Common Stingray (Dasyatis pastinaca): First Recorded and Studied Nursery Area in Greece - A Comprehensive Field Research Report
This field research report documents the first recorded and systematically studied nursery area of the common stingray (Dasyatis pastinaca) in Liri Beach. Based on continuous observations from 2018 to 2025, the study confirms the consistent annual presence of neonates and juveniles in shallow sandy habitats, with a clear seasonal pattern beginning in early July.
Using non-invasive methods, including underwater surveys, video documentation, and citizen science data, the research provides new insights into habitat use, behaviour, and depth–abundance relationships. The findings highlight the ecological importance of coastal nursery areas and underline the need for targeted conservation measures, even for species not currently classified as threatened.
This work contributes a critical baseline for elasmobranch research in Greek waters and supports future management and conservation planning in the region.
