Research Directions:
Population genetics and phylogeography
Environmental genomics
Marine biodiversity
Description:
The SEALIFE project aims to support the conservation and recolonization of the Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus in its natural environment in the Adriatic-Ionian region, as a flagship species for a healthy marine ecosystem. The project aims at cross-border cooperation for the monitoring and conservation of the Mediterranean monk seal, by promoting collaborative actions and developing a common list of management methods and action plan across the programme area. It also seeks to promote conservation actions and protect Monk seal habitats through evidence-based approaches. This initiative will strengthen local capacities and establish a unified strategy for the conservation of this highly mobile species in the project area. The project is ultimately expected to play a critical role in improving the health of marine ecosystems and will significantly contribute to reversing biodiversity loss in the project area