The contribution of science is invaluable for understanding many environmental challenges and the causal relationship between them and human activity. Based on the above, Aenaos Thalassa has developed a steady and ongoing relationship with the scientific community, through the support of research, projects, studies, etc., that identify environmental problems, assess the impact of various factors and propose mitigation measures.
Fish Fish (1,2,3)
A recurring study (conducted by Professor Athanasios Tsikliras and the Department of Ichthyology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki – AUTh), which aims to monitor fish stocks in the NMPANS through the recording of fishing activity in Alonissos (fishing fleet and gear) and catch composition, biomass estimation and comparison with data from other areas. The systematic study of the area allows for the drawing of critical conclusions regarding the evolution of fish stocks in the Alonissos Marine Park.
- Read the 2017–2018 research here
- Read the 2021–2022 research here
- Read the 2024–2025 research here
Water Quality of the Alonissos Marine Area
The project “Data collection on marine water quality” was carried out in 2017 by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and focused on the chemical assessment of water quality in the Alonissos Marine Park. The project also included:
i) the measurement of various physicochemical parameters (dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, salinity, transparency, turbidity) of the waters on-site,
ii) the determination of concentrations of inorganic nutrients, Chl-a, BOD, COD and TSS in water samples, and
iii) the development of a model for evaluating the monitored water parameters, using a remote sensing approach.
Read the research here
Pilot Mapping of Coralligenous Forests
The first systematic mapping of corals in the NMPANS through the implementation of the project “Initial study of mesophotic coralligenous gardens in the Sporades Archipelago.” The main objective of the project is to provide an initial assessment of the coral population and a basis for further studies aimed at highlighting the potential significance of the Sporades Archipelago as a “hotspot” for the conservation of Mediterranean corals.
The project was carried out by the company terrasolutions from June 2021 to February 2022.
Read the research here
Nationwide Mapping of Mediterranean Monk Seal Populations
The nationwide project “Mapping for Conservation” aimed to promote the conservation of the endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) at a national level, through the identification of important breeding sites, collaboration with local stakeholders and the inclusion of key breeding and resting sites in the Natura 2000 network in Greece.
The project was implemented by MOm/the Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal (www.mom.gr), co-funded by the MAVA Foundation, and forms part of the broader programme “Monk Seal Conservation Efforts in the Eastern Mediterranean.”
The continuous, targeted and scientifically structured efforts for the conservation of the species, both in Greece and in other Mediterranean countries, resulted in the reclassification of the Mediterranean Monk Seal on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, changing its previous category from “Endangered” to “Vulnerable.”
Read the research here
Pilot Mapping of Posidonia Oceanica Meadows in the NMPANS
In 2017, Aenaos Thalassa decided to actively support the scientific monitoring and recording of key parameters of the local marine ecosystem, and within this framework the mapping of Posidonia oceanica was carried out. MOm/the Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal was the coordinator of the project, and its results provided significant knowledge and comparative data, which will serve as a reference point for monitoring the condition of the Marine Park, both today and in the future.
Read the research here