The U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service has begun a 5-year review of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) under the U.S. Endangered Species Act . The purpose of this review is to ensure that the listing classification of the species is accurate. The 5-year review has to be based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review. Therefore, NMFS requests submission of any such information on Mediterranean monk seals that has become available since their original listing as endangered in June 1970. Any information has to be received no later than October 31, 2016. However, NMFS will continue to accept new information about any listed species at any time.