A project to save the Mediterranean cushion coral, Cladocora caespitosa, is underway. This species, endemic to the Mediterranean, is known as cushion madrepora due to its characteristic shape.
The Amp Punta Campanella is collaborating with the Marevivo Foundation on the Medcoral Guardians project to prevent its disappearance. All divers and swimmers can contribute.
Cladocora caespitosa is the only scleractinian coral in the Mediterranean capable of building complex three-dimensional structures. It supports various marine species by providing nourishment, shelter, and a place for reproduction.
This coral is endangered due to warming waters, anchoring, pollution, trawling, and colonization by alien algae species. The Medcoral Guardians project aims to protect this species and develop a replicable model for ecosystem monitoring and conservation.
The project is already active in the Ustica Marine Protected Area and is now starting in Punta Campanella. The Amp Punta Campanella invites diving centers and divers to report areas where Cladocora caespitosa is present.
The project involves identifying donor sites, collecting fragments using non-invasive techniques, and attaching fragments to underwater structures for growth in aquariums. This reintroduces healthy coral into its natural habitat, stimulating recovery and biodiversity.
Mooring buoys and underwater information installations will delimit protected areas to safeguard coral habitats. To report the presence of cushion madrepora in the Amp Punta Campanella, email info@puntacampanella.org.
Marevivo states that saving this coral is essential for saving the Mediterranean ecosystem. The conservation of Cladocora caespitosa is crucial for maintaining the balance of the Mediterranean ecosystem.
Pollution, wild anchoring, trawling, and sea warming threaten its survival. Urgent and effective actions are needed, including the active participation of citizens, students, and divers.
The Marine Protected Area of Punta Campanella is also participating, inviting all swimmers to participate actively. This project protects and conserves the most important endemic bioconstructor coral in the Mediterranean.