Scientists Replant Underwater Forests to Restore Marine Biodiversity in Greece

Restoring Underwater Algae Forests

• 🌊 Marine scientists are working to restore underwater forests of Cystoseira, a vital brown algae species, in the waters around a Greek island.
• 💡 This species is crucial for marine biodiversity but has been negatively impacted by climate change and warmer weather.

Cultivation and Replanting Efforts

• 🌱 The algae's reproductive cycle is affected by warmer temperatures, sometimes preventing spore release.
• 🔬 Scientists at the Hellenic Center for Marine Research cultivate Cystoseira seedlings on ceramic discs before transferring them to the reef.

Ecological Benefits of Restoration

• 🐠 If the Cystoseira forests return, it is expected that associated animal and plant species will also return.
• 🎯 Maria Salomidi emphasizes that where Cystoseira thrives, many other species can flourish, providing shelter, food, and shade.
• 📈 The presence of Cystoseira forests leads to the highest biodiversity in Mediterranean reef environments.

EU-Funded Restoration Project

• 🇪🇺 This initiative is part of the co-founded EU project Reeforest, aimed at enhancing biodiversity within a marine protected area.