BIODIVERSITÀ MEDITERRANEA: UN PATRIMONIO IN TRASFORMAZIONE

MEDITERRANEAN BIODIVERSITY: AN EVOLVING ECOLOGICAL HERITAGE

Abstract

Although the Mediterranean Sea covers less than 1% of the global ocean surface, it hosts about 18% of the world’s marine biodiversity, making it a planetary ecological hotspot. However, this richness is increasingly threatened by anthropogenic pressures and climate change, which are accelerating the loss of species, habitats, and ecosystem functions. Major stressors include ocean warming, the spread of non-indigenous species, overexploitation of resources, pollution, and habitat fragmentation. These processes reduce ecosystem resilience and undermine essential services that support human well-being. The Mediterranean is therefore approaching potential ecological tipping points that could lead to irreversible changes. To address these challenges, innovative approaches are required, based on Marine Protected Areas, nature-based solutions, advanced technologies, and participatory governance models. Safeguarding Mediterranean biodiversity is crucial to ensure the ecological and socio-economic stability of the entire region.