Pipefish, close relatives of seahorses, are among the most enigmatic species in our oceans. Their astounding capacity for camouflage and distinctive bony structure make them truly unique. However, the lack of information about their distribution and population status also means that they are extremely vulnerable.
In the Balearic Sea, between five and seven species of pipefish have been identified, most of which are threatened due to the degradation of their habitat and pollution. In fact, several pipefish species are classified as near threatened or vulnerable in the Red Book of Fish of the Balearic Islands.
In order to study and protect these fragile inhabitants of the Mediterranean, the Palma Aquarium Foundation, in collaboration with the Marilles Foundation and supported by the TUI Care Foundation, has launched the Pipefish Project — a conservation initiative aimed at boosting pipefish populations in our waters.e
The project is centred on recovering bycatch individuals and developing a breeding programme in a controlled artificial environment at Palma Aquarium. The juveniles will be cared for until they reach an optimal size before being released into their natural habitat, helping to boost wild pipefish populations in the Mediterranean.
The project also has a strong research and outreach component, promoting knowledge about these species and raising awareness of the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.
At 7 p.m. on Thursday, 27th March, as part of the free lecture series “Ecos del Mediterráneo” (Echoes of the Mediterranean), Palma Aquarium will be hosting the official presentation of the Pipefish Project. This is a unique opportunity to gain an insight into this initiative and learn more about the conservation of our sea and its inhabitants.
Admission is free of charge! If you wish to attend, all you have to do is register here.
At Palma Aquarium and the Palma Aquarium Foundation, we work each day to protect marine biodiversity. Thanks to projects like this and the collaboration of organisations with a strong commitment to the environment, we can continue to progress in safeguarding the Mediterranean’s marine ecosystems.
Conserving our oceans is a responsibility we all share. When you visit Palma Aquarium, you will have the opportunity to learn more about how you too can protect the marine world and the species that call it home. What’s more, participating in activities such as the Backstage Tour will give you the chance to take an exclusive, close-up look at our conservation projects. Together, we can make a difference!
