Marine Ecosystems in Greece Face Collapse, Experts Warn

Marine experts are raising alarms over the deterioration of crucial underwater ecosystems in Greece’s seas.

According to Maria Salomidi, a researcher at the Hellenic Center for Marine Research, Greece has lost 60% of its underwater algae forests on reefs.

“We’ve observed this collapse for years, but the past decade has seen a significant and alarming increase. Climate change and the rise of alien species exacerbate the situation. I fear for the future of our seas,” Salomidi told Kathimerini.

Salomidi identifies two primary causes for this collapse. In the northern Aegean, the spread of herbivorous sea urchins, which graze uncontrollably, prevents the natural regeneration of kelp forests. In the southern Aegean and Ionian seas, the overabundance of herbivorous fish and invasive species, driven by the decimation of top predators due to chronic overfishing, further aggravates the issue.

Experts suggest that to address this problem, beyond limiting fishing, efforts must include the reforestation of these underwater ecosystems.

Source: kathimerini.com