The Deliverable E2.2 of LIFE Conceptu Maris is now online: Data acquisition on CEPTU species, marine litter, maritime traffic, and eDNA samples in the WMED and ADRION Regions.
The document provides a detailed overview of the data collection activities carried out at sea between 2022 and 2024 in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Adriatic Sea, and Western Mediterranean. During this period, 4,067 cetacean sightings and 2,285 sea turtle sightings were recorded, along with data on marine litter, maritime traffic, and observed species along various routes.
Monitoring was systematically conducted along fixed ferry routes in the Mediterranean Sea, combining direct observations with innovative techniques such as eDNA (environmental DNA) sampling. Activity C1 (Core Area) focused on the central Tyrrhenian Sea, while Activity E2 extended to the Western Mediterranean and the Adriatic (Replication Area).
In addition to field monitoring by the Conceptu Maris team from 2022 to 2024, a large historical dataset (2008–2021) collected by the FLT Med Net network was integrated, bringing the total to 16 years of data. These data have been harmonized and incorporated into a shared database developed by ISPRA, accessible through an interactive dashboard and Web-GIS platform. This tool, currently available only to Conceptu Maris partners, allows users to explore spatial and temporal trends and serves as a key resource for marine biodiversity conservation.
The Deliverable outlines all phases of the process: from database creation and historical harmonization to integration of new data and overall statistical synthesis.
👉 Read the full document in the “Deliverables” section of the Conceptu Maris website: www.lifeconceptu.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/E2.2_Deliverable_CONCEPTU-MARIS-1.pdf

Picture: Sperm whale tail / CIMA