Introduction to the course

This course provides a unique learning experience to participants, combining the application of an interdisciplinary approach to oceanographic research and its application to the management and conservation of marine habitats. This 7 day course offers both classroom and practical sessions at various marine sites and habitats, both in the littoral zone as well as in the open sea. The classroom sessions will provide excellent background knowledge of the marine species found within the Aegean Sea, the techniques required for their study as well as issues relating to their conservation and management.
Practical sessions will involve snorkelling at in a variety of habitats using underwater visual census techniques for the assessment of biodiversity, as well as marine mammal surveys and monitoring of seagrass beds with camera census on board the Archipelagos research boat. The variety of subjects approached on this course offers a holistic view of  applied marine research whilst providing participants with the tools and practical experience needed for greater understanding of marine ecosystems and their conservation



Introduction to the site

The course will take place in the region of the eastern Aegean Sea in the islands of Samos and/or Ikaria, an area which supports important populations of endangered marine species and habitats. Several species of marine mammals are found in the area, including the striped, bottlenose, Risso's and the, now rare, common dolphin, the sperm whale, cuvier's beaked whale and the highly endangered Mediterranean monk seal. A diverse range of important marine habitats can also be observed and studied, from Posidonia seagrass beds to coralligene algal reefs. The research carried out by Archipelagos IMERAS in the region, as well as close collaboration with local communities, informs and aids in the development and application of conservation and management measures on a local and national level.



Aims

The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to oceanography, marine ecology and conservation in the Mediterranean. The combination of the lectures and practical experience gained from this course will provide not only an excellent hands-on experience, but also will provide good background knowledge to anybody who wishes to develop their understanding of Mediterranean marine ecosystems and their protection.



Topics covered

Coastal ecosystems, ecology and conservation:
This topic will provide an introduction to the ecology, geology and conservation of the coastal ecosystems of the Mediterranean, as well as an introduction to the underwater visual-census (UVC) techniques and data collection methods. The combination of classroom and snorkelling sessions will provide an exceptional learning experience with the underwater identification of fish, invertebrate and algae species, in combination with the study of their habitats.

Marine Mammal Biology and Conservation:
Introduction to the biology, ecology and conservation status of the marine mammals of the Aegean Sea, including 4 dolphin and 2 whale species, as well as the highly endangered Mediterranean monk seal. The methods of study for these species will be taught, including visual surveying to assess marine mammal abundance, passive acoustic monitoring and behavioural studies. These will be put into practice on boat-based surveys (weather permitting). Marine mammal and turtle first aid will also be covered in these sessions.

Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) and conservation management planning (CMP):
Lectures on environmental conservation and coastal zone management of the Mediterranean with an introduction to the main study area, the Aegean Sea, will be given. These sessions will focus on the current state of CMP in Greece and Europe. The involvement of the local communities in coastal zone management will also be discussed. The interpretation and promotion of sustainable use of the coastal zone will be explored through a series of visits to sites of variable environmental and anthropogenic characteristics, providing a holistic approach to coastal management. The practical session will also involve the design of an interpretation poster and production of a small presentation to depict this.  

Monitoring of Posidonia seagrass beds using underwater imaging:
Lectures will be given on the ecological significance and factors threatening Posidonia seagrass beds. Seagrass beds will be mapped using a digital cartographic camera system. Their biodiversity and health will also be assessed as well as the epiphyte cover and water quality. GIS maps of seagrass bed areas will be produced, and their usage in conservation management planning will be discussed.

Fisheries: practices, ecology and management:
Lectures will cover the types of fisheries practices in the Aegean and Mediterranean sea, as well as methods of assessment of productivity and CPUE. Issues such as MSY and TAC and the socio-economical importance of fisheries for island communities are also explored in this section. Ecology of targeted fish stocks, impact of fisheries on marine ecosystems, methods, control, monitoring and management of fishing activities, Greek and EU legislation and collaboration with the local fishing communities will also be covered.

At the end of the course certificates will be awarded to all participants.


Course 1: 28th June - 4th July



Contact:
Anastasia Miliou: a.miliou@archipelago.gr  
Yannis Koutelidas: yannis@archipelago.gr
info@archipelago.gr