A twinning between Ventotene and Ischia for the protection of the canyon of Cuma

Abstract

The International Union for Conservation of Nature recognised the islands of Ischia and Ventotene and the underwater canyon system of Cuma as an Important Marine Mammal Area. The canyon represents a critical habitat for cetaceans, particularly sperm whales, whose Mediterranean subpopulation is classified as "Endangered" on the Red List. In addition to this, the coastal waters of Ischia and Ventotene are Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): MPA Regno di Nettuno and MPA Isole di Ventotene e S. Stefano. In 2021, the two MPAs established a Twinning to create a joint archive of environmental data. Oceanomare Delphis was responsible for monitoring cetaceans in the area. The campaign occurred during the winter and spring months of 2021 and 2022. During 32 trips (1450 km, 217 hours), there were 46 sightings of cetaceans. This collaboration represents a significant step in the shared management and protection of marine resources by different MPAs.