GUITAR-HERO 2. Habitat, distribution and mobility of GUITARra fish and other coastal Elasmobranchs 2.
Pleamar program
The common guitarfish (Rhinobatos rhinobatos) and other species of coastal elasmobranchs are among one of the most threatened groups in the Mediterranean. Their biological characteristics (slow growth, late maturity, few offspring) make them particularly vulnerable to fishing pressure and habitat degradation.
In this context, the coastline of the Region of Murcia has a key role in its conservation. Recently, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has recognized this area as ISRA (Important Shark and Ray Area) “Murcia Eastern Coast”, identifying it as an area of special importance for sharks and rays in the Mediterranean.
The GUITAR-HERO 2 project arises as a continuation of the GUITAR-HERO project, with the aim of deepening scientific knowledge about the common guitarfish and other coastal elasmobranchs present in this area. To do this, the initiative combines different research techniques, including visual censuses, acoustic telemetry, analysis of sighting data and community science initiatives.
As a main novelty, GUITAR-HERO 2 will expand the study area into mesophotic habitats (20–100 m deep). To this end, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) equipped with video and stereocamera systems will be used, as well as the use of acoustic receivers at greater depths, which will allow the presence, distribution and behaviour of guitarfish to be studied throughout their range of habitat.
In addition to scientific work, the project maintains a strong component of collaboration with fishermen, divers and citizens, promoting the collection of responsible sightings and releases and awareness of the importance of shark and ray conservation in the Mediterranean.
The results obtained will contribute to improving knowledge about the ecology and population dynamics of common guitarfish and other coastal elasmobranchs, providing key information for their management and conservation.
The following entities act as collaborating entities: Fishermen’s Guild of San Pedro del Pinatar, Fishermen’s Guild of Cartagena, Association of Diving Centers of the Region of Murcia, Federation of Underwater Activities of the Region of Murcia, Costa Cálida Nautical Station and Turismo Marinero S. L.
Line of action:
Marine ecosystemsStatus:
En ejecuciónLocation
Region of MurciaResearch line
Axis 2. Protection of the Marine EnvironmentExecution date:
2026End date:
2027Project web page:
https://www.programapleamar.es/proyectos/guitar-hero-2-habitat-distribucion-y-movilidad-de-peces-guitarra-y-otros-elasmobranquiosThe general objective of the GUITAR-HERO 2 project is to deepen scientific and social knowledge about the biology, ecology and fishery of the common guitarfish (Rhinobatos rhinobatos) and other coastal elasmobranchs of the Iberian southeast (Murcia), giving continuity to the work developed in the GUITAR-HERO project. It also aims to expand the study of these species to deeper habitats, improve social participation in research and continue to lay the foundations for their effective management and conservation.
More specifically, this project seeks to:
OE1: To complete the knowledge on the distribution, abundance, seasonality and habitat use of guitarfish and other coastal elasmobranchs in the study area, expanding the research area towards mesophotic habitats (20–100 m depth) through a multidisciplinary strategy that includes censuses with ROV, acoustic telemetry and sighting data.
OE2: To complete the study of the movement patterns of the common guitarfish, by maintaining the network of acoustic receivers deployed during the GUITAR-HERO project and collecting telemetry data throughout the useful life of the installed acoustic markings.
OE3: Maintain and expand the community science network developed during the GUITAR-HERO project, involving people and companies from various sectors (fishing, diving and the general public) with the aim of collecting, analysing and interpreting this citizen science data for scientific use.
OE4: To facilitate access by researchers and public administrations to the new knowledge and resources generated, in order to improve the transfer of knowledge at the science-manager interface and to contribute to the development of management and conservation measures based on scientific evidence.
OE5: Continue to promote information, awareness and participation of society in the conservation of the species studied and, by extension, marine biodiversity, encouraging the valorisation of marine natural heritage at a local level and in the context of the Mediterranean.
GUITAR-HERO 2. Habitat, distribution and mobility of GUITARra fish and other coastal Elasmobranchs 2.
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