The Glaucostegus Project, a pioneering initiative in Europe for the conservation of the giant guitarfish (Glaucostegus cemiculus), was presented this Wednesday at the Seville Aquarium.
This project aims to research and protect one of the most threatened species in our waters, whose last populations in Europe are found on the coasts of Cádiz and Huelva.
The event, held on Andalusia Day, served to pay tribute to the region's natural heritage and raise awareness about the importance of preserving its biodiversity. During the presentation, the project's progress and objectives were presented, as well as the necessary strategies to ensure the protection of this unique species and the work plan for the next two years.
The Glaucostegus Project is the result of collaboration between various entities committed to marine conservation, such as the Oceanogràfic Foundation, the Seville Aquarium, the Azul Marino Foundation, the LAMNA Association, the Agricultural and Fisheries Training Institute of the Junta de Andalucía (IFAPA), Seashore Environment&Fauna and the Los Corrales de Rota Association, in collaboration with the Doñana Biological Station and the Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge (MITECO).
The event was attended by prominent personalities in the field of conservation and environmental management, who offered statements on the relevance of this initiative:
Marta Calabuig, director of the aquarium division of Global Omnium: "As aquariums, we have the duty to become research and conservation centers, in addition to being spaces for dissemination. This project links these three parts, which are fundamental to protect our seas and oceans, and specifically, the giant guitarfish "
Pablo García-Salinas, project director of the Azul Marino Foundation: “The giant guitarfish represents an entire Andalusian coastal ecosystem, it should be an emblem of marine conservation in Spain, and if we work together, it will be a story of hope for nature restoration in Europe”
About the Glaucostegus Project
The Glaucostegus Project represents the first coordinated effort at the European level for the study and conservation of the giant guitarfish. Its objective is to collect essential data on the biology and ecology of this species, develop management and conservation measures, and involve society in the protection of Andalusia's marine natural heritage.
In this first phase, the project will focus on identifying and monitoring guitarfish populations in Andalusia through tagging individuals and supporting citizen science to report sightings and/or recaptures. In addition, genetic studies will be conducted to assess the diversity of local populations and their connectivity with other populations in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Simultaneously, awareness programs aimed at the fishing community and the general public will be implemented, with the aim of reducing accidental capture and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Awareness and Education for Conservation
On April 14, 2023, an outreach and education campaign about the guitarfish was launched at the Seville Aquarium, with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of its conservation. Under the title “The Guitar of the Sea”, various educational activities were carried out so that visitors could learn about this fascinating species, its characteristics, and the threats it faces.
"This campaign has been an opportunity for us to bring Andalusians and the rest of the Spaniards who visit us closer to the giant guitarfish. A species previously unknown to them and now emblematic, which has allowed us to directly involve them in its protection " states Susana Montero, education director of the Seville Aquarium.
A Reference in Marine Conservation and Ecological Restoration
Andalusia, with its privileged location and rich marine biodiversity, can play a key role in the conservation of threatened species and lead reference projects at an international level. In line with the UN Decade of Ocean Science (2021-2030) and the ecological restoration goals set by the European Union for 2030, initiatives such as the Glaucostegus Project reinforce the region's commitment to protecting the marine environment and the sustainability of its ecosystems.