Academic Studies

1- Karadurmuş U., Sarı M. (2022). The last hope: the struggle for survival of fan mussels in the Gulf of Erdek, Sea of Marmara, Turkey. Mediterranean Marine Science, 23(3): 473–483. https://doi.org/10.12681/mms.28474

This study presents the results of the first large-scale assessment of the spatial distribution of Pinna populations in the Gulf of Erdek, based on underwater surveys. Population density and structure were estimated through underwater visual surveys conducted over a study area of 9080 km². A total of 2164 mussels were counted at 29 stations, with densities reaching up to 71.2 individuals per 100 m². The researchers emphasize that benthic habitats, depth, and human activities influence the spatial distribution and survival of the population. Seagrass beds in shallow waters provide shelter, growth, and habitat for juvenile Pinnas. Despite tourism, fishing, diving activities, and unidentified mortalities, the results indicate a promising scenario for Pinna populations in the Gulf of Erdek, highlighting the presence of many viable juveniles that can play a critical role in the population’s sustainability.

1- Sarı M., Karadurmuş U., Benli T. (2022). The Cry of Pinnas. Borusan Holding & Impact Hub Istanbul, Sustainable Benefit Program.

This project aims to contribute to the restoration of the Marmara Sea ecosystem, which has been degraded due to mucilage, and to the sustainable management of fan mussel (Pinna nobilis) populations, which play a significant ecological role in the Mediterranean. The goal is to produce scientific data in pilot areas that can be applied to other regions and to develop special protection and restoration strategies. The study area includes 105 km of coastline along the Kapıdağ Peninsula and Bandırma shores. The project also serves blue growth through restoration and dissemination activities.

2- Karadurmuş U., Sarı M. (2021). Distribution, Population Dynamics, and Conservation Efforts of Pinna nobilis Populations along the Erdek Coastline. Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University Scientific Research Coordination Unit, Project No: BAP-20-1004-003.

Recent mortality events in the Mediterranean basin highlight the need for regular monitoring of the endangered endemic bivalve Pinna nobilis populations. This project aims to determine the distribution and density of Pinna populations along the Erdek coastline, explore the relationship between distribution and the physico-chemical properties of the water, assess the population’s status and biological characteristics, and propose Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Special Protected Areas (SPAs).

Pinnas Will Save the Sea of Marmara

The “Hope for Marmara: Pinna” project, led by the Faculty of Maritime at Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University and supported by Borusan Holding, will officially launch with its first meeting on April 12.

Initiated in January 2023 under the “Sustainability Benefit Program” by Borusan Holding and Impact Hub Istanbul, the project aims to protect and increase the population of Pinna nobilis, a species capable of filtering six liters of seawater per hour, thereby playing a key role in combating mucilage in the Sea of Marmara. Led by Prof. Dr. Mustafa SARI, the project focuses on addressing the mucilage problem caused by climate change, environmental degradation, and marine pollution.

Pinna nobilis, the largest bivalve in the Mediterranean, filters six liters of seawater per hour, making it a vital ally in the fight against mucilage. Due to its ecological importance, the species is protected under international agreements and national laws. While a disease outbreak in 2016 led to mass die-offs in the Mediterranean, Pinnas have managed to survive in the unique environment of the Sea of Marmara, which now serves as their final refuge.

To date, the “Hope for Marmara: Pinna” project has conducted over 200 dives across 80 sites along a 150-km coastline, yielding significant findings. The project aims to raise awareness and garner support from volunteers, public institutions, NGOs, municipalities, and local communities to reduce human pressures and achieve a mucilage-free Sea of Marmara.

The first meeting of the project, which began in January, will be held on April 12, 2023, in Erdek. Supported by the Erdek District Governorship, Erdek Municipality, and Erdek Chamber of Commerce, the meeting will present the project’s objectives, findings, and targets. The event is open to anyone interested in supporting and participating in the project.

The hope of Marmara is Pinna; the hope of Pinna is Marmara!

For more information:

Prof. Dr. Mustafa SARI

Email: [email protected]

Mobile: +90 505 800 16 02

Website: www.umutpina.com.tr

Note: Click the link for photos, videos, and posters: https://we.tl/t-RVojJ1fqOF