Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas: Help Protect the Endangered Noble Pen Shell
Priroda, a Croatian public institution, is appealing to sailors and the public for their help in efforts to save the Noble Pen Shell (Pinna nobilis), an endangered mussel species native to the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas.
Published 22 hours ago
Endangered Mussel Species
Pinna nobilis, known by the common names noble pen shell and fan mussel, is a large species of Mediterranean clam, a marine bivalve mollusc in the family Pinnidae, the pen shells. The bivalve shell is usually 30–50 cm (12–20 inches) long, but can reach 120 cm (4 ft). Its shape differs depending on the region it inhabits. Like all pen shells, it is relatively fragile to pollution and shell damage. (source: Wikipedia)
As part of the “Preservation of the Noble Pen Shell in the Adriatic” project, Javna ustanova Priroda are deploying bright yellow spherical buoys in coastal areas of Croatia. These buoys are part of a scientific effort to create a safe haven for young pen shells, which are susceptible to a single-celled parasite called Haplosporidium pinnae.
The Noble Pen Shell is a vital part of the marine ecosystem and acts as a natural water filter. However, since 2016, the parasite has caused a mass die-off, wiping out 80–100% of the population in some areas. Overfishing and pollution have also contributed to the species’ decline.
Do Not Touch – Do Not Anchor
The public is urged to avoid these buoys. Do not touch them, and most importantly, do not anchor your vessel to them. The buoys are crucial to the survival of the young shells being collected and studied within them.
By respecting these markers, you’ll be directly contributing to the fight to prevent the extinction of this iconic marine species.
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Related News:
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Related Links:
- Conservation of the Noble Pen Shell – Pinna Nobilis- in the Adriatic
- Javna Ustanova Priroda – Facebook
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