News

In Santa Teresa Gallura we presented the results of the OndaVita – Il Viaggio delle Balene, promoted by Cooperativa La Beddula in collaboration with the Capo Testa - Punta Falcone Marine Protected Area.

The project findings were presented by Michela Congiu, marine biologist and researcher at MEDSEA; Laura Pintore, ethologist and marine megafauna expert at MEDSEA; Pieraugusto Panzalis, OndaVita Expedition Team Leader; and Alessandra Aielli, OndaVita Expedition Project Manager.

Led by a team of experts and researchers, including members of MEDSEA, LIPU Sardegna, and the University of Milano-Bicocca, the expedition took place last October between the coasts of Sardinia and Corsica. The journey covered more than 300 nautical miles aboard a low-impact environmental catamaran.

The project, which spans three years, aims to build an integrated dataset on cetaceans, seabirds, and environmental DNA of the Mediterranean monk seal through the use of advanced scientific technologies and tools. Alongside research activities, the initiative also promotes public awareness and fosters a stronger culture of marine conservation.

Below are some of the key findings from the expedition:

• 68 hours of integrated monitoring combining visual observation and acoustic listening;
• 52 recordings showing intense biological activity;
• 18 acoustic detections of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus);
• several sightings of bottlenose dolphins and striped dolphins between Sardinia and Corsica;
• monk seal environmental DNA detections, with 3 positive samples collected between La Maddalena, southwest Corsica, and Cap Corse;
• sightings of various seabird species (including rare ones), confirming the high productivity of the area and a healthy trophic structure.

The area between Sardinia and Corsica continues to prove crucial for conservation. Ongoing monitoring is essential to assess ecosystem health and protect the many species that inhabit these waters.

The expedition data will be shared with scientific partners and institutions to produce scientific publications and outreach materials, identify biodiversity hotspots and at-risk areas, and guide future conservation strategies.

This marks only the first stage of a three-year project that will continue in the coming years with new expeditions and research activities aimed at better understanding and protecting the Mediterranean Sea.