The September 2023 floods in Pelion, Greece, were a devastating natural disaster, with significant ecological consequences for both terrestrial and marine ecosystems in the region. Our project, Wildlife Recovery Survey: After the September 2023 Floods in Pelion (Greece), aims to assess the impact of these floods on local biodiversity through comprehensive wildlife surveys in the affected areas. During the marine survey conducted on October 6, 2024, the entire sea area of Theotokos Beach showed no signs of marine life, except for scattered dead leaves of Posidonia oceanica. However, a small section measuring approximately 10 meters by 4 meters was an exception. This area contained a submerged Plane tree (Platanus orientalis) and fragments of broken concrete from the boat slip, debris left behind by the September 2023 floods. Only in this zone were any fish and marine species observed, which, based on previous years' surveys, are unusually rare for this location and time of year. We recorded the following 14 species:
Today’s birdwatching tour at Theotokos Beach, South Pelion (Greece) took us deep into a tranquil and remote area, where nature truly put on a show. We were treated to sightings and sounds from a variety of bird species, making the trip an unforgettable experience for all. Here's a recap of what we observed.
Birds We Spotted:
This is why I cherish these birdwatching tours—there’s always something new to discover. I’m already looking forward to the next one! The September 2023 floods in Pelion, Greece, were not just a natural disaster; they were an ecological event with profound implications for the region's terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Among the many species affected by the floods, the Common Stingray (Dasyatis pastinaca) has drawn particular attention, especially the juveniles that we were fortunate to document during the Wildlife Recovery Survey: After the September 2023 Floods in Pelion (Greece). The Importance of Juvenile Stingrays Juvenile stingrays are a critical indicator of the health of marine ecosystems. Their presence suggests successful breeding and a suitable environment for growth and development. In the context of Pelion, the discovery of juvenile Common Stingrays is particularly significant because it indicates that, despite the ecological upheaval caused by the floods, the conditions in the coastal waters still support the early life stages of this species. This observation was made today, September 3, 2024, at the beach of Theotokos in South Pelion, Greece. Additionally, the nearby beach of Liri holds the distinction of being the first officially recorded and studied nursery area for the Common Stingray (Dasyatis pastinaca) in Greece. Stingrays, like many marine species, have specific habitat requirements during their juvenile phase. They typically prefer shallow, sheltered areas with abundant food and low predation pressure, often favoring seabeds composed of mixed sediments, including sand and rocks. These areas provide not only sustenance but also refuge, which is vital for their survival. The Impact of Habitat Changes on Juvenile Stingrays The floods in Pelion dramatically altered the seafloor composition at Theotokos beach, transforming a significant portion of the seafloor from a rocky to a predominantly sandy substrate. This change can significantly impact juvenile stingrays for several reasons:
The Need for Continued Research and Conservation
To ensure the survival of the Common Stingray and other marine species in Pelion, it is essential to continue studying these habitat changes and their impacts on local wildlife. Conservation efforts may need to include habitat restoration or protection measures, such as creating artificial reefs to replace lost rocky substrates, or enforcing stricter fishing regulations to protect vulnerable juvenile populations. The resilience of nature is remarkable, as evidenced by the survival of these juvenile stingrays, but it is not infallible. Active management and conservation efforts will be key to ensuring that Pelion’s marine ecosystems can fully recover and continue to support diverse and thriving wildlife populations. On July 20th, 2024, a team of the project participants embarked on a significant wildlife recovery survey at the picturesque Radakia beach, located in the southeast region of Pelion, Greece. This survey was part of a larger initiative, the Wildlife Recovery Survey: After the September 2023 Floods in Pelion, aiming to assess and document the impact of the catastrophic floods on the local fauna. Survey Location: Radakia Beach Sea Cave Radakia beach is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring stunning sea caves that provide a unique habitat for various species, including bats. These caves, carved by the relentless waves of the Aegean Sea, offer a sanctuary for chiropteran species, making them an ideal location for this survey. In Greek Mythology, Radakia is known for the cave of Thetis. Bats in Focus: Miniopterus schreibersii and Rhinolophus euryale During the survey, the team recorded two primary species of bats inhabiting the sea cave: Miniopterus schreibersii and Rhinolophus euryale. Miniopterus schreibersii, commonly known as Schreiber's bat, was found to be the predominant species in the cave. These bats are characterized by their long wings and swift, agile flight, which enable them to navigate the narrow and twisting passages of the cave with ease. They are a key species in the region, contributing to the ecological balance by controlling insect populations. Alongside Schreiber's bats, Rhinolophus euryale, also known as the Mediterranean horseshoe bat, was observed. This species is distinguishable by its unique horseshoe-shaped noseleaf, which aids in its sophisticated echolocation abilities. Rhinolophus euryale is particularly sensitive to environmental changes, making its presence a critical indicator of the cave's ecological health post-floods. Impact of the September 2023 Floods The September 2023 floods were a devastating event for the Pelion region, causing widespread habitat destruction and significantly impacting local wildlife. This survey aimed to understand the extent of recovery and adaptation among the bat populations. Initial findings suggest that, while there was none disruption within the sea cave, but, in the contrary, the benthic system outside the caves and near the beach was completely altered and destroyed. Importance of the Survey The data collected from this survey is invaluable for conservation efforts. By monitoring the recovery of bat populations, researchers can gain insights into the broader ecological recovery of the region. Bats play a crucial role in their ecosystems as pollinators and pest controllers, and their health directly reflects the health of their environment. Future Steps Ongoing monitoring and protection of these bat populations are essential. The Wildlife Recovery Survey will continue to assess the long-term impacts of the floods and implement conservation strategies to support the local wildlife. Public awareness and community involvement will also be key components in ensuring the sustainability of these efforts. In conclusion, the survey at Radakia beach’s sea cave not only highlights the resilience of nature but also underscores the importance of continued conservation efforts. The recorded presence of Miniopterus schreibersii and Rhinolophus euryale serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the gradual yet promising recovery of Pelion’s wildlife post-floods. |
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