The GEMA project is an initiative that aims to detect, characterise and protect the presence of the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) in the Alboran Sea. This species is listed as endangered in Spain and has traditionally been considered absent from the western Mediterranean. However, systematic observations carried out between 2011 and 2023 have confirmed their regular presence in the waters of the northern Alboran Sea, which reinforces the urgency of studying their distribution, abundance and main threats, especially their interaction with artisanal fisheries. The appearance of this species in an area where, until recently, its existence was not recognized poses new scientific and management challenges, to which the project seeks to respond through an integrated, interdisciplinary and collaborative strategy.

GEMA is articulated around a novel methodological approach that combines visual and acoustic observation tools, molecular techniques, passive monitoring and spatial analysis of fishing effort, all integrated with intense communication and collaboration with the fishing sector and society.

The project will be executed by the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO-CSIC) through the leadership of the Marine Megafauna group (MegaMAR) of the Oceanographic Center of Malaga and will have the collaboration of staff from the Oceanographic Center of Vigo and Murcia. In addition to the MegaMAR group, specialized in cetacean ecology and conservation, the Underwater Acoustics group, an expert in passive monitoring and evaluation of underwater noise, and the Ecosystems and Fisheries Resources of the Andalusian Sea group, a benchmark in the analysis of artisanal fishing effort, will also participate.

Acts as a collaborating entity: Fuengirola Fishermen’s Guild.