Spain is one of the richest countries in Europe in terms of marine biodiversity, and many important economic activities depend on this wealth. Understanding and suitably managing marine ecosystems will facilitate their conservation and enable the activities that depend on them to be regulated, ensuring
Spain is one of the richest countries in Europe in terms of marine biodiversity, and many important economic activities depend on this wealth. Understanding and suitably managing marine ecosystems will facilitate their conservation and enable the activities that depend on them to be regulated, ensuring that the sea will continue to be a source of both work and food.
The scientific study of the oceans is a painstaking task that requires significant human and economic resources. To all of this it is necessary to add socioeconomic studies, which are fundamental for correctly developing management plans for future protected areas.
For 6 years, the LIFE+INDEMARES project has been studying the deep-sea habitats, pelagic species and seabirds that represent the enormous biodiversity of our seas, and has also analysed the human use of these areas. The aim has been to understand the natural and socioeconomic values in order to complete the Natura 2000 Network for marine environments.
INDEMARES, which is 50% co-financed by the European Commission, began in January 2009 and 