Blue Carbon in the Ria Formosa

First, let me tell you a little bit about the study area, the Ria Formosa Natural Park. We took all of our samples in this beautiful lagoon, located in the South of Portugal. It encompasses an area of about 18 000 hectares and was classified as a Natural Park back in the 1987. Protected from the forces of the ocean by five barrier islands and two peninsulas, this natural park contains many different habitats such as saltmarshes, tidal flats, dunes, saltpans and many more. Due to this diversity in habitats, you can find an impressive variaty of fauna and flore. Not surprisingly, the Ria Formosa is part of the Natura 2000 Network and an important nesting area for numerous migratory birds. In the 1980's, it was also included in the RAMSAR Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands; and has been declared an Important Bird and Biodiveristy Area, or IBA.

Besides its impressive terrestrial biodiversity, the Ria Formosa is also an essential habitat for aquatic organisms. In the early 2000's, seahorse were found here in record-breaking numbers Unfortunately, the population has been in a dramatic decline since. Efforts are being made to restore the population, but there is a long way to go still.

The Ria Formosa has an important socio-economic role, as many local fishermen depend on the populations of crustaceans, bivalves and fish for human consumption, which is another reason why it is important that this area remains healthy and thriving.