The GFCM has established a new Fisheries Restricted Area in the Strait of Otranto that prohibits trawling in the most sensitive areas of the southern Adriatic. The measure stems from scientific analyses that have identified seabeds with vulnerable habitats, including deep ecosystems that are home to slow-growing and easily damaged species, such as the coral Isidella elongata. The aim is to reduce the impact of fishing activities on the bodies of the fund and to foster the recovery of exploited fish populations. The measure represents an operational step in strengthening the protection of Adriatic marine ecosystems and contributes to international conservation commitments in the Mediterranean.

Proposed space plan for the Croatian Exclusive Economic Zone in the Adriatic

Croatia has begun planning its Exclusive Economic Zone in the Adriatic through a new Space Plan.

The project establishes where and how economic activities can be carried out, while also indicating areas to be preserved to avoid damage to sensitive marine ecosystems.

The proposal is being consulted and aims to make sea use more orderly and sustainable in the future.

Monitoring biodiversity with eDNA in the Northern Adriatic Sea

The SeaInsights project, developed by Italian and Slovenian researchers, uses environmental DNA (eDNA) to non-invasively monitor biodiversity in the northern Adriatic Sea.

By analyzing the genetic material dissolved in the water, it is possible to identify marine species without capture or direct observation.

These data will serve to better understand the health status of ecosystems and support future decisions on the protection and sustainable management of the Adriatic.