Fishermen from Girona and Vilanova i la Geltrú carry out a rescue and return to sea task
Fishermen from the towns of Girona and Vilanova i la Geltrú have carried out an important task of rescuing and returning to sea marine organisms, including corals, gorgonians and sponges. These organisms have been rescued from fishermen’s nets and have been recovered in aquariums installed in the fishing fraternities of the two towns.
Life Ecorest project and the restoration of marine habitats
This task of rescue and return to the sea has been carried out as part of the Life Ecorest project, coordinated by the Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM-CSIC) and with the participation of the Biodiversity Foundation. This project aims to restore the deep marine habitats in Catalonia, with the active participation of the fishing sector.
The ‘badminton’ method and the survival of marine organisms
The rescued marine organisms have been returned to the sea using the ‘badminton’ method. This technique consists of fixing the organisms to a rolled edge and returning them to the water from the deck of the fishing boats. This allows them to reach the seabed and remain in an upright position, optimal for their survival. In addition, a specially designed bio-releaser has been used to adapt this technique to great depths and release a greater number of individuals each time.
Restoration of marine species and habitats
This work of rescue and return to the sea has allowed the restoration of species such as the gorgonians Eunicella cavolini, Eunicella singularis affita and Leptogorgia sarmentosa, as well as the soft coral Alcyonium palmatum and several species of dermosponges. According to images obtained through a remotely operated underwater vehicle, the survival success of these species has been observed to reach 95% one year after the first return.
The Life Ecorest project and its importance
The Life Ecorest project, in which various entities such as the Institute of Marine Sciences, the Biodiversity Foundation, the Territorial Federation of Fishermen’s Brotherhoods of Girona and WWF Spain participate, aims to restore nearly 30,000 hectares of marine habitats deep in Catalonia. This project promotes research and conservation actions, the participative management of fishermen, the strengthening of governance mechanisms and the awareness of the population.
