Restoration of Marine and Freshwater Habitats Crucial for Biodiversity Protection and Climate Change Mitigation.
Marine and freshwater natural habitats play a vital role in preserving biodiversity and reducing negative environmental impacts. These ecosystems serve as essential nursery grounds for numerous fish species, including those of high commercial value, while also providing a range of ecosystem services, from biological filtration to carbon sequestration. Vegetation is a key component in these processes, significantly contributing to the mitigation of degradation effects and climate change.
As part of the EU-funded CRADLES project, coordinated by Dr. Sanja Matić Skoko, research efforts have focused on aquatic vegetation in key lagoon areas. In collaboration with Italian researchers from Conisma – Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, recent fieldwork included sampling of sediment cores and wetland vegetation.
Sampling was conducted at two locations within the Pantan Special Ornithological and Ichthyological Reserve near Trogir, managed by the public institution “More i krš” (Sea and Karst) of the Split-Dalmatia County. The aim was to assess the effectiveness of current conservation measures in restoring the nursery function of these habitats, with a particular focus on carbon sequestration as a nature-based solution to climate change.
Similar activities are being carried out in the Venetian Lagoon (Italy), Amvrakikos National Park (Greece), and the freshwater wetlands of the Middle Danube region (Serbia). These pilot actions are conducted in close cooperation with international partners through joint implementation and knowledge exchange, ensuring the reproducibility and efficiency of the approach at both regional and European levels.
