Fishery is considered one of the human activities most responsible for marine habitat fragmentation and loss. However, while the impacts of large-scale fisheries have been largely studied, the potential impact of small-scale fisheries (SSF) on benthic habitats is more often presumed than assessed, with quantitative information still largely lacking. To contribute to fill this knowledge gap, we carried out a fine-scale assessment with the collaborative involvement of local artisanal fishers operating within the Marine Protected Areas of Torre Guaceto and Porto Cesareo, in the Southern Italy. Through in situ landing photo-sampling, we characterized both the sessile benthic bycatch and the commercial catch components of 146 fishing operations, thus comparing the results across the different habitats (e.g. seagrasses and coralligenous) representing the fishing grounds. Our findings show that the benthic bycatch is, on average, the 39% of the total catch (in terms of abundance), representing a concerning and non-negligible fraction.

To shed new light on the role of the SSF in the loss of habitat, we combined data on the bycatch of two habitat-forming species (Axinella cannabina and Posidonia oceanica) with those on the fishing effort, to quantitatively assess habitat loss driven by SSF. Knowledge on fishing effort is fundamental to develop ad hoc regional management strategies to promote eco-sustainable local fisheries. The achievement of the 30% target of the EU’s Biodiversity Strategy will not be reached in absence of careful monitoring and assessment of SSF.

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) effectiveness can be measured as capacity to conserve and, at meantime, provide natural resources to local populations. The effects of the disturbance produced by Small Scale Fishery (SSF) on fish community of MPA “Parco Sommerso di Gaiola” (Gulf of Naples, South Tyrrhenian Sea) were investigated.

The fishing grounds were divided in three areas: inside or close the MPA, at the West and at the East outside the MPA. In each area, population structures of species from SSF catches and from visual census surveys were compared. Statistical analyses were carried out on percentages of small, medium and large individuals to test for differences in population structures among areas; in addition, “capturability” analyses (sensu: Hawkins et al. 2007) was estimated for each species to assess the susceptibility of a species to be caught.

SSF catches were characterized by the dominance of medium and large individuals, while a meaningful part of small individuals, mainly outside the MPA, characterized visual census surveys. Statistical analyses showed that population structures from SSF catches were not different in the three areas, while significant differences were detected among visual census surveys. “Capturability” analyses show that conger, sea bass, breams, mullets and amberjack are the commercial species more likely to be caught.

Results suggest how SSF activities affect fish community structures. The exploitation of the commercial fishes, mainly selecting medium and large specimens, determines differences among population structures. In fact, from visual census observations it was evident that big sized specimens of commercial species were present inside the MPA and almost absent outside. These observations lead to conclude that MPA “Parco Sommerso di Gaiola” is effective in conserving well-structured fish populations despite its location in a strongly anthropized area.

To identify which prey are at risk due to the invasion of blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) in the Mediterranean Sea, we investigated its feeding behavior and preference for different native Mediterranean bivalve species in a mesocosm experiment conducted withing the project eINS - Ecosystem of Innovation for Next Generation Sardinia (CUP F53C22000430001- MUR Grant Assignment Decree No. 1056).

No-choice prey size and video-recorded prey choice experiments were designed to test the following null hypotheses: i) prey mortality rates do not vary when prey species are provided singularly nor with prey size; ii) the predator does not have preferences when prey are provided singularly; iii) prey consumption rates do not vary among species; iv) manipulating, consuming and handling times do not vary among prey species.

Our results indicate that adult male C. sapidus exhibit a cyclic feeding/resting behavior and show a preference for the commercially exploited native clam, Ruditapes decussatus, followed by Mytilus galloprovincialis and Cerastoderma glaucum, either when provided alone or in combination with other prey. We also estimated that an adult male crab could consume up to 2.6 kg of clams per month during the spring and summer. We also anticipate that the preference of C. sapidus for R. decussatus, a vital commercial species in lagoons along the Italian coastline, will have severe consequences for the lagoons’ trophic webs and the local economy.

Aquaculture is one of the main vectors of non-native species (NNS) transport in the Mediterranean. We used farmers’ local ecological knowledge as an information source to study the presence and effects of NNS in mollusks’ farms in the Adriatic Sea. Study was conducted in 2023 through questionaries with representatives of 24 mussel and 10 oyster farms along Italian Adriatic coast. Most farmers (75% mussel and 90% oyster) knew what NNS are, however, they were aware only of the polychaete Polydora, the ascidian Clavelina oblonga, and the blue crab Callinectes sapidus, and could not indicate other NNS. Rather they could mention the higher taxonomic categories to which non-native organisms belong. The most quoted were ascidians, barnacles, and hydrozoans. From the beginning of their activity, farmers observed the appearance of new ascidians and hydrozoans and an increase in abundances of nemerteans, barnacles, ascidians and Polydora. They claim that these organisms eat or harm molluscs and reduce their marketability. Moreover, farmers were interviewed about the mollusks’ translocation operations they perform. Besides locally producing their own seed, farmers acquire seeds from hatcheries in Italy, Greece, and France, and sell seed to other farms in Italy, Spain and France. Only two mussel farms buy adults for re-immersion and further growth, from Italy and France. Conversely, most mussel and few oyster farms sell their adult mollusks for re-immersion in other farms in Italy, Spain, and France. All these common farming operations might have been responsible for the import of new organisms and could contribute to their further spread in the Adriatic and the Mediterranean. Measures should be taken in collaboration among aquaculture industry, scientists and management bodies to train farmers in recognizing important non-native and pest species and develop procedures for their reporting and undertaking of management measures for the containment of their spread.

The infraorder Astacoidea is one of the most particular taxa from a conservation viewpoint, including some threatened species while others have negative impacts on habitats where they are introduced, establishing self-sustaining populations with possibilities to spread widely. Although the ancestor of Astacoidea colonised inland waters in the Triassic Period some living species inhabiting freshwaters have retained the ability to tolerate high salinity levels as well, and the brackish habitat colonization seems to be quite evident in some introduced crayfish. This phenomenon needs further investigations to understand whether crayfish can adapt to transitional waters, using them either as new elective habitats or as biological corridors. This possibility raises concern for conservation biology and no native species management, with specific regard to: 1) crayfish’s transport and introduction; 2) the increasingly frequent records in transitional waters; and 3) alien threats’ control and management in coastal habitats. Furthermore, here we present for the first time a record of Procambarus clarkii in marine ecosystems for the central Italy coast. Even if the impact on the newly colonised transitional habitats (such as river mouth and temporary wetlands) is not evident yet, the possibility of consequences on these fragile ecosystems seems certain, since they are strategic areas for (i) limicolous birds and endemic fish, and (ii) areas with important economic activities such as fisheries and aquaculture.

Human activities have increased pressures on rivers, causing a decline in freshwater quality and making them among the most threatened ecosystems worldwide, mainly due to climate change and mismanagement of land and water resources. For these reasons, this study aimed to propose an integrated monitoring methodology based on a holistic approach. The river health status will be assessed through the chemical-physical analyses of the environmental matrices, the study of the toxicological effects on organisms and four ecological indices. The ecosystem services (ES) provided by the river in different stretches will also be defined, with the aim of seeing how they influence, or are influenced by, the state of health of the river. The Elsa River, a tributary of the Arno River in Tuscany (Italy), was chosen as a case study because of the presence of a river park, agricultural and industrial activities and towns. Some chemical parameters of the water were tested with a citizen science project. Ecological indices based on benthic macroinvertebrates (STAR-ICMi), macrophytes (IBMR), diatoms (ICMi) and river functionality (FFI) were measured. Squalius squalus was used as a fish bioindicator for ecotoxicological analyses, including biomarkers, contaminant concentration and microplastic ingestion. Microplastics were analysed in water, pharmaceutical residues were measured in water, sediments and organisms, and microbiological characterisations of water and sediments was done. The ES will be evaluated in different sections. Preliminary results show a negative trend from upstream to downstream from a chemical and ecological point of view. The ecotoxicological analyses on fish underline the presence of neurotoxicity and genotoxicity effects in downstream sites. This holistic approach provides a comprehensive view of the state of health of the river. Comparing it with the ES provided by the river in its different sections will allow us to develop different management scenarios and identify the most sustainable one.

Mediterranean marine biodiversity is impacted by several anthropogenic threats such as overfishing, pollution, habitat loss and degradation, non-indigenous species and climate change. Human impacts on marine ecosystems are expected to increase in the future, especially those related to climate change and its synergistic effects with other threats. In fact, the combination of increase of the water temperature and fishing pressures can lead to shifts in the size, spatial range and abundance of marine species. In this fast-changing scenario, assessing the distribution and abundance of species allows detect temporal trends in biodiversity and ecosystem structure. In the North-Western Ionian Sea, standardized data on the demersal species assemblages are collected in the framework of the MEDITS EU program since 1994. The temporal trends of distribution and abundance over a period of 29 years (1994–2023) were analysed. Cephalopods, chondrichthyes and osteichthyes showed an overall increase in the abundance, most probably due to the reduction of fishing effort. Significant increases in abundances of Aristaeomorpha foliacea, Parapenaeus longirostris and Mullus barbatus have been observed, probably due both to the reduction in fishing effort and the increase in the water temperature since they are known as thermophilic species. The increase in the bottom water temperature can also explain the significant decrease in abundance of Nephrops norvegicus and the shifting of the Galeus melastomus population towards deeper and colder waters. The significant increase in biomass observed for Scyliorhinus canicula could be explained by the presence of different refuge areas, both natural, such as canyons and irregular seabed where trawling cannot be carried out, and related to conservation initiatives, such as marine protected areas. Finally, the number of non-indigenous species increased significantly in the study area during the investigated period, but the effects on the biodiversity of faunal assemblages are not yet known.

On temperate and cold rocky coast, intertidal canopy-forming Fucus species (Fucales, Phaeophyceae) structure complex habitats providing numerous essential ecosystem services. Fucus virsoides is a glacial relict endemic to the Adriatic and the only representative of the genus in the Mediterranean. In the past, it was considered widespread from northwestern Italy to southern Albania, but in recent decades its populations have declined drastically. In this study, we examine the long-term changes in F. virsoides and analyse the likely factors that have led to its decline.

To reconstruct the historical distribution of F. virsoides throughout its geographic range, historical records since the 19^th century were collected and compared with the current distribution thanks to a cross-border collaboration. Mapping the patterns of change in its occurrence revealed a continuous decline that has left about twenty fragmented populations. We then investigated the connection between the occurrence of the species and both environmental and anthropogenic stress factors. Time series of potential marine and atmospheric factors affecting the spatio-temporal distribution of the species as well as land cover products were collected and analysed.

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the status of F. virsoides and the factors leading to its decline, highlighting the importance of implementing immediate conservation measures to prevent the extinction of the species.

Changing of abiotic and biotic factors can induce regime shift conditions in soil ecosystems, or compete in synergy or antagonism with pollutants in the onset of significant effects on organisms. Therefore, the development of ecological quality tools is required to monitor and prioritize those soils under depletion. In that way, the alterations in behavior of edaphic organisms are considered as warning signal indicators of changing of soil conditions. Specifically, the use of terrestrial isopods is of great importance for detecting the effect of abiotic or biotic factors at population level. The aim of this work was to assess the effect of these factors on the aggregation behavior in Porcellionides pruinosus for understanding the impact of such stressors on the population density. The stress induced by abiotic factors (as temperature, humidity, salinity, and pH) and by biotic factors (as edaphic competitor presence, necromone response, and dilution-to-extinction of soil microbial community) were assessed by the disaggregation index (DI) and the disaggregation in group (DG) for detecting alteration in the gregariousness. Results showed that these factors modulated the aggregation behavior in P. pruinosus, but the greater impact on the aggregation was driven by temperature (30°C) and humidity (70 and 80 %), where more than 50% of the terrestrial isopods population were fragmented. Compared to the biotic factors, the sterilization of soil induced disaggregation in a dose-response function, while the effect of the necromone affected only at the highest concentration tested. The principal component analysis showed the highest contribution for temperature (26.66% of the variance), while the remaining factors explained only 17.58%. Due to the effect of Climate Change, these environmental stressors may represent a risk factor for the maintenance of the gregarious behavior of terrestrial isopods and contribute, together with other anthropogenic stressors such as pollution, to significant alterations at the population level.

The European oyster, Ostrea edulis (Linnaeus 1758), commonly known as the flat oyster, is a calcifying habitat-builder that provides ecosystem services such as climate regulation, biodiversity support, and enhancement of habitat complexity. As a key-stone species targeted as 'vulnerable and declining' under the OSPAR Convention, O. edulis beds have undergone various restoration projects across Europe. In the Gulf of La Spezia (Italy), the flat oyster has been present since the late 1800s, but the anthropogenic impacts have led to the near functional extinction of its habitat (i.e., oyster beds). Within the PNRR project RAISE, whose activities aim also to regenerate port areas using Nature-Based Solutions, a restoration initiative targeting O. edulis natural beds in the Gulf of La Spezia has been proposed. The PhD project will contribute to the knowledge on the resident population through the following objectives: Ob1: Monitoring the growth rate (length, width, thickness, and weight) and metabolic responses (respiration and calcification) in adult individuals collected within the harbor area and maintained in oyster cages. Ob2: Assessing the recruitment rate and settlement preferences of the population in three sites within the harbor area, using natural substrates and 'Chinese hats' commonly used as larvae catchers in oyster farming. Ob3: Investigating, in collaboration with the CNRS in Dijon (France), the functions and expressions of shell matrix components in oyster biomineralization. Ob4: Evaluating, in collaboration with the International Marine Centre in Sardinia (Italy), the impact of heat waves on the metabolism of O. edulis. In addition to biological data, physico-chemical parameters (temperature, oxygen, pH, pCO₂, salinity, chlorophyll-a) are recorded through weekly or monthly campaigns as well as thorough high resolution underwater observatory. The present project contributes to the knowledge of O. edulis populations and in understanding long-term resilience of flat oyster in the Mediterranean sea threaten by climate change.

According to the EU Habitats Directive and the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive, assessing whether the fishery activities induce disturbances on cetaceans’ occurrence and behavior is pivotal to identify appropriate conservation strategies and strengthen current policies regarding spatial management. In the Northern Ionian Sea (Central-eastern Mediterranean Sea), areas of overlap between commercial fisheries and the Area of Occupancy of Stenella coeruleoalba and Tursiops truncatus have been identified between 2012 and 2021.

Particularly, the spatial overlap with different fishing gears has been quantified characterizing the fishing effort intensity (FEI) of Trawlers, Purse seines, Longlines and Passive nets as low (<1h), medium (1-5h) and high (>5h) using AIS data available on Global Fishing Watch platform. The occurrence of dolphins and their feeding behaviour in each FEI level was analysed and differences in by FEI levels were tested using a non-parametric Chi square test, and a post-hoc multiple comparison test based on the Dunn’s (z) test with Bonferroni correction. Analysis was carried out by FSA R package.

The spatial overlap covered 74% of the study area (934 on 1261 km² cetacean’s Area of Occupancy). The occurrence of both species resulted to be significantly higher in areas with medium FEI levels rather than low or high values (p<0.001, z<0.001) with a sightings frequency of 49% and 53% for S. coeruleoalba and T. truncatus, respectively. Records of feeding behavior resulted significantly lower in areas with high FEI levels (p<0.001, z<0.001) for S. coeruleoalba. For T. truncatus this condition was confirmed only for medium FEI levels (p<0.001, z<0.001).

Results seem to show similar responses to fishing effort intensity for both species, however further assessments of disturbances should consider seasonal and yearly variation in fishing effort and the differences in single fishing gear displacement.

Biotic interactions are crucial processes that shape ecosystem structure and functioning. Climate change significantly alters the nature and strength of species interactions by influencing species responses, tolerance thresholds, and distributions, thereby defining "winners" and "losers" under changing environmental conditions. Here, we outline the trend of a recently intensified interaction between an endemic Mediterranean structuring species (the coral Astroides calycularis) and a range-expanding predator (the fireworm Hermodice carunculata) under warming conditions. The thermal performance curves of both species were experimentally defined, identifying their thermal optimum temperatures and tolerance thresholds. Additionally, the feeding response of the polychaete on the coral was studied and modeled. Trait-based maps showed that current warm temperatures and forecasted climatic conditions pose a significant risk to the shallow coral, with environmental temperatures exceeding its upper thermal threshold; while benefiting the fireworm by enhancing its spread and maximizing its metabolic and feeding performance at high temperatures. The interacting species’ responses to temperature and the feeding performance of the predator were integrated to create a vulnerability index to predict the risk to which the habitat-forming species may be exposed. Investigated interacting stressors may synergistically jeopardize the integrity of this biodiversity hotspot habitat, reducing its complexity and leading to biodiversity loss.

On October 7^th 2018, approximately 15 miles north of Capo Corso (Corsica), a major oil spill occurred as a result of the collision of a Tunisian ferry with a stationary cargo ship and six hundred cubic meters of oil were dispersed into the sea. At that time, part of the Puffinus yelkouan population had already returned to breeding areas comprising a large fraction of the global population. We evaluated the potential toxicological effects of oil spill contamination in yelkouan shearwater individuals from Italian breeding areas after the oil spill accident. Different nesting areas were sampled in the breeding season: Montecristo was close to the oil spill area, Tavolara and Molara islands host over the 50% of the global population and Capo Carbonara MPA (Villasimius, southern Sardinia) was chosen as a control area, being far from the oil spill area. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) accumulation, genotoxic and immune system markers were assessed in blood samples collected from 33 breeding adults. In addition, porphyrin levels were measured in feacal samples. Similar and quite high levels of low molecular weight hydrocarbons (naphthalene, acenaphthene, fluorene, and phenanthrene) were found in the three areas. We didn’t find immune system alterations, while individuals from Tavolara island showed the highest nuclear abnormalities values, both Tavolara and Villasimius specimens showed statistically significant higher ENA values with respect to Montecristo. These results could indicate that the presence of genotoxic effects is not linked to the collision but caused by other sources of contamination. Furthermore, the highest porphyrin levels were found in specimens from Villasimius area. This study underlines the importance of ecotoxicological studies on endangered seabirds to be able to plan management measures for the conservation of the species.

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are crucial tool for conserving biodiversity and ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources. It is well known that MPAs host most of diving destinations due to their rich biodiversity and an increasing number of studies show that diving activities can have damaging effects on marine life, especially on sessile benthic organisms.

The present study aimed to evaluate the pressure of recreational diving activities within the MPA "Secche di Tor Paterno" through a multi-faceted approach. The first component of the study focused on analyzing the abundance and behaviour of the divers. This step allowed for the identification of the factors that most influenced the frequency of disturbance, i.e. diver contacts with the benthic organisms in the MPA. Additionally, the data collected during dives enabled the identification of seabed points most subject to physical disturbance through small-scale spatial analysis. Finally, the activities allowed for a detailed analysis of the potential impacts of scuba diving tourism on the composition and structure of the benthic communities in the MPA, using bioindicators recognized as sensitive to such disturbances.

Results indicated diving experience and use of camera as the most significant factors that influenced the impact on the benthos. Indeed, hotspots frequently disturbed by diving activities coincided with areas attractive to underwater photographers. Despite various contacts with the benthos, no significant changes in bioindicator species diversity were observed due to diving activities. Instead, depth appeared to explain variations in benthic community diversity among dive sites.

This study suggests that scuba diving activities in the MPA “Secche di Tor Paterno” do not significantly alter the benthic community structure, highlighting the sustainability of the diving tourism in the area. Furthrmore, it provides further indication to increase the effectiveness of the MPA management.

The Mediterranean fan mussel Pinna nobilis (L. 1758) has been experiencing since 2016 significant Mass Mortality Events (MMEs), associated with the protozoan Haplosporidium pinnae, which has caused a drastic decline of the species. Between 2019 and 2020 the epidemic reached the northern Adriatic and, subsequently, the Venice Lagoon, where Pinna nobilis was characterized by wide distribution and high densities. Despite the observed MMEs, the Venice Lagoon, one of the largest Mediterranean coastal transitional ecosystems (CTEs, still hosts a large residual population. Comparable situations of higher survival rate are also known for other CTEs, which seems to act as refugia for the species. The distribution and structure of Pinna nobilis remnant populations in the Venice Lagoon and surrounding waters have been investigated since 2021 through multiple approaches across different scales. A site close to Ottagono Alberoni, near Malamocco inlet, has been monitored monthly from October 2020. Video transects were collected in 2021 across the central Lagoon. During 2023, larval collectors were placed at 5 sites along the Veneto coastline in the framework of Life PINNARCA and Interreg IT-SI TRECap projects. In 2024, quantitative surveys over 50 sampling stations have been performed in collaboration with Regione Veneto in the context of Interreg IT-SI POSEIDONE. Overall, the investigations allowed assessing the status of the species, epidemic and population trends as well as spatial patterns. The Venice Lagoon still possibly hosts one of the largest extant population of the species, acting likely as a source of propagules for surrounding marine waters. Both Pinna nobilis distribution and mortality rates appear related to main environmental gradients, such as water exchange and salinity, providing insights into the underlying epidemic dynamics and ecological processes. Present results and main research perspectives will be discussed also in the context of management policies and conservation strategies for the species.

The Marine Strategy Framework Directive aims to protect EU marine waters by achieving good environmental status. Descriptor 6 focuses on seafloor integrity, threatened by activities like bottom trawling. Bottom trawling disturbs the seafloor, alters marine diversity, and impacts habitat functions. This study assesses the impact of trawling on the benthic community of the Sicilian continental shelf, examining its longevity composition while considering the spatial scale, historical pattern, and intensity of trawling. Impact was assessed using three indicators, providing a continuous pressure-response curve at a 1 km² resolution: L1 - proportion of the community with life spans exceeding trawling intervals;, L2, median longevity decrease; and population dynamics PD - relative biomass decrease to carrying capacity. Fishing intensity data were used with varying temporal and spatial resolutions to identify optimal modelling conditions for accuracy. Median longevity, influenced by depth and fishing intensity, remains 8-9 years across models. Selected models suggest that in middle-outer shelf areas, increased fishing intensity shifts the community towards species with shorter lifespans, while in shallower areas, the opposite occurs. The L1 approach shows low spatial variation due to high SAR values and high median longevity but still indicates notable impact. The L2 approach reveals a 20% decrease in median longevity on the eastern Adventure Bank and south of Capo Passero, critical trawling areas. The PD approach is the clearest, detecting impact hotspots corresponding to trawling intensity peaks. In these critical areas, the PD method indicates that the benthic community is diminished by nearly 100% of its relative carrying capacity, highlighting significant impact. The findings of this study provide a method to map these impacts and assist policymakers in identifying sensitive areas and managing spatial planning effectively. The significant negative impacts near the eastern Adventure Bank and northwestern Malta Bank, crucial nursery grounds for commercial species, are particularly emphasized.

Marine soft sediments contribute to the edification of continental margins, which represent one of the largest ecosystems on Earth and a hot spot of ecosystem services. Their integrity, however, is increasingly put at risk by anthropogenic disturbance, most notably by demersal fisheries. The need for global action to minimize the impacts of destructive fishing techniques on marine soft sediments is an urgent need. The assessment of the consequences of such impacts, however, has been limited, as global predictions are challenging, and because poor validations and oversimplified assumptions have led to large uncertainties. By exploring the scientific literature dealing with trawling impacts on marine sediments, we mapped out where, what and when such a disturbance has been studied and measured so far. We built up an open-access data repository about sedimentary and biogeochemical properties of trawled sediments. Then, using such a repository, we carried out a global meta-analysis to quantify the effects of demersal fishing on specific properties.

Studies examining the direct (control vs. impact) effects of bottom fishing revealed significant reductions in chlorophyll-a (-17%), phaeopigments (-24%) and proteins (-32%), with the largest impact detected on the top surficial sediment, where reductions in total organic carbon (-12%) were also detected. Conversely, fishing intensity gradient studies showed an increase in TOC in chronically fished areas. Recovery once fishing ceased was observed for the most labile organic matter components (e.g., phytopigments, total nitrogen, and proteins). We noticed also that natural factors such as bottom current velocity and surface primary productivity can influence both the direction and magnitude of the fishing effects.

We highlight knowledge gaps that might create bias in regional and global models that require empirical data for validation, emphasizing the implications of methodological biases as a result of inappropriate sampling in trawling impact studies and the importance of context-dependent effect size.

Coastal wetlands are socio-ecological systems of immense value, supporting high biodiversity and a wide range of human activities, including aquaculture, agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. Despite their importance, coastal wetlands face various anthropogenic pressures. Among these, invasive species pose a leading threat to biodiversity in these environments, representing a significant portion of their biota in many areas. Additionally, plastic contamination has emerged as a pervasive problem in these systems in recent years, further altering their biota and ecosystem functioning.

The red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) and the eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki), originally from North America, are now distributed in temperate aquatic environment worldwide. Both species are generalist feeders and often coexist, utilizing different habitats—benthic for crayfish and pelagic for mosquitofish. Several studies have shown microplastic (MP) uptake in these species. Since Procambarus and Gambusia are significant prey for terrestrial and aquatic organisms, they can serve as potential vectors for transporting contaminants between land and water environments.

Stable isotopes of carbon (δ¹³C) and nitrogen (δ¹⁵N) have been widely used to assess trophic relationships, determining long-term assimilation of food by consumers, and identifying nutritional deficiencies in predators. They have proven effective in detecting biomagnification processes, and recently, these isotopes have also been applied in MP studies.

In this study, we utilized stable isotope analysis alongside microplastic (MP) examination to assess MP contamination levels and estimate the trophic position of two co-invading invasive species, Procambarus clarkii and Gambusia holbrooki, across different zones within the Torre Flavia wetland in the Lazio region. Additionally, we investigated variations in carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) in relation to MP accumulation and explored potential biomagnification processes.

Invasive alien plant species (IAPS) provide ecological threats due to their adverse effects on native biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. However, recent observations suggest that some IAPS may provide an unexpected ecosystem service by trapping riverine macrolitter, particularly macroplastics. This study aimed to quantify the role and capacity of aquatic and riparian IAPS to trap riverine macrolitter in central Italy rivers. To assess the impact of alien species that occurred in some rivers, we calculated an alloctony degree in a plot as the number of alien species on the total species. We investigated how vegetation structure (i.e., roots, branches, leaves) and community/diversity structure (i.e., number of species, type of vegetation) play a key role in plastic entrapment. Our results indicate that most of the alien riparian species occurred in the Tiber River’s middle and lower courses, while alien aquatic species in smaller watercourses or lower courses. Among all the species occurring in the plots, although few were alien species, they entrapped a part of total macrolitter. Among the riparian species, Amorpha fruticosa and Acer negundo mainly blocked plastic packaging and plastic pieces, while Vitis riparia blocked most hygienic/sanitary towels and pieces, Ficus carica mainly bandages, and Datura stramonium entrapped clothes, aluminium cane, and plastic cups. Regarding aquatic species, Eichhornia crassipes and Arundo donax trap mostly packaging and plastic bottles. The plastic entrapment has been compared among the native and alien species. Among the species, we found that the higher the community structure and alloctony degree in a plot (number of alien species on the total species), the higher the plastic entrapment by vegetation. Here, we introduced the concept of “plastics vs alien plants”, highlighting this new ecosystem service carried by vegetation. Given that IAPS significantly contribute to trapping macrolitter, these alien plants may potentially mitigate plastic pollution in aquatic systems.

Microplastics represent a significant and pervasive threat to aquatic organisms. Due to the various ways microplastics can enter aquatic ecosystems, researchers focused on studying their ingestion and impact on aquatic organisms. However, there is a significant lack of research into how microplastics influence ecological responses across various levels of the ecological hierarchy, accompanied by considerable fragmentation of data in the existing literature. Functional traits, having indirect effects on individual fitness represent the main door through which anthropogenic disturbance can impact community structure, composition and ultimately aquatic ecosystems. This meta-analysis synthesizes data from 82 scientific papers encompassing studies on both benthic organisms and fish. The findings reveal that microplastics significantly impair functional traits across different habitats, life stages and trophic levels. Specifically, microplastics affect metabolism, growth and reproduction in benthic organisms, while significantly altering behavior in fish. These disruptions in functional traits may have cascading effects on energy transfer and trophic interactions within ecosystems. The study also highlights the critical role of experimental design (e.g. microplastic size, shape, type) in influencing observed outcomes. Integrating trait-based indicators with standardized protocols for analysing the impact of microplastics on aquatic organisms and ecosystems could represent a crucial step. This integration could provide guidelines for policymakers to develop adequate management and mitigation plans aimed at safeguarding ecosystems and the valuable goods and services they provide.

Freshwater biodiversity is declining worldwide. Understanding fish behaviour is essential for mitigating this decline and ensuring the survival of fish populations. The increased occurrence and intensity of extreme hydrological events, closely linked to climate change, represents a potential threat to freshwater ecosystems. The Mediterranean ecoregion, in particular, is expected to face more frequent drought and flood events. Despite its ecological and management importance, comprehensive knowledge about the effects of such events on fish movement patterns remains largely unexplored, particularly for small, endemic species. Our research investigates the movement behaviour of the endemic Italian riffle dace, Telestes muticellus, within a small unregulated stream in the northern Apennines. We used PIT (passive integrated transponder) telemetry to track individual fish movements over droughts that caused intermittent flows and flood events. We compared the movement patterns during extreme events with those observed during periods without such flow disturbances. During drying and flood events, the fish expanded their linear ranges, showing the capability to adjust. High-flow conditions notably facilitated both downstream and upstream dispersal of T. muticellus. Under intermittent flow conditions occurring during drought events, the fish directed their movements towards aquatic refuges, demonstrating their resilience to drying riverbeds. These findings are particularly noteworthy given the strong site fidelity and confined home ranges observed during normal conditions throughout the study. The fish movement responses were possible due to the absence of anthropogenic barriers, underscoring the importance of preserving longitudinal river connectivity for mitigating the detrimental effects of increasingly frequent extreme flow conditions.

Brown trout Salmo trutta is listed among the 100 World’s Worst Invasive alien species and one of the world's top 30 worst aquatic invasive organisms. Due to its adaptation capacity, brown trout can colonize different environments, even those which significantly differ from its typical habitat, negatively impacting native populations (fishes, crustaceans, amphibians) and ecosystems through predation and competition (both for habitats and trophic resources), but also as vector of exotic parasites. However, the brown trout was widely introduced, due to its importance as a major target species for recreational fishing. Due to these reasons, extirpation activities have been performed in many countries, using different methods to face brown trout impacts. In the present work, we analyzed the effects of a seven-years long eradication project (2018 - 2024) in a karstic stream placed in Northeastern Italy (Friuli Venezia Giulia Region): the Rosandra Stream is the only surficial watercourse in the Italian portion of the classic Karst, flowing within the Natural Regional Reserve of the Rosandra-Glinščica Valley. The eradication project, funded by the Reserve Authority, allowed to collect 948 brown trout specimens through the years mainly collected via electrofishing sampling campaigns, implementing the use of fishing rods for specific situations, in collaborations with the Regional Authorithy for the Safeguard of Fish Resources. After few years, the eradication project showed positive effects on native Austropotamobius pallipes and Phoxinus lumaireul populations, which showed a significant increase in their abundances since the beginning of the eradication campaigns. These effects are particularly evident for freshwater crayfish populations, and obtained data are of pivotal importance in a conservation perspective, as A. pallipes is listed as an endangered species in the IUCN Redlist and is reported in the Annexes II and V of the Habitat Directive 92/43/EEC.

Soils simultaneously perform multiple ecological functions. Disturbances related to land use can lead to a decrease in biodiversity of soil microbiome and, consequently, due to its crucial role in regulating nutrient stocks and transformations, a depletion of soil ecological functions. The current study aims to assess the effects of different land uses on functions performed by soil microbial community in order to define good drivers of multifunctionality. In the Matese National Park, adjacent areas under different land uses (forest F, meadow M and, pasture P) were selected, and the soils sampled at three times (June T1, July T2 and, December 2023 T3) relating to specific management practices in M and P areas: sowing (T1), harvest (T2) and, five months after harvest (T3) in M; at the beginning (T1), after one month of grazing (T2) and, after the end of the grazing (T3) in P. Water content, pH, organic matter content, labile, recalcitrant and stable organic carbon fraction and enzymatic activities (hydrolase - FDA, β-glucosidase - BG, phosphatase - PHOS, β-glucosaminidase - NAG, arylsulfatase - ARS, laccase - ABTS) were used for the calculation of ecological indices: metabolic activity index (MAI) and soil multifunctionality index (SMF). The enzymatic activities showed, on average, the highest values in F (except for BG and PHOS), although with seasonal variations. In P almost all enzymatic activities increased in T3. In M, ARS and PHOS increased over time , while BG and FDA after a decreased in T2 reached again the initial values in T3. The high MAI values found in P and M highlighted the sustainability of the management practices implemented. In P the grazing affected SMF index, being SMF value higher after the end of grazing period (T3).

Soil provides multiple ecosystem services, producing food, playing a role in carbon sequestration and providing a reservoir for biodiversity. However, soils are subject to several disturbances (i.e. management practices in forests, tillage in agriculture fields, grazing in pastures). These disturbances can change soil properties and microbial community biodiversity, and seasonality also plays an important role in shaping the microbial community composition. Studies on the interactive effect of season and land use and their relative importance in driving change in soil microbial community are limited in the Mediterranean area.
Here, we aimed to answer how dominant vegetation, land use, and season affect the microbial community in different soil ecosystems. At this aim, for one year, the function (enzyme activities) and structure (DNA analysis) of the microbial communities were monitored in soils under different vegetation covers (turkey oak and beech) and land use (meadow and pasture); all the variables were analysed by variation partitioning analysis and the driving factors of the partitioning were determined (using permutational ANOVA). We also calculated the resilience of soil microbial community (by Metabolic Activity Index, MAI), deepening its response to different disturbances (forest management practices, tillage and grazing).
Dominant vegetation type and land use affected the soil microbial community more than the season in these Mediterranean ecosystems. MAI values higher in managed forests suggested a resilience response of the microbial communities and their recovery after about 15 years from cutting. Pasture and meadow management appeared not to affect soil microbial community functions, with MAI values higher in meadow respect to pasture.
This study provides novel insights into the factors that affect the composition of soil microbial communities, and related ecosystem functions, useful in implementing soil sustainable management practices.

Climate change is a key driver of global biodiversity loss, affecting wildlife through shifts in species phenology, physiology, behaviour, and distribution. These shifts can lead to habitat loss, local declines, and extinction cascades. Additionally, new species may compete with native ones, exacerbating conservation challenges. Traditionally, long-term distribution studies have focused on birds and mammals, but dragonflies, as bioindicator insects of ecological change, offer a valuable alternative. Easily identifiable by the public, dragonflies can be monitored through citizen science platforms, aiding in data collection even when institutional funding is scarce. One notable example is Trithemis annulata, a Libellulidae native to Afro-tropical regions, which has significantly expanded its range across southwestern Europe in recent decades, including Spain, France, and Italy. Historically confined to southern Italy for over 150 years, this species has spread northward into the Po Plains and several alpine valleys. To document and analyze the expansion of Trithemis annulata in Italy and determine the bioclimatic conditions for its current and future distribution, a dataset including 2,557 geographic distribution points from different online platforms from 1825 to 2023 was compiled. In the last 43 years, Trithemis annulata expanded northward at an average speed of 12 km/year, accelerating up to 34 km/year. Despite this rapid movement, the northward expansion of the species has not kept pace with rising temperatures, and the species has shown no significant upward shift. By 2040, Italy is projected to see a substantial increase in suitable areas for this Libellulidae, potentially expanding by up to 200%. This expansion, driven by climate warming, positions the species as a neo-native in recently invaded regions. Additionally, populations at the northernmost edge of its Italian range currently border the Alps, indicating a potential future expansion into central Europe.

Intense human impacts, susceptibility to species invasion, small sizes of native populations, and high levels of endemism make extinction rates on islands much higher than those observed on mainlands. Mediterranean small islands are threatened by many factors, including overexploitation, landscape degradation, tourist pressures, and climate change. These islands host unique assortments of insect species, including several endemic taxa. A review of available information on the conservation status of various insect groups on Mediterranean small islands highlights some major areas of concern: (1) Island insects are mainly threatened by habitat loss due to clearance of natural vegetation for settlement (urbanization) and agriculture; (2) Invasive plants and animals (especially other insects) may represent an important, yet overlooked, source of threats; (3) Climate change has not been directly implicated in island insect decline to date, but it will be increasingly important in the near future due to the reduction of island size from rising sea level and the direct and indirect impacts of increasing temperature on ecosystem functioning and insect biology. Preservation of areas in good conservation status (mainly through site protection), habitat management and restoration, invasive species control, and species conservation actions, are urgently needed to improve insect conservation on Mediterranean small islands.

Human activities, especially agriculture and urbanisation, are causing a significant modification of natural environments. Consequently, animals adapt their physiology to these new environments to exploit them for foraging and breeding. This study aimed to compare the physiological status of nestling common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) sampled from nest boxes installed in natural, rural, and urban areas around Rome, Italy. A multi-biomarker approach was applied to evaluate physiological responses at multiple levels, including antioxidant concentrations, immune functions, genotoxicity, and neurotoxicity. We found lower concentrations of glutathione and GSH:GSSG ratio values and a higher number of monocytes in urban kestrels than in other areas. Additionally, we observed higher DNA damage in rural kestrels compared to urban and natural ones, and inhibition of butyrylcholinesterase activity in urban and natural area birds compared to those from rural area. Similar values emerged among the study areas for respiratory burst, complement system activity, bactericidal capacity, and plasma non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity. These results show that urban environments do not necessarily cause physiological alterations in kestrels compared to those from other habitats, and due to the different environmental pressures across habitats, the specific organisms’ responses can be detected through a multi-biomarker approach. Further studies are needed to identify which factors induce the physiological differences among natural, rural and urban. birds and to determine whether these differences are consistent over time and space.

The present study, carried out within the framework of the project code CN_00000033, Concession Decree No. 1034 of 17 June 2022 adopted by the Italian Ministry of University and Research, CUP, H43C22000530001377 Project title “National Biodiversity Future Center - NBFC”, aims to evaluate the anthropogenic constraints on the seasonal dynamics of vegetation biodiversity in urban ecosystems. The adopted approach focused on analysing, using seasonal phytosociological relevées from October 2023 to July 2024, the structural and functional diversity of the herbaceous communities colonizing two urban areas in southern Italy, subjected to different levels of management but similar climate. Taxa were identified at the species level, estimating their abundance through measures of number of individuals, dry mass and Braun-Blanquet cover, while Raunkiaer biological forms, chorology and Ellenberg indices were adopted to evaluate vegetation functional diversity.

Results show clear seasonal dynamics in vegetation composition and structure where subjected only to occasional mowing, with dominance-diversity relationships cycling through pre-emption models in winter to lognormal distributions in spring and autumn, passing through Mandelbrot models in summer. This sequence highlights the seasonal evolution of constraints due to endogenous processes (e.g. competition) and external pressures (e.g. summer drought), and is coherent with clear shifts in community composition. Where regular mowing, irrigation and fertilization occur, the seasonal signature on vegetation dynamics fades and the dominance-diversity community structure follows similar pre-emption models throughout the year, with limited variations in species richness and evenness. The relative seasonal variations in different diversity indices between the study areas further support the effects of anthropogenic constraints on vegetation seasonal dynamics.

Findings shed light on the temporal evolution of vegetation communities in complex urban ecosystems, with clear interpretations in terms of diverse anthropogenic constraints.

Mangrove habitats are known to provide essential ecosystem services to tropical countries around the world. These habitats are considered extreme for the organisms living within them, because they are subject to high temperatures, and substantial fluctuations in salinity levels and ultraviolet radiation. Among these organisms are the algae, a group of primary producers often found in association with mangrove prop roots and pneumatophores. To cope with the extreme conditions, algae are known to produce interesting osmolytes and secondary metabolites. In the Republic of the Maldives, mangrove-associated algae are extremely understudied. After carefully preparing an updated checklist of algae reported in the country, we found that only six benthic algal species haveb been reported in association with mangroves, and no information about their chemical composition is currently available. We conducted a field survey of algal diversity in the Maldivian mangroves from two central and two northern atolls and analyzed their chemical profile by GC and HPLC, with particular regards to low molecular weight carbohydrates and the UV-absorbing molecules mycosporine-like amino acids. The predominant taxa observed were members of the families Rhodomelaceae (Rhodophyta) and Cladophoraceae (Chlorophyta), which showed significant qualitative and quantitative differences in chemical composition across sites. Additionally, we discovered the presence of an algal taxon commonly observed in association with mangroves around the world, but previously unreported from the Maldivian mangroves. The explored habitats showed diverse geomorphological and environmental characteristics across sites, thus providing an interesting ground to study patterns in algal osmolyte and secondary metabolite production. Understanding the diversity and chemical composition of Maldivian mangrove-associated algae will help us understand the contributions of these important organisms to these essential ecosystems.

Marine ecosystems are currently experiencing rapid changes, characterized by rising temperatures and more frequent extreme climatic events, which are having profound impacts across all levels of the ecological hierarchy. Marine heat waves (MHWs) and subsequent extreme storms pose significant threats to marine communities, causing alterations in their structure and composition. Understanding how key benthic structuring species respond to these environmental changes has become crucial, as local biodiversity relies heavily on their conservation status. The larval stage plays a particularly pivotal role in the life cycle of sessile organisms, facilitating the maintenance of local populations and the dispersal of species. Despite its critical importance, there remains limited understanding of how larval stages respond to environmental changes across many taxa. This study specifically investigates the response of the larval stage of a significant Mediterranean endemic habitat-former, the orange coral Astroides calycularis (Pallas 1766), under realistic single and multiple stressor conditions using manipulative mesocosm experiments. Our experiments exposed coral larvae to heat-temperature spikes, MHWs, and combined MHWs with dropping salinity treatments. We examined metabolic performance responses of the early-life stage, as well as larval survival and settlement abilities. Results indicated that rising temperatures and decreasing salinity significantly impair the species' performance, resulting in accelerated metabolism, faster settlement rates, and increased mortality. These findings are essential for comprehending and predicting species distribution and population dynamics under current and future environmental change scenarios. They also shed light on the fate of biodiversity associated with this habitat-forming species in the Mediterranean.

Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) provide an essential ecosystem service as pollinators. However, given their characteristics -big colonial size, generalist diet, wide foraging ranges- and their management, honeybees are capable of monopolising trophic resources (pollen and nectar), potentially impairing the survival of other species of wild bees. Competition can be especially harsh in small and homogeneous ecosystems, such as small islands. We investigated such potential competition on Giannutri, a small island within the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, in which 18 hives of managed honeybees are seasonally introduced since 2018. Spatial and flower-visits overlap between honeybees and wild bees suggests potential exploitative competition. Our experimental approach was to manipulate honeybees’ abundance by closing and opening the beehives, to obtain 2 experimental conditions in which we assessed: a) the abundance of different species of Apoidea, through transect walks; b) trophic resources availability, through quantification of nectar volume (on Teucrium fruticans L. and Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.) and presence/absence of pollen (on T. fruticans); c) foraging pattern behaviours of target wild bees (Anthophora dispar Lepeletier and Bombus terrestris L.), through focal behavioural sampling and observation plots. We documented: a) a decline in the number of individuals of the target species over 4 years; b) a lower availability of trophic resources in days with presence of honeybees; c) changes in foraging behaviour patterns in target wild bees (e.g. less time spent in nectar suction on individual flowers by wild bees in presence of honeybees). Our results suggest that honeybees can have a detrimental effect on wild bees. Giannutri, therefore, represents not only a study area in which we want to safeguard wild bees' populations, but also a model system of a small Mediterranean landscape. In view of this, our findings can drive the draw up of new guidelines towards a more aware and sustainable beekeeping practice.

The health of bees and other pollinating insects is increasingly threatened by human activities, which include factors like climate change, habitat destruction, parasitic infections, diseases, and notably, environmental pollution and pesticide use in agriculture. Population dynamics, the presence of Varroa destructor mites, and ecotoxicological impacts were examined in two apiaries subjected to varying levels of anthropogenic pressure. Biomarkers of neurotoxicity (acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carboxylesterase (CaE)), metabolism (alkaline phosphatase (ALP)), biotransformation (glutathione S-transferase (GST)), and immune system (lysozyme (LYS), phenoloxidase (POx), and prophenoloxidase (proPOx)) were analyzed in different worker sub-castes of Apis mellifera. Specifically, we assessed biomarker responses based on sub-caste (newly formed, adult builders, and foragers), season (spring, summer, and autumn), and potential sources of contamination. The findings revealed a physiological oscillatory pattern in population dynamics and varroa levels, attributed to control treatments for parasitosis. Enzymatic activity values varied among worker sub-castes across the three seasons, with AChE activity being lower in newly formed bees and builders compared to foragers, while GST activity was higher in newly formed bees. The application of synthetic pesticides against varroa likely resulted in toxicological effects on bees treated for parasitosis. This study enhanced our understanding of the physiological activities of the investigated enzymes in different castes, providing deeper insight into the sub-lethal effects of pesticides and environmental contaminants, and how climate change and other stressors influence the population dynamics of these insects.

Connectivity within networks of marine protected areas (MPAs) is key to support the resilience of fish communities in the long run and scale up the benefits provided by single MPAs. Therefore, connectivity assessments are crucial for designing effective conservation strategies for fish populations. In the context of the Italian national research project “Reconnect”, we analyse connectivity among existing and candidate MPAs in Sicilian coastal waters using the dusky grouper Epinephelus marginatus as a model species, in view of (i) its key ecological role in Mediterranean rocky reef ecosystems, (ii) its vulnerability to intensive fishing and (iii) the concurrent knowledge gap on its population structure and dispersal features. We study connectivity using an individual-based bio-physical model and simulate larval dispersal with a Lagrangian approach. Species distribution models – providing predicted biomass of E. marginatus in space – are used as initial conditions of the simulations and are generated based on field data gathered either via underwater visual censuses (UVCs) or baited underwater videos (BUVs), depending on bathymetric conditions. To harmonise the data from these two census methodologies, their statistical relationship was explored on a pre-existing dataset by fitting various statistical regression models (e.g., generalised linear models, two-parts models). This analytical framework allows for the elaboration of a set of connectivity metrics to (i) assess the performance of the existing MPAs network in the study area and (ii) identify potential connectivity hotspots where to funnel future conservation effort and reduce anthropogenic disturbance, ultimately contributing to science-informed MPAs spatial planning.

Transitional environments in deltaic areas host a diverse range of aquatic ecosystems, each characterized by distinct living communities and ecological functions. Understanding these ecosystems is essential for their management and biological conservation. This study investigates the conservation value and ecosystem functioning of eight aquatic systems within the Po River Delta Park (Italy), one of Europe's most significant transitional areas, using fish communities as indicators based on presence/absence data.The analysis considered seasonal patterns in species occurrences and respective functional traits. Initially, multivariate analyses were performed to assess the impact of environmental characteristics on community composition. Subsequently, conservation values were measured through community composition, and the functional roles of wetlands were evaluated by examining fish traits related to habitat use and feeding mode. The contributions of different wetlands to alpha and beta diversity were also explored.The results indicated that water level patterns (artificial vs. tidal) and wetland surface area were the most influential factors in determining the species composition of fish communities in both taxonomic and functional terms. Coastal wetlands exhibited a higher number of species, including protected ones, indicating a greater conservation value. Functional beta diversity analysis revealed that migratory species significantly contribute to functional beta diversity, emphasizing the role of wetlands as nurseries and feeding grounds. During winter and autumn, detritivorous species primarily drive beta diversity, while planktivorous and piscivorous species are more influential in spring and summer, highlighting trophic seasonal variations.Overall, the findings demonstrate that fish communities are effective indicators for describing and monitoring ecosystem functioning in managed transitional waters, providing valuable insights for guiding the environmental management of these unique ecosystems.

The interaction between small-scale fisheries and dolphins has always been contentious and often results in conflicts between fishermen and dolphins with important losses from both sides. These interactions could also often result in the entanglement of marine mammals in fishing gear, the major cause of mortality in marine mammals by human activities. The Tursionet project, funded by the Pelagos Initiative, aims to study the interactions and relationship between different types of fishing gear and the population of bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the coastal waters in the Pelagos Sanctuary, a Marine Protected Area for marine mammals located in the Northwestern Mediterranean between France, Italy, and Monaco. Several hydrophones have been deployed along the Ligurian coast near different types of fishing gear such as gillnets and pots in continuous recording to monitor the acoustic interactions of dolphins passing nearby. The frequency of encounters, the types of vocalizations, and the diel pattern are investigated to assess the intensity of these interactions and further explore the impacts they may have on the local population of dolphins. The different sites will also show if there are particular hotspots of activity where further monitoring may be needed. Finally, the results from this project will result in the development of automated systems that will be used in monitoring these interactions and ultimately develop mitigation strategies to reduce conflicts between the local fisheries and dolphins.

The soundscape is the acoustic environment resulting from natural and human sounds present within an ecosystem or an area. It acoustically profiles the location as a whole, comprising the fingerprint of the soniferous species using the area (biophonies), the noisy human activities (anthropophonies) and the physical phenomena (geophonies). As such, the study of the acoustic patterns and the spectral characteristics of the different components of the soundscape can be viewed as an ecological metric of the status, dynamics and health of an ecosystem, and an indicator of environmental changes.

This study aims to provide baseline information on the biophonic component of the underwater soundscape of the Marine Protected Area "Secche di Tor Paterno" (Mediterranean Sea), investigating site-specific diversity and temporal patterns in sounds’ production. Using autonomous recorders released/recovered in the MPA, 24-days acoustic data were collected in the summer 2020, 2022 and 2023. A total of 6.741 files corresponding to 113 hours of recordings was analysed using Raven Pro, Rx and Avisoft Pro software.

Biophonies were detected at all times. At least 8 categories of fish sounds were recognized, indicating the positive acoustic presence of Scorpaena spp., Sciaena umbra and the cryptic Ophidion spp. Bray-call series emitted by bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and impulsive sounds produced by Alpheidae species (i.e. snapping shrimps) were discriminated as well. The monthly/daily patterns revealed that fishes were acoustically active during the night, while crustaceans all-day-long, with two significant activity peaks (sunrise and sunset). The intense, concomitant nocturnal sound production by different fish species – mainly related to reproduction – was affected by the noise generated by vessels crossing the MPA, with a reduction of the emission rates.

These early findings emphasize the importance of soundscape studies to understand the acoustic community of a site, detect its changes/alterations, and improve MPA conservation effectiveness.

Nature Restoration Law (NRL) aims to restore 20% of terrestrial and marine degraded ecosystems of the European territory by 2030. To achieve this goal, each Country must contribute at both national and regional scales.

One of the initial provisions states that by 2030, Member States should prioritize restoring natural ecosystems within Natura 2000 sites, making it urgent to focus on the conservation status of the habitats in these areas.

We chose Sardinia as a case study because Natura 2000 sites cover a similar percentage of its territory (18,87%) compared to the National (19,38%) and the European level (18,6%). Additionally, Sardinia's insularity, high biodiversity levels, and low population density make it an ideal model to test NRL feasibility.

We collected official Natura 2000 data from the Italian Ministry of the Environment (MASE). For each habitat within each site, we assessed the potential for restoration based on the value of the conservation status, i.e. the degree of conservation of the structure and functions of the natural habitat type concerned and restoration possibilities.

Results show that coastal ecosystems are the most endangered, with a few exceptions in habitats with limiting environmental characteristics, such as sea cliffs.

Despite the importance of restoring these environments in terms of biodiversity safeguards, their reduced distribution will have a limited impact on the NRL target, while forest and shrub habitats will potentially be the major contributors.

Relying solely on habitat restoration within Natura 2000 areas will not be sufficient to meet the NRL targets. This implies that interventions in natural areas outside Natura 2000 and agricultural territories will be necessary.

A qualitative analysis at the regional scale can provide insight into the feasibility of reaching the NRL targets and provides an example that can be adjusted and replicated at higher hierarchical levels across Europe.

In alignment with the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration and the UNESCO Agenda for Sustainable Development, significant efforts are underway to protect and restore marine ecosystems such as the newly approved EU Nature Restoration Law. Within this framework, the Ocean Citizen EU project (HORIZON-MISS-2021-OCEAN-02) aims to develop replicable marine restoration protocols that integrate habitat restoration, carbon immobilization, and biodiversity regeneration with social and economic benefits for local communities. Pilot sites have been selected to experimentally test and develop sustainable restoration actions for various shallow and deeper marine forests.

The present study focuses on restoring intertidal macroalgal forests of brown canopy-forming macroalgae in one pilot site, Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain). Macroalgal forests are among the Earth's most productive and biodiversity-rich ecosystems, supporting fisheries and enhancing ecosystem resilience. Despite their ecological importance, they are in regression worldwide, including the study site where declines of 90% of the extension of some Cystoseira sensu lato species have been reported in the last decades, mainly attributed to ocean warming and habitat degradation These declines are calling the need for urgent actions to prevent further losses and restore areas unable to recover naturally.

To enhance restoration efficiency, several preparatory steps are undertaken. First, we are characterizing the macroalgal communities in the restoration site, establishing a critical baseline for evaluating restoration success and community evolution. We are also assessing habitat suitability following identification of potential stressors. Additionally, we are evaluating potential Cystoseira s.l. species for restoration, donor sites, and ex-situ out-planting techniques. Finally, we are developing a long-term monitoring protocol to assess restoration evolution.

This research provides crucial knowledge for restoring marine biodiversity and sustaining the ecosystem services provided by macroalgal forests. Outcomes will support marine conservation efforts, ensuring the long-term viability and the myriad benefits these ecosystems offer to marine life and coastal communities.

Several tunnelling projects have been implementing in Europe and worldwide for easily connecting people in areas with geographical constrains, such as the presence of mountains. For this purpose, tunnel industry produces millions of cubic meters of excavated soil (spoil material) which can be re-used for different purposes, in line with circular economy. Lime (1–6%) can be added for chemically stabilize excavated materials soils and makes it possible its handling. However, lime addition to SM leads to a significant increase in soil pH up to very high values (ca. 12), with possible deleterious effects if it will be in contact with soil biota or plants. In this work, a real case study, where a tunnel for the A1 highway has been implemented, for planning revegetation and reforestation of the degraded construction site area (Appennini Mountain, close to Florence, Italy) is reported. Microcosm experiments were set-up for 4 months with spoil material and surface soil mixed with different organic amendments (OAs) (compost, pomace or digestate) for evaluating Medicago sativa growth and soil quality improvements. Subsequently, at the construction site, a field experiment was set up using mesocosms with the same OAs and five tree/shrub species commonly present in this region: Ostrya carpinifolia (black hornbeam), Quercus pubescens (downy oak), Fraxinus ornus (ash), Olea europaea (olive) and Corylus avellana (hazel). The plant survival and development was evaluated as well as soil characteristics (e.g. pH, organic carbon) and microbial community structure and functioning in amended and un-amended mesocosms for 3 years. The soil quality increased significantly adding OAs, with the best results and plant growth in digestate or compost presence. These experiments are propaedeutic to the implementation of the new reforestation in the degraded area.

Given the rising need for forest restoration, identifying resilient local biodiversity for present and novel climates is crucial. Current species selection for reforestation will have a persistent effect on forest resilience, however, a comprehensive framework for monitoring the success of these programs is still in its infancy. This study employs a functional trait-based approach to evaluate the suitability of the species: Fraxinus ornus, Quercus cerris and Quercus pubescens in the short term for reforestation within a Mediterranean protected area. We focused on traits associated with hydraulics, carbon utilization and storage (e.g., water use efficiency, net assimilation rate, non-structural carbohydrates), posited as crucial for species’ growth and survival, particularly in environments facing prolonged hot-drought spells in summer. Our objectives include determining which traits contributed to different performances. They might suppose an advantage across species under short-term drought in a botanical garden experiment and post-planting in the reforestation site. Secondly, we explored whether the carbon storage may have played a role in the survival of the transplanted species in the reforestation site, after the summer period. Therefore, we compared the non-structural carbohydrate pool in both alive and dead seedlings in the study area and the nursery seedlings.

Natural reforestation and reforestation facilitated by wood mulch represent two distinct approaches to recover degraded forests, each offering unique advantages and challenges. Differently from the natural reforestation, that facilitated by mulch involves the application of organic materials, such as wood chips, on the soil in order to enhance plant growth. Indeed, mulch preserves soil moisture, minimizes erosion, suppresses weeds, and enhances soil structure and fertility through the organic decomposition. The research aimed to evaluate whether natural reforestation (NR) and reforestation facilitated by wood mulch (MR) noticeably modified the soil properties. In order to achieve the aim, soils (depth: 0-10 cm) collected after two years of the reforestation process, performed within the Vesuvius National Park, were characterized for the main abiotic and biotic properties that were compared to those of un-reforested shrubs (N). Particularly, the soil samples were analyzed for pH, water content, organic and total C contents, and N, Al, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb and Zn concentrations. Moreover, DNA yield, microbial respiration and activities of hydrolase, dehydrogenase, b-glucosidase and urease were measured. In order to integrate some of the investigated soil properties, the Integrative Biological Responses (IBR) index was calculated to consider the biotic ones and the Pollution Load Index (PLI) was calculated to evaluate the degree of the soil metal contamination. The findings showed that the IBR was higher in MR (6.38) than in NR (6.09) and N (5.89) soils. Instead, the PLI did not statistically vary among MR (1.75), NR (1.90) and N (1.81) soils. In conclusion, only the reforestation facilitated by wood mulch would seem to enhance the biological response although further investigations need in order to monitor the trend over the time.

Life Imagine Umbria (LIFE19 IPE/IT/000015, 2020-2027) project supports the development of a management strategy for the Natura 2000 network in the Umbria region (Italy). Its main objective is to maintain and improve the conservation status of habitats and species under the Habitats and Birds Directives, in specific target Natura 2000 Sites. Effective ecological restoration projects focused on saproxylic Coleoptera and certain Lepidoptera species have been carried out to address this issue. Best practices for enhancing the habitats of Rosalia alpina, Cerambyx cerdo, and Lucanus cervus involve measures primarily aimed at increasing the presence of senescent trees (beeches and oaks) and associated forest necromass. Specifically, the project created artificial senescence microhabitats such as uprooted trees, broken trunks on the ground, and log piles. Other techniques included a general renaturalisation of the forests by a partial removal of artificial Pinus spp. plantations aimed at restoring the original forest habitat. Best practices for Osmoderma eremita consisted mainly in creating and installing artificial cavities (Wood Mould Boxes) for increasing the presence of microhabitats suitable for larval development. Additional measures for all the Coleoptera species included creating semi-open areas, such as clearings around habitat trees. The best practices to improve the habitat of the lepidopteran Eriogaster catax consisted of creating artificial ecotonal strips rich in shrubs, predominantly blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), and protecting existing shrub areas by preventing their transformation into forests, as well as removing alien and synanthropic vegetation. Finally, the best practices for Euphydryas provincialis and Melanargia arge concerned safeguarding the grasslands by limiting the settlement of shrubs, trees, and alien or synanthropic vegetation. The project aims at implementing demonstrative actions for ecological management and habitat restoration to counteract the decline of these species and improve their conservation status.

Restoring degraded agricultural soils is essential to ensure food security, protect biodiversity, and mitigate climate change. Indeed, soil provides key ecosystem services such as food provisioning, regulation of water and nutrient cycles, and climate regulation through C sequestration in organic matter. The use of slowly-decomposing organic improvers, such as biochar and hydrochar (derived from thermochemical conversion of organic waste) may promote carbon sequestration and favour the growth of soil microorganisms, which play a fundamental role in ecosystem functioning. However, to apply these improvers on a large scale, it is necessary to exclude any negative effects on the biotic community.

As part of the interdisciplinary project "CHIMERA", financed by University of Campania L. Vanvitelli, the effects of hydrochar addition to the microbial and chemical properties of degraded agricultural soil were evaluated through a pot experiment. Two types of hydrochar, derived from hydrothermal carbonization of two distinct sources (residues of thistle - Cynara cardunculus L. - and sewage sludge, respectively), were applied in two doses (3 kg m^-2 and 6 kg m^-2). The experimental design included five treatments (four with hydrochar and one control without hydrochar), five replicates per treatment, and five exposure times (18, 72, 92, 146 and 517 days). After each period, soil samples were analyzed for microbial biomass and activity, indices of microbial metabolism (metabolic quotient and mineralizable quotient), bacterial genetic diversity (as richness) and some chemical properties (pH, total and extractable organic C, cation exchange capacity).

The results showed no toxic effects following the addition of hydrochar from sludge and thistle. An improvement in soil properties, particularly microbial biomass and activity, pH and total organic carbon content, was generally observed. However, further studies are needed to verify whether these positive effects persist in the long term and whether they are confirmed on other soil types and raw materials.

Climate change, pollution, and environmental degradation pose significant threats to the stability of agricultural production and investment planning in this sector. This necessitates the diversification of the agricultural output alongside the creation of resilient and sustainable agro-ecosystems. Diversification can also occur outside traditional cropping systems through ecological infrastructures that create favourable habitats for beneficial insects, such as pollinators, and provide food sources for domesticated animals like honeybees. Recent FAO studies indicate that increasing the density and variety of pollinating insects directly impacts crop productivity and can help small farmers enhance their average yields. Furthermore, pollinating insects play a crucial role in ecosystem regulation, with the value of pollination services necessary for food production amounting to approximately 260 billion euros annually. Unfortunately, we are witnessing a constant increase in insect mortality, with a serious risk of extinction for wild pollinators and honeybees. The API project aimed to develop an integrated and multifunctional farm model that synergizes beekeepers and farmers, enhancing farm profitability through sustainable apiculture and also improving the environmental and economic sustainability of beekeeping by maintaining and increasing the survival and productivity of bees. A survey of botanical species was conducted on each farm and showed the presence of more than 300 species relevant to beekeeping. In areas where nectar-producing species were insufficient, multi-floral meadows were planted, tailored to the farms' specific soil, climate, and altitude characteristics. Additionally, we recorded the ecological infrastructures containing native botanical species beneficial for wild pollinators and implemented these in the marginal areas of the farms. The effectiveness of the implemented actions was monitored by evaluating the health status of both introduced and existing bee populations on the farms and checking contaminant levels in the samples collected by the colonies. Additionally, surveys were conducted at each site to assess pollinator diversity.

Urban green spaces provide ecosystem services, including biodiversity conservation and human well-being. Requalifying abandoned lands or planning new green areas with native species offer environmental and cultural benefits. This study explored the sustainable and eco-friendly application of compost (2 kg m^-2) to Technosols, to improve soil quality and its suitability for plant growth. Soil quality was assessed before compost addition and for one year after plant establishment, while the effect on plants by monitoring structural and functional traits of the herbaceous spontaneous Malva sylvestris L. (Ms) and the transplanted Mediterranean sclerophyllous Phillyrea angustifolia L. (Pa) and Quercus ilex L. (Qi). Compost addition increased soil nutrient availability over time and favoured the physiological performance of Ms in long-lasting promoting high photosynthetic efficiency and carbon investment in photosynthetic tissues. Conversely, Pa and Qi maintained after 11 months higher leaf water content, despite limited soil water availability, suggesting a slower response to compost addition. The results indicate that compost can enhance Technosols quality, benefiting all species involved and potentially contributing positively to urban greening and ecosystem services.

RENOVATE is an Italian applied research project whose main objective is to restore the functions and services of the marine ecosystem affected by the expansion of the Civitavecchia Port Hub. It includes restoration and mitigation measures for the priority Habitat 1120* (Posidonia oceanica) and some biocoenoses of Habitat 1170 (Reefs, such as Coralligenous, Cystoseira s.l.) and two species of high naturalistic and ecological importance: Corallium rubrum and Pinna nobilis.

RENOVATE is an ambitious Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) project based on innovative, holistic approaches aimed at achieving medium- to long-term goals to restore the functionality of habitats to the extent that they have been lost. The design phase, the experimental set-up and the duration of the project (10 years) ensure the success of the actions through rigorous planning, continuous monitoring, maintenance, review and adaptation of the experimental actions based on the results obtained.

To develop this approach, it is necessary to implement an integrated modelling and observing system and operational modelling at regional and coastal scales. This will contribute to the planning phase of restoration, development of an early warning system for extreme events, dredging and avoidance of potential impacts, implementation of ecological compensation measures to restore ecosystem services, siting and implementation of NBS and monitoring of recovery of ecosystem services over 10 years.

Preliminary results will be presented showing promising trends in the recovery of Cystoseira s.l. and Coralligenous. Initial monitoring data indicate positive responses that emphasize the potential effectiveness of the implemented measures.

Aquaculture is one of the most rapidly expanding sectors in global food production, contributing slightly over half of the world's fish for human consumption. However, concerns regarding the environmental impact of aquaculture operations and the potential for sustainability persist. Coastal areas designated for aquaculture often experience compromised water quality due to human activities, such as wastewater drainage and discharge of aquaculture residues, resulting in ecosystem damage. In light of these concerns, integrating effective remediation systems with aquaculture becomes imperative.

Previous studies have highlighted the role of mussels in reducing chlorophyll, phosphorus, and nitrogen levels in salmon farming. Recent research demonstrated their efficacy as biofilters for microplastics and metals. This study aims to further explore the potential of mussels as biofilters in fish farming systems.

Mussels were exposed in microcosms at a density of 1 individual per liter, either in the presence or absence of algae. Mussels demonstrated significant metal accumulation abilities over a 10-day exposure period. Statistical analysis using robust linear regression models indicated that external metal concentration significantly influenced internal metal concentration. Metals such as Ag, Cd, Co, Cr, and Pb showed high significance across all exposure levels, both in the presence and absence of algae. Other metals, including Cu, Fe, Ni, V, and Zn, showed partial significance, while Mn did not exhibit a significant effect.

We developed a mathematical model for heavy metal removal in aquaculture. This model incorporates the decay rate k for each metal species and includes parameters such as metal input, system volume, and the number of mussels to be deployed in the aquaculture farm. The numerical model effectively predicts the reduction of metal concentrations over-time, providing critical insights for designing mussel-based biofilters. These findings contribute to the broader goals of the Italian project Fish RISE (ARS01_01053), supporting sustainability and environmental protection in aquaculture practices

Seagrass meadows and macroalgal (Fucales) forests are hot spots of biodiversity in coastal areas and play a key role in the provisioning of ecosystem services. These habitats experienced regression in the Mediterranean basin in the last decades, due to a combination of multiple anthropogenic and climate-induced impacts. The ecological restoration of these habitat-forming species is a priority to reverse biodiversity loss and for the recovery of their ecosystem functions. We report here successful case studies of ecological restoration of seagrass (Cymodocea nodosa) and Fucales (Gongolaria barbata) along the coasts of the Marche region (NW Adriatic Sea). Benthic biodiversity (using meiofauna as a proxy) was analyzed in terms of abundance, richness of taxa and taxonomic/species (nematode) composition. Three interventions were carried out: 1) transplanting of the seagrass Cymodocea nodosa at Gabicce and the restoration of the brown alga Gongolaria barbata in the Conero Riviera and in Site of National Interest (SNI) of Falconara Marittima. At “Falconara” site we combined active and passive restoration interventions, as this site has been interdicted for years. All the applied approaches were successful in restoring the damaged habitats and recovering natural populations. Active and active/passive restoration interventions, however, 6/12 months after the interventions, showed both biodiversity and assemblage structure different from the controls when considering meiofaunal assemblages as proxy of biodiversity. Nematodes resulted useful indicators of restoration success. Macrophytes’ restoration can be successful and has positive effects on benthic local biodiversity, however, is a relatively long process that can take years to reach a complete recovery. A multilevel approach and habitat inter-connected approach could be useful to increase restoration success and resilience of damaged vegetated habitats.

An increasingly common approach to halting degradation and promoting the recovery of marine ecosystems and the provision of associated ecosystem services is the implementation of seagrass restoration projects. However, evaluation of the success of seagrass restoration is still based on long-term monitoring of structural indicators such as survival and density of transplanted plants. In contrast, functional indicators may be better suited to provide more rapid information on the recovery of ecosystem functions, which is usually considered to be the main objective of ecosystem restoration. In this study, the Five-star System and the Recovery Wheel monitoring framework, launched by the Society for Ecological Restoration in 2016, were applied to assess the overall progress one year after a restoration intervention in a degraded area (Gulf of Palermo, Sicily, Mediterranean) by transplanting Posidonia oceanica. Six ecosystem attributes covering functional and structural aspects: (i) physical conditions (sediment dynamics), (ii) species composition (fish composition and functional response), (iii) ecosystem function (habitat processes and interactions), (iv) absence of threats (chemical pollution), (v) structural diversity (fish biodiversity) and (vi) plant health (growth and physiology of P. oceanica) were selected and monitored at the restored site and at a reference site (i.e. the healthy nearby donor meadow). Functional attributes showed an overall improvement over the reference site one year after transplantation, while indicators of chemical pollution and fish diversity did not change over time, and P. oceanica health indicators actually deteriorated. Although a period of less than 10 years is usually considered too short to assess the success of ecosystem restoration interventions, here we have shown that the first signs of functional recovery are already detectable one year after seagrass transplantation. However, the structural response of associated fish, the reduction in pollution levels and, even more importantly, the improvement in plant health take longer to recover.

A crucial challenge in ecosystem restoration, due to the ecological system complexities and the spatial and temporal scales involved, is the prediction of system evolution, the associated uncertainties and the final outcomes. A natural approach to this goal is the use of process-based models, but their requirements in terms of data and mechanistic understanding of system ecology still limit their adoption in the restoration of high complexity systems. Indeed, despite the large amount of data globally acquired, the lack of shared comprehensive strategies for what needs to be collected and how, promotes the adoption of heuristic approaches based on collections of failures and successes. A remarkable example in this context is provided by the restoration of Posidonia oceanica meadows, one of the most important Mediterranean marine coastal ecosystems in terms of productivity, biodiversity and control of local, regional and even global ecological dynamics. The limited resilience of these ecosystems, threatened by diverse anthropogenic pressures, forces the adoption of restoration approaches with variable and hardly predictable degree of effectiveness. With the aim to transitioning from heuristic to mechanistic restoration approaches, the research focused on creating an individual-based model of meadow evolution grounded in Dynamic Energy Budget theory, and a cured and harmonized information base on P. oceanica ecology, summarizing more than 6 decades of research in the form of an open geo-database. Results revealed striking imbalances in data type, quality and redundance, with surprising shortage of usable data for model development and parameterization. The coupling between the information base and the model, however, has the potential to form a feedback loop providing the much-needed strategy to move from heuristics to mechanistic approaches. Indeed, the model’s functional hypotheses can orient the collection of data embedded in clear theoretical processes, which in turn allow model development ensuring the effectiveness of restoration approaches.

Active restoration actions are considered reliable strategies for enhancing seagrass ecosystems within an acceptable time frame. Effective future seagrass restoration management requires valuable information on the effectiveness of past restoration actions. At this aim, we have quantitatively collated evidence of restoration actions for the slow-growing seagrass Posidonia oceanica, endemic to the Mediterranean Sea. A meta-analysis of the literature, consisting of 33 documents and 1223 case studies was conducted to provide evidence on any human mediated active restoration, transplanting or rehabilitation outcomes of P. oceanica. Results identified the geographical distribution of interventions across countries, their environmental conditions (such as the transplanting depth and type of substrate) as well as the procedural contexts of trials including surface, transplanted plant portion, anchoring technique and monitoring variables. The current study identified an overall lack of standardization in the practices and methodologies used, as well the monitoring variables that severely constrain the analysis of P. oceanica restoration outcomes. However, positive outcomes were observed when transplanting in matte substrate, using plagiotropic rhizomes and modular anchoring systems. Moreover, seagrass restoration success is related to shallow transplants, using deeper donor shoots, transplanting with low density and, not surprisingly, when monitoring more than 30 months. Overall, our outcomes clamours for increased funding for monitoring and reporting outcomes, and improved monitoring consistency, that could greatly enhance the understanding of P. oceanica restoration keeping it more effective.