
		Monoculodes acutipes.
		Monoculodes latissimanus.
		Monoculodes packardi.
	Munella danteci.
	.
		Munida Farsi.
	Munida tenuimana.
		Munna cf. minute.
		Munneurycope murrayi.
		Munnopsis beddardi.
	Munnopsurus atlanticus.
	Munnopsurus cf.		Munnopsurus sp.A.
	Mysideis parva.
Mysidella biscayensis.
	Mysidopsis sp.A.
	Nannastacus atlanticus.
Crustaceans		Natatolana borealis.
	Nematobrachion boopis.
	Nematoscelis megalops.
	Nephrops norvegicus.
		Nephrosis Atlantic.
		Nicippe lying.
		Notoxenoides sp.A.
	Nyctiphanes couchi.
		Oedicomios pilosus.
		Oedicalidersp.A.
		Oediceropsis brevicornis.
	Och_table_table_izq">Oedicerotidae sp.A.
	Orchomene cf.
	Orchomenella nana.
	Pagurus alatus.
		Pagurus carneus.
		Pagurus excavatus.
	Pagurus prideaux.
	Pandalin
		Parampylass platycarpus.
	Paracentromedon crenulatum.
		Paralamprops orbicularis.
	Parambyops rostrata.
	Paramunna bilobata.
		Paranarthura crassa.
		Paranthura Santiparrai. New SP.
		Paranthuridae sp.A.
		Parapagurus pilosimanus.
	Parerythrops obese.
		.
	Parvipalpus major.
	Perioclodes longimanus.
		Phlocheras echinulatus.
	Photidae unid.
		Platysympus typicus.
		Plesionika martia.
	Politolana sanchezi. NEW SP.
		Polybius henslowi.
		Polybius tuberculatus.
	Pontophilus norvegicus.
	Pontophilus spinosus.
	Primno brevidens.
Procampyllpis armata
	crustaceans
Procampyllpis omnidion.
		Procampyllpis sp.A.
	Procampyllpis sp.B.
	Processa nouveli.
		Psathyrocaris infima.
		Pseudharpinia excavata.
		Pseudo sp.A.
	Pseudogerda sp.
		Pseudomma affine.
		Pseudomma kruppi.
		Pseudojerk bouvieri.
	Pulcherella cf. pulcher.
		Rachotropis faero.
		Rachotropis grimaldii.
	Rachotropis palporum.
		Rachotropis rostrata.
	Rochinia carpenteri.
	Sarsinebalia typhlops.
	Scalpellum scalpellum.
		Schizocuma sp.A.
		Schizocuma spinocatum.
	borealis.
		Scopelocheirus hopei.
		Sergestes arcticus.
		Sergia.
	Sifhonoecetes sp
	Spongicoloids koehleri.
	Stenothoe sp.A.
		Stenothoe sp.B.
		Stenula rubbrovitata.
		Stephonyx biscayensis.
	Stephonyx talismani.
		Stereomastis sculptus.
		Stilipes sp.A.
		Styllocheiron longicorne.
	Styloptocuma gracillimum.
		Synchelidium maculatum.
	Syrhoe affinis.
	Syrhoites walkeri.
		Systemellaspis weakens.
Themisto compressa.
Thyssanoessa longicaudata.
Thysanopod acutifrons.
	Tmetonyx similis.
Crustaceans	Tmetonyx sp.A.
	Tmetonyx.
		Tryphosella caecula.
		Tryphosella insignis.
		Tryphosella laevis.
		Tryphosites alleni.
		Typhlotanais aequiremis.
		Typhlotanais sp.A.
	Typhlotanais tenuimanus
	Unciola planipes.
	Unciolella lunata.
	Urothoidae sp.A.
		Vaunthompsonia crystata.
	Vemakylindrus hastatus.
Vibilia armata.
	Westwoodilla caecula.
Molluscs		Open alba.
	Open longicallus.
	Antalis agilis.
	Aplacophoran unid.
		Aporrhais sersireanus.
		Arca nodulosa.
		Arca.
		Arcacidae unid.
		Architeuthis dux.
		Argobuccinum olearium.
	Bathwater sp.
	Bathypolipus sponsalis.
		Cadulus sp.
	Callumbonella suturale.
		Colus gracilis.
		Cuspidaria cuspidata.
		Cuspidaria rostrata.
	Delectopecten vitreus.
	Dentalium sp.
		Devonia perrieri.
	Dosinia sp.
		Emarginula crassa.
	Epitonium clathrus.
	Helicocranchia pfefferi
		Helicocranchia pfefferi
	Histioteuthis reverse.
	Illex coindetii.
		Limaria sp.
	Limidae unid.
	Lucinidae unid.
	Lunatia sp.
		Lyonsia formosa.
Margarites sp.
Molluscs	Modiolus modiolus.
	Montacutidae unid.
		Nuccula sp.
	Nuculana sp.
		Octopus defilippi.
		Octopus healthi.
		Odostomy sp.
	Opistoteuthis agassizii.
	Pectinidae unid.
	Polycord gemma.
	Poromya granulata
		Rossia macrosoma.
	Roxania utriculus.
	Scaphander ligarius.
	Sepietta oweniana.
	Sepiola sp.
		Taningia danae.
	Thyasira sp
	Todarodes sagittatus.
	Todaropsis eblanae.
	Trophon echinatus.
	Troschelia berniciensis.
Turritela communis.
	Yoldiella sp.
Equinoderms	Amphiura chiajei.
	Amphiura filiformis.
		Anseropod placenta.
		Antedon bifida.
	Araeosoma fenestratum.
	Asteronyx loveni.
		Astroecten irregularis.
	Benthogone rosea.
	Brisingella coronata.
	Cidaris cidaris.
		Echinocardium cordatum.
		Echinocyamus pusillus.
	Echinus acutus.
	Echinus alexandrii.
	bloody Henricia.
	Laetmogone violacea.
	Leptosynapta inhaerens.
	Luidia sarsi.
	Molpadia sp.
		Nymphaster arenatus.
		Ophiocten sericeum.
		Ophiothrix fragilis.
		Ophiura affinis.
Equinoderms	Ophiura albida.
	Peltaster placenta.
		Phormosome placenta.
	Pontaster tenuispinus.
		Porania.
	Poraniomorpha sp.
		Pseudoporania stormii.
		Psolus squamatus.
	Sphaeroturia talismani.
		Stichastrella rosea.
	Stichopus tremulus.
Tethyaster subinermis.
	Zoroaster fulgens.
Anelids	Ampharetidae unid.
	Ampharete sp.
	Ancistrosyllis sp.
	Aponuphis Brementi
	Aricia sp.
		Aricidea sp.
	Chloeia venusta.
		Cossura sp.
		Unvegan Eunice.
	Exogone sp.
	Glywax sp.
	Goniada sp.
	Harmothoe sp.
		,		Laetmonice filicornis.
	Monticellina sp.
		Myriochele sp.
		Nephtys sp.
	Notomastus latericeus.
		Ophelina cytomicaudata.
	Owenia sp.
	Paraonis sp.
	Pherusa sp.
	Phyllochaetopterus sp.
		Phyllotwelve sp.
	Pilargidae unid.
	Track.
	Sabellidae unid.
	Scoloplos sp.
	Sphaerodoropsis minute.
	Sphaerosyllis sp.
	Spio sp.
Anelids	Spiophanes sp.
		Syllis sp.
	Terebellides stroemi.
	Vermiliopsis sp.
Cnidaries	Actinauge richardi.
	Anthomastus grandflorus.
		Anthomastus purpureus.
	Anthothe_table_izq">Anthothela grandiflora
		aurita.
		Balanophyllia cellullosa.
		Ballanophyllia thalassae.
	Bolocera sp.
	Callogorgy verticillata.
		Caryophyllia smithii.
	Deltocathus sp.
	Desmophyllum crystallalli.
		Eguchipsammia cornucopia.
	Epizoanthus embed.
		Epizoanthus paguriphilus.
	Flabellum macandrewi.
	Funiculina quadrangularis.
		Hormathia sp.
		Lophelia pertusa.
	Parerythropodium coralloids
		Pennatula phosphorea.
	Pennatula rubra.
	Periphylla periphylla.
	Phelliactis
mirabilis.
Porients	Asconema setubalense.
	Bubaris vermiculata.
	Craniella cranium.
	Desmacella annexa.
		Desmacella inornata.
	Geodia megastrella.
	Hymedemia paupertas.
		Pachastrella monilifera.
	robust Phakellia.
		Phakellia ventilabrum.
	Pheronema carpenteri.
		ambiguous Plocamionida.
	Podospongia loveni.
Polymastia polytylota.
Regadrella Phoenix.
Porients	Sphinctrella gracilis.
	Tentorium semisuberites.
		Thrombus abyssi.
Vulcanella gracilis.
	Tuned	Iasis zone.
Sertella beanian.
Crania failed.
	Dallina septigera.
	Gryphus vitreus.
Megerlia echinata.
	Megerlia truncata.
	Anomioid Platidia.
	Terebratulina sp.
Picnogonids	Anoplodactylus typhlops.
		Callipallene phantoma.
		Callipallene producta.
	Cilunculus alcicornis.
	Cilunculus europaeus.
		Nymphon tricuspidatum. New SP.
		Phoxichilidiidae unid.
Sipunctures	Onchnesoma steenstrupi.
		Onchnesoma steenstrupi.
		Phascolion strobii.
	Sipunculus norvegicus.