it is based on an exhaustive compilation of data on the distribution of vme indicator species including published and unpublished data and new data gathered during the project from areas where information is sparse an overview of the approaches and methodologies for mapping of vme distribution is presented eleven vmes are identified based on management goals for coral and sponge communities present in the study area a risk analysis is conducted based on the modelled distribution of vmes and its cooccurrence with high fishing intensity the report discusses the uncertainty associated with modelled distributions and fishing pressure estimates and management implications areas where information on vmes is lacking are identified and the need for more detailed knowledge on the distribution of human activities is discussed