Line of action:

Knowledge generation and management

Status:

En ejecución

Execution date:

2023

End date:

2026

Project web page:

https://www.biodiversa.eu/2023/04/19/sponbiodiv/ https://sponbiodiv.org/

SponBIODIV will establish basic knowledge on diversity and distribution and provide tools to improve the management and conservation of sponges in the Atlantic and Mediterranean at the gene, species and habitat levels. The project is based on the establishment of a trans-European and pan-Atlantic network of research organizations that, in collaboration with key stakeholders, will support evidence-based policies for the management, conservation and restoration of marine biodiversity, from coastal to mesophotic and deep sea areas.

This project intends to carry out the following actions:

• Examine patterns and identify biodiversity hotspots and phylodiversity of sponge species and habitats at various spatial scales;
• Identify ecological/genetic corridors and refuge areas between species and regions, combining biophysical models and population genomic approaches;
• Develop new methodologies for broader biodiversity detection and monitoring of sponge habitats, taking advantage of the potential of sponges as natural samplers (nsDNA);
• Assess the current conservation status of species and habitats according to major international processes (e.g., IUCN Red List and OSPAR);
• Engage relevant stakeholders for co-production and joint delivery of data and practical tools to inform them about management, conservation and restoration efforts.

SponBIODIV will promote dialogue with key stakeholders through the establishment of an advisory board, participate in science, policy and society forums, and organize capacity building activities.

In addition, the project will provide data, knowledge and tools on biodiversity, connectivity and resilience of sponge species and habitats in support of the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 and the global efforts of the Convention on Biological Diversity, the UN Agenda 2030, the UN Decade of Ocean Sciences for Sustainable Development and the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030).