Bearded fireWORM invaSiOn: UnderwaTer monitoring, biodiversity and social impacts, PotentiaL indUstrial application and mitigation Strategies
ProjectThe primary objective of this project is to evaluate the impacts of the native invader, H. carunculata, on biodiversity and communities. Specifically, WORMSOUT PLUS aims to:
i) Investigate the abundance and spread of fireworms across the Mediterranean basin and Macaronesia region to understand the drivers of their invasiveness in targeted areas (Italy, Tunisia, Türkiye, Slovenia, Spain, France); ii) Examine the bio-ecology of the species to assess its ecological impact on biodiversity and ecosystems; iii) Analyse the socio-economic effects of the species on human activities, such as fishing, diving, and tourism; iv) Test potential valorisation strategies for the species’ biomass; v) Develop an
integrated management framework that combines scientific insights with local, regional, and international policy efforts to curb further spread. This comprehensive information is essential for predicting and mitigating H. carunculata potential impacts on biodiversity and will supply management strategies and conservation initiatives to policymakers.
i) Investigate the abundance and spread of fireworms across the Mediterranean basin and Macaronesia region to understand the drivers of their invasiveness in targeted areas (Italy, Tunisia, Türkiye, Slovenia, Spain, France); ii) Examine the bio-ecology of the species to assess its ecological impact on biodiversity and ecosystems; iii) Analyse the socio-economic effects of the species on human activities, such as fishing, diving, and tourism; iv) Test potential valorisation strategies for the species’ biomass; v) Develop an
integrated management framework that combines scientific insights with local, regional, and international policy efforts to curb further spread. This comprehensive information is essential for predicting and mitigating H. carunculata potential impacts on biodiversity and will supply management strategies and conservation initiatives to policymakers.