Marine biodiversity observations at Liri (Greece) | August 21, 2026

© Chris Taklis - Dasyatis pastinaca

​On August 21, 2026, marine biodiversity observations were carried out at Liri in South-east Pelion, Greece.

The observations documented a range of marine organisms, including coastal fishes, a ray, crustaceans, jellyfish and comb jellies. Particularly notable during the day were two separate observations of Monachus monachus (Mediterranean Monk Seal), highlighting the ecological importance of the wider Liri coastal area.

Marine mammals

• Monachus monachus (Mediterranean Monk Seal)

Three separate Mediterranean Monk Seal observations were documented at Liri on August 21. 

The presence of Monachus monachus is particularly important because the species depends on relatively undisturbed coastal habitats for resting and reproduction. Observations from Liri therefore add to the continuing documentation of monk seal presence along this part of South-east Pelion.

Fish and rays

• Belone belone (Garfish)
• Chromis chromis (Mediterranean Damselfish)
• Dasyatis pastinaca (Common Stingray)
• Parablennius sanguinolentus (Rusty Blenny)

Jellyfish and comb jellies

• Cotylorhiza tuberculata (Fried Egg Jellyfish)
• Leucothea multicornis (Warty Comb Jelly)

Crustaceans

• Palaemon sp. (Glass Shrimp)

Ecological importance of Liri.

The August 21 observations demonstrate the diversity of marine life that can be encountered within the Liri coastal area, from small benthic fishes and crustaceans to rays, gelatinous organisms and large marine mammals.

The simultaneous documentation of Dasyatis pastinaca and Monachus monachus is particularly relevant to ongoing biodiversity monitoring in the area. Both records contribute to a broader understanding of how different groups of marine wildlife use the coastal habitats around Liri.

Repeated observations from the same coastline can help establish patterns of species presence and seasonal occurrence while providing a stronger baseline for future conservation and monitoring work.
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The records from August 21 therefore contribute another important snapshot of marine biodiversity at Liri and strengthen the wider documentation of coastal wildlife in South-east Pelion.