Discover the hidden treasures of the Triton Cup CUP LIFE A-MAR NATURA2000
The LIFE A-MAR NATURA2000 project was created with the aim of enhancing the marine areas of the Natura 2000 Network, transforming them into recognizable and interesting places for the general public to stimulate sustainable behaviors and support marine biodiversity conservation.
On the occasion of the Triton Cup LIFE A-MAR NATURA2000, a unique opportunity to promote and discover some of the marine sites near the regatta, a detailed overview of these extraordinary protected marine areas is presented.
“Protection of Tursiops truncatus” – Site of Community Importance (SCI) IT5160021
This site, characterized by muddy seabeds, coastal debris, rocky shoals, and Posidonia oceanica meadows, is a refuge for various marine species and an important habitat for migratory and nesting birds. Among the most distinctive species that can be encountered are the loggerhead turtle, the bottlenose dolphin, the fin whale, the common dolphin, the pilot whale, Risso’s dolphin, the Cuvier’s beaked whale, the sperm whale, and the striped dolphin. Additionally, the site hosted specimens of Pinna nobilis until 2019, and still today, it shelters the Mediterranean ribbed limpet, various species of sponges, and the precious red coral. The Posidonia meadows and the populations of Cystoseira, a brown alga unfortunately threatened by human activities, represent crucial ecosystems for the area’s biodiversity.
“Secche della Meloria” – Special Area of Conservation (SAC) IT5160018
The Secche della Meloria, a vast area of shallow rocky seabeds off Livorno, spans approximately 90 km². This area is renowned for its well-structured Posidonia oceanica meadows and photophilic and coralligenous algal populations in the deeper zones. Despite human disturbances, many areas maintain good ecological conditions, such as the “catini,” seabed depressions with high biodiversity. The most distinctive species that can be observed include the loggerhead turtle, the bottlenose dolphin, the Pinna nobilis (rare specimens), the dusky grouper, and the sea urchin. The complex morphology of the seabed contributes to a rich biodiversity, making this area of great ecological value.
“Isola di Gorgona – terrestrial and marine area” – Special Protection Area (SPA) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC) IT5160002
The Island of Gorgona, with its rocky seabeds down to 40-50 meters deep, hosts five submerged cavities, including the cave of the monk seal. The Posidonia oceanica meadows surround the island, except for some portions near human settlements, while the coralligenous populations are particularly developed in the northern part of the island. The species that can be encountered include the loggerhead turtle, the bottlenose dolphin, the Cuvier’s beaked whale, the fin whale, the Pinna nobilis (rare specimens), and the brown meagre. The island is also an important nesting site for various marine and terrestrial bird species, such as the Mediterranean shearwater, the Eleonora’s falcon, the Montagu’s harrier, and the Audouin’s gull.
“Isola di Capraia – terrestrial and marine area” – Special Protection Area (SPA) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC) IT5160006
The Island of Capraia, of volcanic origin, is characterized by high rocky coasts interrupted by small beaches in the northeast. The marine seabeds are rich in Posidonia oceanica meadows and coralligenous habitats rich in Porifera. The superficial populations are dominated by Cystoseira spp., an alga indicating a high-quality marine environment. Among the most distinctive species that can be encountered are the loggerhead turtle, the bottlenose dolphin, the Mediterranean shearwater, the Cory’s shearwater, and the European roller. The island, thanks to its almost total protection, has maintained a good natural state and high biodiversity of marine ecosystems.
Santuario Pelagos – Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMI)
The Pelagos Sanctuary is the only international marine area dedicated to the protection of marine mammals in the Mediterranean Sea, established by an agreement between France, Italy, and the Principality of Monaco. This sanctuary promotes management measures for the protection of marine mammals and their habitats. Among the distinctive species that can be observed are the striped dolphin, the common dolphin, the bottlenose dolphin, the pilot whale, the Cuvier’s beaked whale, Risso’s dolphin, the fin whale, and the sperm whale. The Mediterranean monk seal can occasionally be spotted! The Pelagos Sanctuary represents a model of international cooperation for marine conservation.
The Triton Cup LIFE A-MAR NATURA2000 offered an extraordinary opportunity to explore and appreciate the ecological richness of the protected marine areas of the Natura 2000 Network. These sites not only host a wide range of marine and terrestrial species but also play a crucial role in conserving Mediterranean biodiversity. The event was an invitation to recognize and enhance these precious ecosystems, promoting a healthy balance between public enjoyment, sports, and environmental protection.