Applied Marine Research & Conservation – An interdisciplinary approach of scientific research and Law & Policy

Introduction to the course:

This course provides a unique learning experience to participants, combining an interdisciplinary approach to applied marine research and its application to the management and conservation of marine habitats, along with an understanding of the laws and policies that regulate and influence how environmental conservation efforts are carried out. A combination of boat expeditions, classroom and practical sessions at marine sites and habitats will help introduce participants to unique biodiversity and pressing conservation issues affecting the Greek seas and islands.

Introduction to the site:

The eastern Aegean Sea is one of the most important biodiverstiy hot-spots in the Mediterreanean region, supporting important populations of endangered marine species and habitats, which are being impacted by a number of anthropogenic factors.

Aim:

The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to applied marine research, marine ecology and conservation in the Mediterranean. It also aims to provide an introduction to the complex web of international laws and policies regulating and influencing environmental conservation actions, while getting participants to think critically about what they mean and where they can be effective or frustrating to environmental conservation efforts.

Topics covered include:

For each topic Archipealgos will lead the field course team in learning about background theory and practical fieldwork, while also focusing on how law and policy is used to approach environmental conservation issues. Through case studies and “best practices,” students will learn to examine laws and policies from both critical and practical perspectives.

• Marine Mammal Biology & Conservation:

Introduction to the biology, ecology and conservation status of the marine mammals of the eastern Mediterranean, focusing on the 4 dolphin and 2 whale species which are regularly recorded in the Aegean Sea, as well as the highly endangered Mediterranean monk seal. The methods of study for these species will be taught, including visual surveying to assess marine mammal abundance, passive acoustic monitoring, behavioural studies and photo-identification of cetaceans. These will be put into practice on boat-based surveys (weather permitting). Marine mammal and turtle first aid will also be covered in these sessions.

• Fisheries: Practices, Ecology & Management:

Lectures will cover the types of fisheries practices in the Aegean and Mediterranean sea, as well as methods of assessment of productivity, Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE), Maximun Sustainable Yield (MSY) and Total Allowable Catch (TAC). The socio-economical importance of fisheries for island communities, the ecology of targeted fish stocks and the impact of fisheries on marine ecosystems are also explored. Methods, control, monitoring and management of fishing activities are discussed, focusing on how to raise an active long-term participation of the local communities in the management process. Greek and EU legislation will also be covered, focusing on the ongoing process of methods of resolving discrepancies in national legislations, as well as on the ongoing process for the reform of the EU Common Fisheries Policy.

• Littoral Ecosystems, Ecology & Conservation:

This topic provides an introduction to the ecology and conservation of the Mediterranean littoral ecosystems, as well as an introduction to the underwater visual-census (UVC) techniques and data collection methods. The combination of classroom and snorkelling sessions will provide a great learning experience. Species assessment techniques, including the underwater identification of fish, invertebrate and algae species will be covered.

• Monitoring of Posidonia seagrass beds using underwater imaging:

Lectures will be given on the ecological significance and factors threatening Posidonia seagrass meadows. Seagrass beds will be mapped using a digital cartographic camera system. Their biodiversity and health will also be assessed as well as the epiphyte cover, water quality and the extent of impact caused by antrhoropogenic activities. GIS maps of seagrass bed areas will be produced, and their usage in conservation management planning will be discussed.

• Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) and conservation management planning (CMP):

Lectures will be given on environmental conservation and coastal zone management of the Mediterranean with a focus on the eastern Aegean islands. These sessions will focus on the current state of CMP in Greece and Europe. The involvement of the local communities in coastal zone management will also be discussed. The interpretation and promotion of sustainable use of the coastal zone will be explored through a series of visits to sites of variable environmental and anthropogenic characteristics, providing a holistic approach to coastal management.

Extra three-day option: During the extra three day option, the participants can select from a wide range of activities such as, guided tours exploring Samos island (archaeological sites and traditional villages), participating in zoological surveys (assessing populations of priority species such as jackals and chameleons), attending dedicated sessions with Archipelagos researchers, on topics of their special interest.