The study, "Identifying Gaps in the Protection of Mediterranean Seagrass Habitats Using Network-Based Prioritization," examines the distribution and connectivity of key Mediterranean seagrass habitats, specifically Posidonia oceanica and Cymodocea nodosa, which support high biodiversity. Using species distribution models and connectivity assessments, the researchers found that many critical seagrass patches—particularly those that serve as sources, sinks, or stepping stones for species dispersal—remain unprotected under current marine protected areas (MPA) across the Mediterranean. Notably, regions like the Aegean, Ionian, and Adriatic seas have significant gaps in MPA coverage of these essential habitats.
The study suggests that strategically placed MPAs could improve protection and connectivity within the ecosystem, contributing to broader biodiversity conservation goals and fulfilling international protection targets. This approach emphasizes the need for MPA planning that considers habitat connectivity to support more resilient marine ecosystems.
NECCTON News | December 2025 is out now NECCTON is entering a key phase, with nearly 30 new marine ecosystem products now being validated — spanning fisheries, pollution, benthic habitats, biogeochemistry, and climate risk. This issue highlights major scientific advances, new AI-driven tools, climate and ecosystem projections, and how NECCTON is strengthening the Copernicus Marine Service to ...
Learn moreNECCTON was featured in early November at the RISE FR-UK event at The Royal Society in London, celebrating outstanding Franco-British collaborations driving European research. Hosted by the French Embassy, the event highlighted projects where cross-Channel partnerships play a central role in scientific excellence....
Learn moreThe latest NECCTON report marks a major step forward in developing higher trophic level (HTL) models — representing fish, invertebrates, and marine mammals — to support marine biodiversity conservation and sustainable food resource management....
Learn moreWe’re excited to share NECCTON Deliverable 6.2, which details major improvements to the marine biogeochemical models used in NECCTON — focusing on benthic systems, suspended particulate matter (SPM), and habitat suitability for benthic flora and fauna....
Learn moreNew NECCTON Video: The Future of Tuna – Managing Climate Risks and Sustaining Island Economies Tuna fisheries are essential for global food security and a cornerstone of economic livelihoods in many Pacific and Indian Ocean nations. However, climate change is reshaping ocean conditions and threatening the stability of tuna stocks—and the communities that depend on them. ...
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