The Balearic Islands have Marine Protected Areas (PMS) with different degrees of protection. These spaces act as key ecological nodes: PNMT, Cabrera Archipelago, SCI Menorca Channel and the Marine Reserves of Llevant, Migjorn de Mallorca, Bahía de Palma, Illes del Toro i de les Malgrats and Sa Dragonera, which cover 55% of its inland waters. However, this protected area lacks functional connectivity and specific planning for each EMP.

The RECONECTA project confronts this challenge by proposing a central objective: to propose measures to transform PMTs including Marine Reserves of Fishing Interest (RMIP) into a network of ecologically connected reserves, capable of sustaining populations of commercial fish such as grouper, bream, dentex, rays, raor and amberjack.

For them, the project will focus on a series of actions.

Observation: Environmental DNA (eDNA) around the Island of Mallorca and Menorca Channel, exploration with remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) and recreational diving support to obtain biological and visual evidence.
Modelling: simulations of early stage dispersal (eggs, larvae and juveniles) of focal species using simulations (ROMS-Offline) to estimate connectivity (origin-destination matrices).
Network analysis: identification of priority nodes and corridors using graph theory (centralities and connection strength).
Co-design: workshops to translate results into applicable measures (e.g. buffer micro-stockpiles, dynamic closures, regulated diving).

Within the framework of RECONECTA, an interactive viewer/atlas will be created with corridors and nodes and filters by species and management recommendations will be established for buffer micro-reserves and prioritization of corridors. Proposals for lists will also be developed to be integrated into maritime planning and artisanal fisheries management plans.

Reserves function best as a network when flows of individuals connect areas of reproduction, growth, and utilization. Identifying nodes and corridors makes it possible to guide measures that are more likely to sustain populations and support the resilience of fisheries and recreational activities.

The following entities act as collaborating entities: Balearic Federation of Fishermen’s Guilds, Mallorcan Association of Responsible Recreational Maritime Fishing (AMPRR), Pollença Fishermen’s Association, Mahón Fishermen’s Guild and General Directorate of Fisheries (Government of the Balearic Islands).