Seahorse conservation
Seahorse conservation
The iconic seahorse of Ria Formosa
In the heart of Ria Formosa, we could find the world's largest seahorse population up until the late 90's. However, over the past two decades, the seahorses that live in these waters have faced a perilous decline, with numbers plummeting by a staggering 90%. Among them, the long-nosed and short-nosed seahorses are now critically endangered.
These captivating creatures, with their delicate existence, face a number of threats caused by human activity, from the disturbing noise of boat engines to accidental entanglement in fishing gear and illegal fishing. Moreover, their once tranquil habitat has been disturbed, and the seagrass meadows that surround them are now threatened by degradation and coastal construction.
These habitats are also in need of protection as they serve as important anchors for seahorses, providing camouflage, prey and breeding grounds. Seagrass meadows are part of an ecosystem that supports a wide range of species, making it vital to protect these habitats and all the marine biodiversity they support.
Uniting conservation with research
Facing these challenges head on, a dedicated team of researchers at CCMAR is studying seahorse ecology and understanding the intricacies of their habitat needs and vulnerabilities, such indentifying anthropogenic threats.
At the Ramalhete marine station, seahorses find refuge through pioneering breeding programmes, while scientists conduct studies that aim to understand what might be causing the population decline and support the sustainable management of their habitats.
Research projects about seahorses:
Empowering conservation through education
Our mission doesn't stop in research. Recognising the power of knowledge to inspire change, our team at CCMAR brings our science to communities, educators and decision-makers alike. Through a tapestry of outreach initiatives, from classroom dialogues to immersive field trips, we work towards a conscious society.
To empower educators in incorporating seagrass ecosystem concepts and seahorse biology into school curricula and captivating students' interest, we conduct comprehensive teacher training sessions complemented by immersive field trips. Through interactive dialogues and workshops, we foster knowledge exchange among decision-makers, conservationists, media representatives, and marine tourism companies operating within the Ria Formosa region.
Advocating for conservation with authorities
Our efforts extend beyond the laboratory and field trips, as we work with local and global authorities to advocate for conservation measures based on data and science, and to collaborate on the implementation of sustainable management practices.
Working in partnership with marine authorities and regional conservation bodies, certain areas in the Ria Formosa were outlined protected, which will provide shelter for seahorses. In relation to this, a safeguard plan for seahorses in the Ria Formosa - Delimitation of refuge areas, was designed in collaboration with the National Maritime Authority - Capitania do Porto de Faro e Olhão - and the Direção Regional da Conservação da Natureza e Florestas do Algarve.
In addition, our commitment to seahorse conservation goes beyond words and into action, demonstrating our hands-on approach to conservation. By actively implementing our initiatives, such as seagrass transplantation and seahorse reintroduction programmes, we are taking decisive steps towards restoring the once thriving habitat and population of Ria Formosa.
