PROJECT OBJETIVES
The main objectives of the project are based on the Sustainability and Replicability of the project, objectives that coincide with the basic philosophy of the LIFE programme. The project also has the following specific objectives
Development of social awareness in environmental protection and sustainability.
New strategy for recovery of the species through the transport of Specimens from the Donor Area Melilla) to the Receiving Area (Algeciras) with a population in regression.
To promote a new specific protocol for the management of Patella ferruginea.
To communicate and disseminate progress and results
Development of AIMS (Artificial Inert Mobile Substrates) through 3D printing technology and/or traditional methods for the translocation of the specimens.
Establishment of the replicability of this technology in other areas (Spanish, French, Italian and Moroccan coasts) and for other species.
LINES OF ACTION
Acquisition of permits for the Management of the species and the introduction of Artificial Inert Mobile Substrates (AIMS) at the Donor Area (Melilla) and Receiving Area (Algeciras). Any manipulation of the species, which is in danger of extinction, and live specimens and the work of introducing the mobile substrates require proper authorisations. The LIFE REMoPaF Project, therefore, will request all permits from Public Administrations and Bodies responsible prior to the commencement of any project activity.
Preparation of the Activity and Management Protocol for the species. With the aim of maintaining protection and conservation of the species and its habitat, an activity protocol has been prepared which contains the preventive actions to be carried out in managing live specimens, the conditions of translocation, the most suitable periods, protection techniques for the minimisation of impact on their habitat and biology and conditions for recruitment etc.
Design of artificial substrates (AIMS), with innovative 3D technology and/or conventional methods to ensure maximum replicability of the species’ natural conditions in its natural environment. Thus, the design of the substrates, where possible, has followed the scientific criteria established by experts on the species, working to replicate to the maximum the natural substrate to which the species attaches itself and creates its “home scar”. The design is also conditioned by the strong waves in the donor areas, the positioning and incline of the blocks and the ecology of the species itself, which is why work is performed step by step so that the design of the substrates can be adjusted to respond to all of the conditioning factors that arise as a natural result of the initiation of the work.
Design of the anchors both at the Donor Area and Receiving Area. The wave conditions differ from one area to the other, both within the predicted positions for anchoring of the substrates (AIMS) and according to the type of substrate. For this reason the anchors are carefully designed meticulously allowing for both resistance to physical and environmental factors in the donor and receiving areas and to allow the fixing and translocation of the AIMS substrates.
Characterisation of the Donor and Receiving Areas, through climatological monitoring of both areas, control of parameters for the viability of the species (level of chlorophyll, substrates, turbidity, etc.).
Laying and securing of artificial substrates (AIMS) and anchors in thorough detail, one by one, to minimise the potential effect on the species and its habitat in the donor area.
Maintenance and tracking of artificial substrates (AIMS) at a technical level, verifying resistance, layout options, etc.
Monitoring of populations and communities both of Patella ferruginea and associated species in their habitat in the Donor Area (Melilla). Environmental and biological monitoring of recruitment of juveniles in same during the period of the species’ reproductive cycle up to introduction of recruits. Monitoring and follow-up of environmental, social and economic impact on the donor area.
Translocation of artificial substrates (AIMS) with effective recruitment of individual juvenile Patella ferruginea to the Receiving Area (Algeciras) in accordance with the translocation protocol established for that specific purpose.
Introduction of the substrates to the Receiving Area (Algeciras), subsequent to prior installation of anchors.
Monitoring of populations and communities both of Patella ferruginea and associated species in their habitat in the Receiving Area (Algeciras). Monitoring and follow-up of environmental, social and economic impact on the donor area.
Management and control of project on an overall basis
Communication and dissemination of the results of the project.
Raising of public awareness of the population and status of the species for its protection and sustainability.