A monitoring campaign aimed at surveying alien species in the Mediterranean has been launched.
The citizen science campaign was born from an idea by Vincenzo di Martino, a marine biologist and researcher at the CNR (National Research Council) and a member of the Sicilian Wildlife Authority (Ente Fauna Siciliana), who decided to combine the skills and professionalism of the two environmental research, conservation, and protection organizations to carry out monitoring that is as participatory as possible and, of course, open to all marine enthusiasts.
Of course, this isn't the first nor the last of these initiatives; we know that well. But we're well aware that the more of them are implemented, the better we'll understand the Sea and the better we'll be able to manage and protect it.
Anyone can participate in this initiative by sending an email to the scientific director (vincenzo.dimartino@cnr.it) reports of any strange, unusual or simply rare organism, animal or plant, that you have seen or fished during your activities at sea.
Whether it's a catch made during a fishing trip, from the shore or from a boat, a dive, or even a visit to one of the many picturesque fish markets that take place daily in Italy's beautiful seaside resorts.
The information you submit doesn't require any particular scientific expertise; all you need is curiosity and a willingness to observe.
Have you noticed a strange animal? It could be one of the alien species in the Mediterranean.
The information to be sent is basic: one or more photos or a short video of the observed and/or captured specimen, possibly with an object nearby that serves as a reference for size (a coin, a pen, a lighter, etc.) and information on the location of the sighting and/or capture, perhaps accompanied by GPS coordinates (all cell phones nowadays have them).
If you spot something you've never seen before at the fishmonger's, it's helpful to ask about the actual location where it was caught. However, be very discreet when doing so, as fishermen or seafood retailers aren't always willing to provide this information.
By participating in this initiative, you will help the CNR – National Research Council and the Sicilian Wildlife Agency monitor the alien species colonizing the Mediterranean Sea.
We must all be protagonists in safeguarding the sea
For more information and to download the poster
Thank you for your help!
