The NGO Green Home, with the support of the Public Enterprise for Coastal Zone Management, has initiated the monitoring of the species Pinna nobilis in the Stari Ulcinj Nature Park.

The goal of this monitoring is to collect data on the presence of the species Pinna nobilis over a period of one year, in order to determine its presence and condition based on the collected data, and to undertake activities for the adequate protection of this significant species. The obtained results can also serve as a basis for initiating a revision of the species’ status.

Pinna nobilis is listed on the IUCN Red List as a critically endangered species and is protected in Montenegro by the Nature Protection Law, considering the decision to designate the Stari Ulcinj Nature Park as a protected area. It is also protected under the Natura 2000 network, which is part of European legislation.

This species is crucial for the health of marine ecosystems as it filters large amounts of water, thereby contributing to water quality and reducing pollution. It also creates habitats for many other organisms, including algae, fish, crabs, and other shellfish. However, although previous research confirmed the presence of this species in the sandy habitats of the Stari Ulcinj Nature Park, all individuals have died, likely due to a disease caused by the parasite Haplosporidium pinnae.

Due to the endangered status of this species, the project’s goal is to collect relevant data on its condition and presence annually to obtain results that could initiate the process of revising its status.

Funds for the activities were provided by the Public Enterprise for Coastal Zone Management through the MedFund association.