Biologia Marina Mediterranea is a journal of Italian Society for Marine Biology.
Copyright (c) 2025 Biologia Marina Mediterranea
Sostenibilità e resilienza della pesca italiana nel Mediterraneo in cambiamento
Fishing is a traditional activity with deep roots in Italian coastal communities. It provides healthy food and contributes significantly to local economies. In recent decades, the fisheries development model, based on increasing the fishing effort, has demonstrated its inherent limitations. Consequently, the sector has been compelled to embark upon a process of profound transformation, driven mainly by the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). This contribution presents the main issues characterising the current situation of Italian fisheries within the framework of rules of the European Union and the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean. Subsequently, a number of key factors are analysed to support a new development strategy for the sector that takes into account the increasing necessity for sustainability and resilience, while also considering the ongoing effects of climate change and the competition from emerging countries on the southern shore of the Mediterranean.
Biopollution: a useful concept to address biological marine invasions in a sustainable way?
The term biopollution has been used to refer to the adverse effects of the introduction of non-indigenous species (NIS), with the intention of following the methods of detection, categorization and measurement already adopted for allelochemicals. Data on NIS are accumulating evidence of the extent and impact of species introductions, but require greater standardization of terminology and wider consensus on metrics. The need to define and measure the detrimental effects of NIS may find useful guidance from analogous ecotoxicological studies. For example, the IUCN standard "Environment Impact Classification for Alien Taxa" (EICAT) deserves to be re-examined in the light of the increasing scientific knowledge; the ALien Biotic IndEX (ALEX) index, which has also found been used in Italy, needs further generalisation. Treating the introduction of NIS similarly to other types of pollution could facilitate the preparation of intervention plans, starting with the appropriate monitoring methods: the possible beneficial effects of introduced species should not weaken the attention that must be maintained towards this threat to ecosystems.
Marine Ecosystem Restoration - MER, il progetto PNRR per conoscere, proteggere e restaurare gli habitat marini
Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA) is the implementing body of the PNNR (Italian NextGeneration EU) MER Project, which provides for the investment of 400 million euros for the period 2022 - 2026 for the implementation of interventions for the restoration and protection of the seabed and marine habitats, the strengthening of the national observation system of marine and coastal ecosystems, also through the acquisition of a new major naval oceanographic unit, and the mapping of the extension and state of coastal and marine habitats of conservation interest in Italian waters.
Occurrence of loggerhead sea turtles in the offshore areas of the central-southern Tyrrhenian Sea (western Mediterranean): results of the first five years of surveys using passenger ferries as observation platforms
The spatial behavior of Mediterranean loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta, Linnaeus, 1758) in offshore areas, particularly in the Tyrrhenian Sea, remains poorly understood. This study presents preliminary results from a five-year visual data collection (2019-2023) on loggerheads conducted within the FLT Med Net and LIFE Conceptu Maris Projects, using passenger ferries as observation platforms. Over 32 surveys covering about 6000 km along the Salerno-Palermo and Naples-Palermo routes, 176 specimens were sighted. Spatial analyses revealed a stable presence of turtles, with a mean SPUE index of 0.03 and a significant hotspot centered ~60 km northeast of Palermo, as indicated by Kernel Density Estimation and Getis-Ord Gi* statistics. Consistent with satellite-tagging studies, turtles dispersed widely in spring-summer, concentrating in smaller areas during autumn-winter. Notably, in spring, turtles seemed to favor areas near seamounts, which are known to attract pelagic predators. These findings emphasize the ecological importance of the Tyrrhenian basin for loggerheads.
The Marine Strategy Framework Directive: monitoring of Mediterranean circalittoral and bathyal coral reefs
Habitat-forming species are known worldwide to play a key role in structuring benthic ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. In deep waters, habitat-forming corals (i.e., stony corals, black corals, and gorgonians) can form bioconstructions or dense assemblages known as coral reefs and gardens, threatened by several stressors. In the Mediterranean Sea, considerable effort has been made over the past two decades to unveil the distribution, extent, and ecological role of these habitats. However, quantitative data on their conservation status still need to be improved. Under the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), monitoring activities have been carried out in Italian waters since 2020 (every three years) to fill these gaps. The aim is to assess the ecological status of coral forests and scleractinian cold-water reefs using diversity, health status, and impact variables. Monitoring was conducted using remotely operated vehicle technologies between 100 and 650 m depth in nine areas and 90 sites of the three MFSD subregions bordering Italy. The results of the first monitoring cycle are presented, and biodiversity hotspots are identified. The investigated habitats showed different health conditions, ranging from almost pristine, as in the Corsica Channel, to severely stressed by marine litter and fishing-related items, as in the Dohrn Canyon. No extensive habitat destruction was observed. Differences in species composition and abundance among the investigated areas were highlighted, showing the peculiarity of each area, the associated megafauna, the exclusive species, and the population status. These monitoring activities increase knowledge of key benthic and vulnerable species and habitats, providing a preliminary baseline assessment of distribution, population structure and conservation status with respect to the main sources of impact. This information is pivotal for assessing the effectiveness of the measures implemented by the MSFD and evaluating the need for additional specific conservation initiatives.
Macrozoobenthic assemblages and leaf epiphytes associated with a Posidonia oceanica meadow restored
The restoration of marine phanerogams is one of the key points of the Italian Green Deal to promote the recovery of associated biodiversity and ecosystem services. However, long term studies on the effectiveness of restored meadows to recover the pristine conditions and to sustain the associated biological communities are still scarce. Macrozoobenthic assemblages (polychaetes, molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms) and leaf epiphytes (encrusting algae, erected algae, bryozoans, hydroids, foraminifers, spirorbids, and ascidians) were investigated in a Posidonia oceanica meadow restored in 2009 at Ischia Island (Southern Tyrrhenian Sea). The samplings were performed in 2018 to compare associated organisms of the meadow restored with those of the neighbouring natural P. oceanica meadow. Lower values of species richness and abundance were observed in the macrozoobenthic assemblages inhabiting restored meadow if compared to the assemblages of natural meadow. No differences of leaf epiphytes of P. oceanica were highlighted between restored and natural meadow.
Valutazione preliminare dell’impatto degli attrezzi a strascico sulla integrità del fondale marino sulla base di stime di longevità di specie epimegabentoniche
In the frame of the Italian application of the Marine Strategy (MSFD) for Descriptor 6 (Seabed Integrity), the spatial extent of benthic habitats subject to abrasion by fishing gear and the related impact on the status of the epimegabenthic communities inhabiting them were assessed. The analysis focused on Epimegabenthos data collected in the Adriatic Sea between 2016 and 2021, on different habitats subjected to different fishing pressures. For the quantitative assessment of the impact on the seafloor due to fishing abrasion, the Relative Benthic Status (RBS) model was adopted that takes into account the fishing effort (as Swept Area Ratio), the Epimegafaunal biomass, the recovery rate to fishing physical disturbance (as median longevity) and the depletion rate that is gear specific. The study area showed low median longevity values and relative high average RBS values per habitat that seem to follow the fishing effort intensity distribution.
The Tartalazio Regional Network: an institutional approach to sea turtle conservation
The TartaLazio network was established by the Lazio Region in 2017, having as its objective the implementation of a continuous monitoring system of Caretta caretta and its conservation status, in compliance with the international Directives and the national laws. For the first time in Lazio, a systematic collection of data on sea turtle strandings was carried out. The rapid increase in the number of nests along the Italian coasts, including Lazio, has extended the network tasks to include nest monitoring. The network coordinates an ever-increasing number of entities pursuing the aims of protecting and conserving turtles, with the collaboration of public/private research and conservation actors as well the involvement of citizens and stakeholders. A coordination group, made up of specialists, was authorized by MITE to operate in the context of a detailed multi-year research project. Data on more than 300 stranded sea turtles specimens were collected between 2016 and 2023 and on 42 nests.
Il progetto FEAMP del Parco sommerso di Gaiola: monitoraggio biologico, piccola pesca costiera e ripristino ambientale
This work, edited and coordinated by the Marine Protected Area Gaiola Underwater Park, is developed in the Special Area of Conservation IT-8030041 "Fondali Marini di Gaiola e Nisida", within the FEAMP 2014-2020, Measure: "1.40 - Protection and restoration of biodiversity and marine ecosystems and compensation schemes in the context of sustainable fishing activities". In full coherence with the objectives of Measure 1.40, it was aimed at achieving three main targets considered priority and instrumental to satisfy and fill some knowledge gaps on the SAC: Target 1 - Ecological status: study on the consistency of fish stocks and spillover effect; Target 2 - Ecosystem restoration: interventions to restore the priority habitat 1120 Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile, 1813; Target 3 - Fishing effort and mitigation: data acquisition on the fishing effort of small-scale fisheries and control of illegal fishing.
Test sull’efficacia di disinfezione delle colture di Isochrysis galbana (var. T-ISO) tramite acido paracetico (PAA) e probiotico Phaeobacter inhibens (Rhodobacteraceae)
One of the main threats for aquaculture is represented by microbial pathogens, causing mass mortality episodes in mollusk hatcheries. Among the many disinfection methods applied to reduce this issue, use of chemicals and probiotics seems to be efficient. In this study we tested two methods: a chemical, Paracetic Acid (PAA), and a probiotic, Phaeobacter inhibens. Analyses were carried out on microalgae culture of Isochrisys galbana (var. T-ISO). Both remedies were tested in different concentrations, to obtain an optimal breakdown of the pathogens, without harm the algae culture. Experimental trials were conducted in laboratory scale and inside photobioreactors (PBRs). PAA showed no harmful effect on algae cultures, and treatment that gave the best results involved the chemical dosed with a concentration of 60 µg/L, in laboratory and PBRs scale. Probiotic treatment dosed with a concentration of 104 cfu/ml showed no harmful effect also. These preliminary results show the potential efficacy of the two tested methods.
Tutela e prospettive delle tecniche di allevamento mitilicole tradizionali
From the 16th century, the Mar Piccolo of Taranto was one of the most original site of bivalve mollusc farming. It was able to generate significant production peaks in the early 1900s. All this was achieved through ancient techniques using natural fibres. These fibres were replaced by plastic only in the 1970s. The aim of this work was to evaluate the preliminary technical and productive feasibility of recovering ancient mussel farming techniques by comparing mussels grafted with the ancient method with the current one. The better settlement percentage of the mussels grafted with the old method, compared to the current one, allowed to obtain better Condition Index. The better performance of the condition indices of the mussels grafted with the old method together with the slowness of the grafting times make it an excellent candidate both for environmental sustainability and for a production of the Slow Food Presidium, the black mussel of Taranto
Cambiamenti della biodiversità nel benthos sessile del porto di Genova su scala pluridecennale
Fifty years after pioneer studies, the fouling of the Genoa harbour was studied again with similar methodologies. Panels immersed at 1 m depth were collected and analysed monthly to assess biodiversity, biomass, and community dynamics. The preliminary results showed the persistence of key species like Amphibalanus amphitrite, Hydroides elegans, and Schizoporella errata. However, Hydroides dirampha, a tropical species, has increased, possibly due to rising sea temperatures. Simplaria pseudomilitaris was once the only abundant spirorbid species on the panels, present only in the winter and spring months; today, also Neodexiospira pseudocorrugata shows a comparable abundance, and both species also appear in mid-summer. Some once-abundant organisms, such as the calcareous sponge Sycon ciliatum, the hydroid Ectopleura crocea, and the ascidian Ciona intestinalis, have now disappeared. The changes observed may represent the effect of the sea water warming recorded in the last decades.
Il ruolo del monitoraggio ambientale nella conoscenza della distribuzione delle specie rare
The increasing of anthropic activities, climate changes and biological invasions negatively affect the functionality of marine ecosystems and the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of fauna and flora. In this context, ARPA Lazio carried out some monitoring activities in the marine environment according to Legislative Decree 152/2006, implementing the Water Framework Directive (WFD 2000/60/EC), and Legislative Decree 190/2010, implementing the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD 2008/56/EC). These activities have contributed to updating the national checklists, which are fundamental for understanding the evolution of biological communities. In addition, in 2022 ARPA Lazio, in collaboration with the CNR, carried out some research activities in the Civitavecchia area (Rome, Italy), in order to identify alien species and microplastics (SeAlien project). This paper reports some of the rare, unreported and non-indigenous benthic species (NIS) detected during the monitoring conducted by ARPA Lazio in the period 2018-2023 along the Latium coast.
Crescita e struttura dello scheletro di Savalia savaglia (Bertoloni, 1819) (Anthozoa, Zoanthidea)
The zoanthid Savalia savaglia is known for its aptitude of growing on the skeleton of gorgonians after destroying the host coenenchyme. This charismatic species has been the subject of numerous studies on its geographical distribution, ecological role, reproductive biology, age, and conservation. In this research, we describe the growth of the skeleton based on large dead specimens found in the Tavolara MPA (NW Sardinia). Using cross-sections of the skeleton, it is readily evident that the large specimens result from the coalescence of different colonies, each infesting a different gorgonian. The skeleton ultrastructure allowed the recognition of a laminar architecture of organic material characterised by numerous small spines stacked on each other, layer by layer, cementing one skeletal lamina to the next. This organisation is probably at the base of the efficient mechanical properties of S. savaglia.
Differenze nella colonizzazione di diversi substrati naturali in ambiente portuale
The physical and chemical properties of bedrock shape the structure and dynamics of benthic communities. The mutual contribution of mineral composition and grain size in conditioning the early stages of colonization of different rocky substrates was investigated in the Genoa harbour using 10x10 cm panels of marble, quartzite and slate in summer 2023. The main species found were Amphibalanus amphitrite, Hydroides elegans and Schizoporella errata. The number of organisms resulted maximal on slate and minimal on marble. The richness of the benthic community was inversely related to the mineral size, while the presence of quartz did not show an inhibitory effect. The ability to react differently in the presence of different silicate mineral structures depends on a complex of mechanisms involving the surface properties of the same mineral. Moreover, this selectivity can be activated/inhibited during different phases of the biological cycle.
Coinvolgimento di dive centers e uso dei social networks per il monitoraggio del vermocane
This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Marine Citizen Science (MCS) project "Monitoraggio Vermocane" (MV) in gathering reliable data on the distribution and ecology of the stinging polychaete Hermodice carunculata. From May to November 2021, a Facebook page and an Instagram profile were used to engage the public, provide precise data collection instructions, and communicate results. The study focused on central-southern Italy, particularly the Tyrrhenian coast, involving 35 diving centers. The main contributors were men aged 45-54, primarily divers. Posts about human-fireworm interaction and participation guidelines generated the most interest. A total of 249 reports confirmed the fireworm's expansion along the Tyrrhenian coast up to northern Tuscany. Compared to previous studies, continuous public interaction through social networks provided more additional information (size, depth, temperature) and new insights into the fireworm diet and reproduction. The strengths of the MV project can be applied to design similar MCS projects.
Analisi temporale dei popolamenti macrozoobentonici in termini di gruppi funzionali della Laguna di Lesina (FG)
In questo lavoro è stata valutata la distribuzione spazio-temporale dei popolamenti macrozoobentonici di fondo molle sia in termini di gruppi funzionali che di struttura di comunità della Laguna di Lesina (Gargano-Puglia). Per l’indagine sono stati utilizzati i dati di abbondanza della macrofauna bentonica raccolti dal 1993 al 2021 nell’ambito di diversi progetti di ricerca. Sono stati rilevati 11 Classi appartenenti a 30 Famiglie e determinati 3 gruppi funzionali principali: Suspension Feeders (62%) Detritivores (35%), Carnivores (3%), rispettivamente con 12, 17 e 9 specie. Tra i Suspension Feeders le specie più frequenti sono state i Bivalvia: Abra segmentum (FC 100%) e Cerastoderma glaucum (FC 96%), tra i detrivori il Diptera Chironomus plumosus (FC 100%). Tra i carnivori la specie maggiormente frequente è stato il Gastropoda Tritia neritea (FC 71%).
Exploring three-dimensionality and heterogeneity: Maldivian coral reefs post-thermal anomalies
Increasing anthropogenic pressures and global warming pose severe threats to coral reefs worldwide, leading to the loss of their three-dimensional structure and biodiversity. The rugosity index (RI) has been applied to Maldivian reefs surveyed over time, particularly after the severe thermal anomaly of 2016, to assess the effect of coral mortality on the three-dimensional structure of reefs. RI assessments were conducted on both lagoon and ocean reefs at various depths. Although the ocean reefs exhibited a greater resilience to the thermal anomaly compared to lagoon reefs, a reduction in three-dimensionality was observed in all reefs after the 2016 bleaching event, regardless of depth. A slight increase of reefs’ heterogeneity was observed in the subsequent years. RI represents a valuable tool for quickly monitoring the three-dimensionality of coral reefs. Because of the additional information it provides on the reef health, the RI should be integrated with the other commonly adopted ecological indices in tropical reefs monitoring programs.
Monitoraggio della contaminazione da microplastiche in esemplari del verme di fuoco Hermodice carunculata (Annelida) provenienti dalle coste del Mar Ionio
Microplastics are widespread and persistent pollutants in the marine ecosystem. Because of polymer density or biofouling process, microplastics can accumulate in benthic habitats, which can act as a final sink for microplastic deposition. Thus, benthic invertebrates are particularly vulnerable to microplastic ingestion, raising growing concern on the impacts on macrobenthic communities. Therefore, information on the negative effects of microplastic pollution on marine benthic invertebrates are required. Here we investigate the microplastic content in the polychaete Hermodice carunculata, an opportunistic scavenger and predator. An optimized enzymatic and thermo-oxidative digestion method, followed by acid treatment to remove the worm's chaetae, was applied to isolate microplastics from specimens. Then, the suspected microplastics were quantifyed and characterized trough stereomicroscope and spectroscopical technique. A total of 112 suspected microplastics were found in 95% of animals, showing the potential role of H. carunculata as a target for assessing microplastic pollution in Mediterranean benthic predators.
Long-term changes in species and habitat occurrence in the Marine Protected Area of Baia (Gulf of Pozzuoli, Naples)
The MPA of Baia (Gulf of Pozzuoli, Naples) is a unique area designed to protect both the natural habitat and the submerged archaeological structures represented by ancient Roman ruins. Long-term changes in benthic species and habitat occurrence in the MPA of Baia are here discussed based on an ecological survey conducted in July 2023 in the frame of the FEAMP project, and designed to check transects and areas where a previous benthic survey was conducted in July 2004. We registered the loss in the whole MPA of the seagrass Cymodocea nodosa and of the two green algae Caulerpa prolifera and C. cylindracea, mixed with Cymodocea, which in 2004 were covering the 36% of the soft bottoms of the area. On the other hand, a Posidonia oceanica bed of ~2 ha extension was recorded between 6 and 7.5 m depth. While a few cryptogenic and alien species were recored, in particular the cryptogenic alga Acetabularia caliculus, recorded at 2-4 m depth in the soft bottoms around Punta Epitaffio, represents the second record of this termophilous species for the Italian coasts.
Borer isopods (Limnoriidae) in Posidonia oceanica beds off Ustica and Panarea islands
Occurrence of isopods borers’ of Posidonia oceanica sheaths is here reported in a survey on various Posidonia beds off the islands of Ustica (August 2021) and Panarea (September 2022). In Panarea the Posidonia beds investigated thrive under ocean acidification (OA) conditions (pH generally >7.9) due to intense CO2 venting in three hydrothermal systems (Bottaro crater, Camp 21 and Black Point) from 8 to 23 m depth, while at Ustica Posidonia beds occurred under normal pH conditions and were sampled from 6 to 32 m depth. All beds were settled on rocky substrates. Borer isopods, represented by Limnoria mazzellae, were observed in shoots from all sites and depths (a total of 504 specimens in 335 shoots examined). The Index of Colonization (IC= traces or animals present over the total shoot examined) was very high, ranging between 80% and 100%, and represents the highest frequency index recorded along the Italian coast.
“Rejuvenescence Process” in esemplari fossili di Cladocora caespitosa (Linneo, 1767): una strategia adattativa per contrastare il cambiamento climatico?
Cladocora caespitosa is an endemic coral of the Mediterranean Sea. Although C. caespitosa is well adapted to the marked seasonality of the basin, the increasing and frequent heat-waves due to climate change are challenging its survival. Peculiar skeletal structures, found both in fossil and in living colonies, would suggest the existence of a particular adaptive process, namely the rejuvenescence process. This survival mechanism could contribute to better understand the resilience of C. caespitosa, which lived in the Mediterranean Sea since the Upper Pliocene, a period warmer than the current one. Fossil colonies of C. caespitosa attributed to the Last Interglacial Period (LIG), were found in the area of Taranto. Some of these fossil specimens showed a peculiar skeletal typical of the “rejuvenescence process”. This adaptative process could be used as a marker of the thermal stress in C. caespitosa, highlighting the differences between the present and the past climatic oscillations.
Osservazioni preliminari sui cambiamenti morfologici nell’organizzazione delle strutture riproduttive della specie Ericaria amentacea (C. Agardh) Molinari & Guiry (Fucales, Phaeophyceae) nel Parco Nazionale del Circeo
Ericaria amentacea (C. Agardh) Molinari & Guiry is an endemic brown macroalga of the Mediterranean Sea belonging to the Cystoseira sensu lato group (Fucales, Phaeophyceae). The study was conducted along 100 metres of the Circeo National Park’s coast whose sea water is monitored by Arpa Lazio pursuant to Legislative Decree 152/06 and Legislative Decree 116/08. Sampling was carried out from January to September 2023. The application of the CarLit method (Cartography of littoral and upper sub-littoral benthic communities) conducted in the spring of 2022 and the observations carried out in the same area for the purposes of algal surveillance monitoring, (Legislative Decree 116/2008), showed that E. amentacea, compared to previous years, did not show marked highlight reproductive development and that the apices of the thalli did not show obvious receptacles. These observations gave rise to this study.
Specie non indigene nel Porto di Napoli. Lista dei ”ricercati” dalla Strategia Marina nei fondi duri
From 2018 to 2022, we collected and analysed 60 hard substrate macrozoobenthos samples in the port of Naples, (Italy, Tyrrhenian Sea). Monitoring for the Marine Strategy Directive (2008/56/EC) with the aim of searching and finding NIS-Non-Indigenous Species. The taxonomic groups found in the most abundant macrozoobenthos samples, over the five years of monitoring are: crustaceans 35%, polychaetes 28% and molluscs 17%. The NIS species found are three crustaceans and one bivalve mollusc.
First results of aquatic angiosperm transplants in some Po Delta lagoons and in Fattibello Pond
Following the success of aquatic angiosperm transplants in the Venice Lagoon achieved through the Life SeResto project (LIFE12 NAT/IT/000331) which, 10 years after the initial interventions, led to the colonization of approx. 20 km² of lagoon bottom with Zostera marina Linnaeus, Nanozostera noltei Hornemann Tomlinson & Posluszny, and Ruppia cirrhosa (Petagna) Grande, a similar environmental restoration effort was proposed for some lagoons in the Po Delta (Barbamarco, Caleri, Goro) and for the Fattibello pond in the Comacchio Valleys under the Transfer project (LIFE19 NAT/IT/000264).
Un tubo per due: associazione simbiotica tra i policheti Harmothoe spinifera (Polynoidae) e Eunice vittata (Eunicidae)
Symbiosis indicates diversified interactions between organisms of different species living together in close association. In marine benthos, polychaetes are involved in symbiotic several associations, due to their abundance and distribution on the seabed. Here, we report the first observation of a commensalism association between the Polynoidae Harmothoe spinifera and the Eunicidae Eunice vittata in the southern Adriatic Sea, off the Apulian coast. The specimens of the two species were found inside the same single parchment tube, encrusted with sedimentary debris and produced by E. vittata. This finding can be considered a case of recently occurring commensalism as it has never been observed before, although they are both common species; moreover, it improved knowledge on the pattern of symbiotic interactions as commensalism of polynoids also extends to vagile polychaetes as hosts.
Confronti interlaboratorio: uno strumento per ii controllo di qualità dei dati di monitoraggio nazionali
In assenza di specifici programmi nazionali di intercalibrazione, nel 2019 e nel 2020, l'Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA) ha organizzato il primo confronto interlaboratorio (CI) nazionale per le Agenzie Regionali per la Protezione dell'Ambiente (ARPA) con l'obiettivo di aumentare la robustezza dei dati scientifici e dei metodi scientifici fornendo un contributo per migliorare la qualità dei dati prodotti nell’ambito del monitoraggio ambientale per valutare lo stato ecologico delle acque marine costiere italiane ai sensi delle Direttive marine dell'UE
I Gastrotrichi del Golfo di Squillace e del Golfo di Sant’Eufemia (Calabria, Italia)
The administrative Italian region Calabria is home to 17 reported species of marine gastrotrichs. In September 2021, we conducted new investigations focusing on the gulfs of Squillace (Ionian Sea) and Sant'Eufemia (Tyrrhenian Sea). Nine locations were investigated, taking 1-2 liters of sediment from each. Taxonomic analysis was conducted on-site using differential interference contrast microscopy. Altogether, 41 species were found, averaging 11,5 ± 4,7 species per location. Bellini Beach (Doganieri, CZ) was the richest, with 18 species, followed by Le Castella (KT), with 17 species. Overall, the fauna documented in 2021 was made up mostly of species already known for Italy; however, 59% of the species are new to Calabria, including four belonging to the genus Halichaetonotus, not yet reported for the region. The 2021 findings encourage further research in other underexplored coastal areas of Calabria and other southern regions.
Interventi di espianto e trapianto di Posidonia oceanica L. (Delile) a Rapallo e Sestri Levante a seguito di potenziamento delle opere di difesa portuale
After the 2018 storm surge, interventions were planned in Rapallo and Sestri Levante (Genova, Liguria, italy) to strengthen the costal defence works and this could have interfered with some small portions of Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile meadows. To compensate for the damage, interventions were carried out by removing a portion of the plants that would have been impacted and subsequently trasnplanting them to close areas, followed by a monitoring for apporximately 6 years. In Rapallo in 2020, 464 plants were transplanted and during the last monitoring in 2023, 235 were counted, with a survival rate of 54.5%. In Sestri Levante, in 2021 there were 545 and in the 2023 monitoring, 409 were counted, with a survival rate of 75.0%. To date, the results are consistent with the literature and the data will be collected with monitorings until 2026 to keep updating the project.
La Citizen Science nel monitoraggio di rifiuti: meso- e micro-plastiche nelle spiagge italiane. Il coinvolgimento delle scuole nel progetto “Guardiani della Costa”
Marine pollution from antrhopogenic waste is a serious environmental issue, with negative impacts on ecosystems, species, society and economy. In particular, microplastics can enter food chains and pose a threat to both human and marine health. Environmental monitoring and citizen engagement (citizen science) are effective tools in addressing this issue. The “Guardiani della Costa” (Coast Guardians) program, promoted by the Costa Crociere Foundation, involves high school students in coastal monitoring. In spring 2023, 2,902 students from 102 classes surveyed natural and human-made debris, including micro- and meso-plastics, following rigorous protocols at 897 monitoring sites across 92 beaches. The results show that 21% of the debris was of human origin, with 47% of them being plastic. Micro and mesoplastics averaged 24.2 debris per m², with higher concentrations in the backshore. The findings demonstrate the potential of citizen science in environmental monitoring and for raising awareness among young people about coastal conservation.
Comparing effects of starch-based bioplastics and chitosan-starch blends ingestion in supralittoral amphipod Talitrus saltator (Montagu, 1808)
Abstract - Marine supralittoral environments are particularly endangered by plastic and bioplastic accumulation. In this work, we assessed and compared the effects on survival rate related to ingestion of different kinds of starch-based bioplastics and chitosan-starch mixtures by supralittoral amphipod Talitrus saltator. Groups of adult individuals were fed exclusively with bioplastic/chitosan-starch blends presented as 10x10cm sheets, in controlled conditions. To measure palatability, sheets consumption was calculated using MatLab. Surviving individuals were counted after 14 or 30 days. Results show that chitosan is more palatable by sandhoppers when starch is present at a high percentage in the mixture, while there is no preference for starch-based bioplastics. In addition, after 14 days, survival rate drops drastically around 0% in chitosan experimental groups while, for starch-based bioplastic, survival rate is generally higher even after 30 days, depending on the type of bioplastic. Results highlight a negative effect on survival rate of sandhoppers, particularly regarding chitosan-starch blends.
Prove di utilizzo di vasi biodegradabili come tane artificiali per il polpo (Octopus vulgaris Cuvier, 1797) in Mar Ligure
Following the 3D printing of PLA (bioplastic) pots, we monitored their effectiveness on 172 elements immersed in the Ligurian Sea in the period 2019-2020. It emerged that Octopus vulgaris (Cephalopoda: Octopoda) chose them as a refuge (18.6% of the jars had stones and shells), but only in 2 pots (1.2%) were they found inside the specimens. These preliminary results suggest the use of artificial burrows in fisheries management to protect octopus stocks. The use of PLA pots could be especially suitable to support Blue Economy initiatives such as fishing tourism within MPAs, while at the moment the replacement of the usual gear seems unlikely.
Employing species distribution models to bridge knowledge gaps in sea turtle spatial ecology: a global review of scientific literature
Sea turtles are crucial to marine ecosystems and act as key bioindicators of ecosystem health, but understanding their spatial ecology is challenging due to their complex behavior and limited occurrence data. Species Distribution Models (SDMs) are increasingly recognized for their potential to clarify distribution patterns, essential for effective conservation. However, the wide range of modeling techniques available can complicate choosing the most appropriate approach. The study reviewed the application of SDMs to sea turtles across 25 peer-reviewed articles published up to May 2024. It found that SDMs are still underutilized, particularly in areas outside the Atlantic Ocean and for most species except loggerhead and leatherback turtles. Gaps were identified in the use of environmental variables, with a lack of biotic and anthropogenic factors and a preference for similar modeling approaches. Diversifying methodologies and incorporating a broader range of environmental and biotic factors could enhance our understanding in future studies.
Active and resting harmful dinoflagellates in the highly productive mussel culture area of the Mar Piccolo (northern Ionian Sea)
The presence of harmful microalgae in mariculture sites represents a risk for production and human health, so the monitoring of these taxa is important for the early warning of harmful algal blooms. The aim of this work was to gain knowledge about the presence and distribution of harmful dinoflagellate taxa in the Mar Piccolo of Taranto (Northern Ionia Sea), through a long-term data series (from 1991 to 2019), using an integrated water/sediment approach. The results showed that twenty-two harmful dinoflagellates, twenty as motile forms in the water column and eight as cysts in the sediments, were identified in the study area and, in the column water, mainly during the summer and fall periods. All the taxa were potentially toxic except Levanderina fissaand Scrippsiella acuminata complex that are classified as high biomass producers. All these data could be useful to understand the dynamics of potentially toxic dinoflagellates in coastal sites devoted to aquaculture.
Organic matter decomposition patterns in the southern Adriatic and Ionian seas: observations from the ADREX cruise (PERSEUS project)
The processes of organic matter decomposition via microbial enzymatic hydrolysis were studied in the southern Adriatic and Ionian Seas, areas characterized by ocean gyres and deep water formation, during the ADREX cruise (February 2014), to gain insights into the biogeochemical role of the microbial community. Proteolytic activity was predominant, followed by active decomposition of organic phosphates and polysaccharides. Dissolved enzymes contributed to organic matter recycling, especially at depth, suggesting the bioavailability of the pool of organic substrates. Correlations found between enzyme activity patterns and trophic variables suggested that microbial metabolism was driven by the organic substrates transported by water masses.
RNA/DNA ratios for the estimation of metabolic and functional traits in diatom species from the northwestern Adriatic Sea, a possible impact on quality of mussel populations
The aim of this study was to evaluate if the RNA/DNA and taxon-specific 18S rRNA/rDNA ratios could be used to assess the metabolic activity of marine phytoplankton. Indeed, traditional biomass indicators such as abundance and chlorophyll a are able to measure population size without reflecting phytoplankton functional activity. Two diatom species, namely Skeletonema marinoi and Chaetoceros socialis, commonly found in the northwestern Adriatic Sea were selected to perform individual and co-cultured growth experiments. The RNA/DNA and 18S rRNA/rDNA ratios were calculated and were found to peak in the early stages of growth followed by a sharp decline. These evidence suggested that these ratios could be useful indicators of phytoplankton metabolic dynamics and, since phytoplankton represent an important source of food for filter feeding animals, they may be useful to understand the potential impact on mussels growth.
Distribuzione spazio-temporale dell'ittioplancton lungo un gradiente mare-laguna
The study examined sea-lagoon connectivity in the Venice lagoon, analyzing the distribution of eggs and larvae of fish fauna between 2015 and 2020. Egg densities were higher in the sea, while larvae were more evenly distributed between the sea and the lagoon. Marine migratory species were found to be effective indicators of the correct functioning of sea-lagoon connectivity and of the nursery role played by lagoons for numerous species.
Distribution, Range and Habitat of the bottlenose dolphin in the ADRION Region
Since December 2014, a systematic survey of cetaceans has been conducted in the Adriatic and Ionian Seas using ferries as observation platforms. This research, coordinated by the University of Torino, Gaia Research Institute and ISPRA's FLT-Med Network, aims to monitor cetacean activity in both inshore and offshore areas of the ADRION Region. Over nine years, the study shows the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) as one of the most frequently sighted species. The research highlights that the distribution and range of bottlenose dolphins, obtained with SPUE and Kernel Density Estimation analysis, vary across seasons, with higher sightings in spring and summer. Employing the Species Distribution Model, the study maps their habitat, showing more extensive suitable areas during warmer months. Understanding the seasonal ecology and habitat suitability of bottlenose dolphins will assist in developing targeted conservation measures to protect this highly mobile species.
Variability of signature whistle emission in a bottlenose dolphin unit off the eastern Ligurian coast (Italy)
Tursiops truncatus (Montagu, 1821) is a regularly present species in the Mediterranean Sea. This study aims to investigate the acoustic behaviour of this species in different contexts and group compositions. We carried out an identification of signature and non-signature whistles using the SIGID (SIGnature IDentification) method, and we compared whistles identified as primary signature whistles (necessary for the initial categorisation of signature whistles) with the secondary signature whistles (whistles with a known frequency modulation compared to previous categorisation). We used Pamguard to extract the whistle contours and the SIGID criterion to identify the signature whistles. We classified 1146 non-signature whistles and 234 signature whistles. Of these, 79 were the primary signature whistles, and 155 were the secondary signature whistles. Our results suggest a more extensive use of signature whistles in our study population than that the SIGID criterion can identify.
Application of a mark-recapture method for the abundance estimates of Tursiops truncatus (Delphinidae, Montagu, 1821) in the northern Ionian Sea, central Mediterranean Sea
Cetacean population abundance is a criterion for assessing D1-Biodiversity of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive to achieve Good Environmental Status. Abundance estimates should be consistent, robust and validated across different methodologies. The present study focuses on estimating the abundance of the common bottlenose dolphin in the Northern Ionian Sea, by applying a mark-recapture approach to photo-identification data collected from 2016 to 2021. The POPAN model was applied to encounter histories of 139 individuals classified as transients, visitors, and seasonal residents. The best-fitting model accounted for both varying survival and entry probabilities by groups as well as varying capture probability by effort. Super-population estimate is 304 individuals (95% CI=254-362), among which 51 seasonal residents (95% CI=41-65), 128 transients (95% CI=107-153), and 125 visitors (95% CI=106-146). This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the population demographic parameters and highlights the importance of establishing a long-time series of photo-identification data.
A twinning between Ventotene and Ischia for the protection of the canyon of Cuma
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.
Unveiling the population structure of the genus Kogia (Odontocetes, Cetacea) in the central eastern Atlantic Ocean
Until the last two decades, the species composing the Family Kogiidae – Kogia breviceps and Kogia sima – were almost completely unknown. Thanks to the use of molecular techniques, few studies were able to reconstruct the population genetics of the two species worldwide. The populations inhabiting different ocean basins appear to be discrete, but with two geographical areas with missing information: the Central Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea. In this study we analysed a sample set from the Canary Islands (n=17 Kb; n=1Ks), and a single specimen of Kogia sima stranded in Sicily (Italy) in 2005. All samples were sequenced for two mtDNA regions, consistently with previous molecular studies. Our preliminary data show that while the Kogia breviceps samples from Canary Islands fall inside clades including also Western Atlantic sequences, for Kogia sima, the few samples (n=1 from Canary Islands; n=1 from Italy) show to be extremely distinct from Western Atlantic conspecifics.
Analysis of the presence of fin whale (B. physalus), sperm whale (P. macrocephalus) and Cuvier’s beaked whale (Z. cavirostris) in the Gulf of Genoa: is anything changing?
Since 2007, Fondazione Acquario di Genova, in collaboration with Golfo Paradiso Whale Watching, has been carried out a research activity on cetacean presence and distribution in the Pelagos area off the coast of Genova. The aim of this study is to analyze the presence and distribution of fin whale, sperm whale and Cuvier’s beaked whale in 2023, comparing the results with the time series from 2007 to 2022. Data were collected from May to October 2023 during daily surveys on board the whale watching boats. Four principal components were analysed: sampling effort, distribution of sightings, encounter rate (ER=number of sightings/km of effort) and the concentration of chlorophyll-a (Chl-a, mg/m3) in surface waters. Among the results obtained sightings of fin whale recorded in 2023 were far more numerous than those recorded in previous sampling years and Chl-a concentration in the study area was lower in 2023 compared to previous years (2010-2022).
Evidence of male alliances in the Risso’s dolphin population of the northern Ionian Sea
The study of cetacean social organization and the population dynamics provides valuable insights for developing effective conservation and management plans. This study analysed the strength of relationships among 61 photo-identified specimens (31 male and 20 female) sighted at least 10 times from July 2016 to September 2022, measuring the simple ratio association index (AI). The analysis revealed strong bonds (AI= 0.80-1.00) in 7.2% of dyads, with 79.3% being male-male, 13.4% female-male and 7.3% female-female associations. Four subgroups of males, organised in persistent and long-term associations were observed, revealing male alliances. Additionally, a strong bond between one subgroup of males and a potentially breeding female was reported, suggesting that male alliances could occur in a reproductive context. As the first analysis indicating the occurrence of male alliances, this study supports the hypothesis of a more complex and structured society in Risso’s dolphin population of the Northern Ionian Sea.