Dolphins and Basking Sharks: Sensational Sightings on the Adriatic!

Dolphins and Basking Sharks: Sensational Sightings on the Adriatic!

Fascinating encounters with the local wildlife have occurred in the Kvarner Bay, Croatia, in recent days. A reader impressively documented a group of dolphins in the region and shared his experiences as well as videos showing the majestic bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). In addition to being a characteristic animal of the Adriatic coast, this species has special protection measures through projects such as the Adriatic Dolphin Project, run by the Blue World Institute is operated.

Just two days ago, a basking shark was spotted in the same region, highlighting the Adriatic's rich wildlife. The Blue World Institute has been dedicated to protecting and researching dolphins for many years, collecting data about their behavior, habitats and potential threats. The Adriatic Dolphin Project, launched in 1987, is considered the longest study of a resident bottlenose dolphin community in the Mediterranean. Using advanced methods such as population and habitat modeling as well as genetic analyses, the project makes a significant contribution to the protection of these intelligent marine mammals.

Research and nature conservation in focus

The data collected has already contributed to the designation of six Natura 2000 areas that serve as the habitat of bottlenose dolphins. Croatian laws protect these dolphins, which are classified as endangered on the National Red List. The project's mission is to provide relevant information to the public and authorities to promote the protection of dolphins and their habitat.

During the surveys, the team uses standardized data collection protocols. This includes recording environmental conditions, the number of dolphins sighted and their group composition. Fascinated by the results of the last 30 years of research, the Blue World Institute now has the largest dataset and catalog of bottlenose dolphins in the Adriatic Sea, with over 2250 individuals.

Preservation of biological diversity in the Mediterranean region

Independently of the developments in the protection of dolphins, there is also a new, relevant research project that aims to preserve biodiversity in the Mediterranean region. Under the name BioDivProtect, this project is coordinated by a team of European scientists who want to develop a management tool for the sustainable management of marine ecosystems. A particular focus is on marine macroalgae forests, which provide important habitats for many species and are threatened by human activities and climate change.

The project is funded for three years by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research as part of the European Biodiversa+ partnership. The aim is to better understand ecological and socio-economic systems and to identify thresholds for irreversible changes. The aim is to show the influence of artisanal fishing, tourism and politics. The results could have far-reaching positive effects on biological communities in the Mediterranean.

Intensive research and exchange between scientists working on these important topics are crucial to preserving the diversity of life forms in the Adriatic and/or the entire Mediterranean. With a clear focus on protecting and utilizing these resources, the future of marine life may just become a little brighter.

For more information about ongoing research projects and their developments, please visit the website 5 minutes, des Blue World Institute and the Ocean and Society.