In July 2024, as part of the LIFE MareNatura program, a research expedition was conducted in the pelagic area of the Kyparissia Gulf with the aim of studying the sperm whales in the area, understanding their behavior and improving their protection.
The area is within the boundaries of the “Important Marine Mammal Area” of the Ionian Sea and is being considered by the State for inclusion in the new marine park in the Ionian Sea, as part of the country’s commitment to expand Marine Protected Areas by 32% by 2030 (9th Our Ocean Conference).
The expedition included internationally renowned experts such as Jonathan Gordon and Popi Gkikopoulou, along with the project’s researchers.
These efforts are part of the broader mission of LIFE MareNatura to protect marine ecosystems and vulnerable species of Greek marine fauna, promoting sustainable management and biodiversity conservation in the area. The LIFE MareNatura project is committed to contribute to the 30×30 target by designating at least 30 new marine biodiversity hotspots and proposing at least 20 new areas for inclusion in the Natura 2000 Network by the end of the project in 2029.
Highlights of the field team’s survey that traveled on the ARTINA vessel can be seen in the two drone videos here: Sperm whales in Kyparissiakos & Field work in Ionio
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