GES not determined at sub-regional level as laid down in Article 3 (5) (b) of the MSFD, notwithstanding the D4 has been assessed in the context of Article 8 by analysing the statistical trends and distribution of the indicators used to assess criteria D4C1 and D4C2, considering that if the trend of used indicators is increasing or constant and the trend in the overall three trophic groups as a whole is similar, there are no significant anthropogenic pressures and GES is achieved.

All elements of the marine food webs, to the extent that they are known, occur at normal abundance and diversity and levels capable of ensuring the long-term abundance of the species and the retention of their full reproductive capacity.