Summary
- The Generalitat Valenciana’s Marine Surveillance Service recently removed illegal longlines near Mil Palmeras, Pilar de la Horadada.
- Illegal longlines pose a serious threat to marine life, especially endangered species like the leatherback sea turtle.
- The rare leatherback turtle was recently sighted nearby,feeding on jellyfish,highlighting the area’s ecological importance.
- several leatherback turtles have been found stranded in the Alicante coast over past decades.
- The Marine Surveillance Service plays a key role in protecting marine biodiversity and ensuring coastal safety.
Illegal Longline Fishing Nets Removed Near Mil Palmeras to Protect Endangered Marine Species
Recently, the Marine Surveillance Service of the Generalitat Valenciana successfully removed several illegal longlines (palangres) from the waters off Mil Palmeras in Pilar de la Horadada. These unregulated fishing gears threaten vulnerable marine creatures, including the majestic leatherback sea turtle, and disrupt navigation safety in the area.
Illegal Palangres: A Hidden Threat to Marine Wildlife
Longlines are fishing equipment consisting of a main line with multiple baited hooks attached. When deployed illegally, these devices can drift uncontrolled, causing entanglement and injury to non-target species like sea turtles, dolphins, and seabirds.
- Risk to Marine Turtles: Species such as the leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) are notably vulnerable.These turtles often get caught, leading to serious injuries or death.
- Navigation Hazard: Floating or drifting illegal nets create obstacles for boats, impairing safe navigation along the coast.
- ecological Impact: Damage to marine habitats and unintended capture of protected species disturb the ecological balance.
Spotlight on the Leatherback Sea Turtle in the Mediterranean
The leatherback sea turtle, the largest of all sea turtles globally, is an uncommon visitor to the Mediterranean Sea and even rarer near coastal areas. Recently, a leatherback was spotted near Guardamar del Segura, feeding on the “fried egg” jellyfish (Cotylorhiza tuberculata), underscoring the area’s rich biodiversity.
| Year | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1982 | Dead specimen stranded | torrevieja waters |
| 1986 | Live specimen sighted | Off Cabo Roig |
| 1987 | Dead specimen stranded | Torrevieja waters |
| 2007 | dead specimen stranded on shore | Higuericas Beach, Pilar de la Horadada |
| 2011 | Dead specimen stranded on shore | La Mata Beach |
These occasional beachfront strandings over the decades highlight the fragile status of these turtles in the Mediterranean.
The Vital Role of marine Surveillance Service
The Marine Surveillance Service is key in safeguarding Alicante’s coastal marine life and ecosystems through various actions:
- Monitoring and removing illegal fishing gear such as longlines.
- Preventing anchoring on delicate seagrass meadows (fanerogamas marinas) which are essential for marine biodiversity.
- Collaborating with environmental agents, Guardia Civil, and Maritime Rescue teams to ensure safety and conservation.
Their ongoing work, frequently enough under-recognized, is crucial for the protection and study of marine biodiversity and for maintaining safe, sustainable use of coastal waters.
Conclusion
Removing illegal longlines near Mil Palmeras is a positive step toward protecting endangered marine species and maintaining navigational safety along the Alicante coast. Continued vigilance and enforcement by the Marine Surveillance Service,combined with public awareness,are essential to preserve the region’s unique marine environment for future generations.
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