© Brian J. Skerry / National Geographic Stock / WWF

Did you know that the Corinth Gulf is a setting for the unique phenomenon of symbiosis between three different dolphin species? That the Hellenic Trench is the most important area for sperm whales in the Mediterranean? That the monk seal, Monachus monachus, is one of the rarest species on the planet?

All of the above highlight the Greek seas as a unique environment for the survival of these rare species, whose presence is critical to the marine ecosystem. However, according to the public opinion survey conducted during October 2010, in the context of “Thalassa” project’s implementation, the majority of Greek society ignores not only the importance but also the occurrence of these charismatic animals in our country. This lack of knowledge as well as the non friendly environmental attitude and behaviour have resulted in the grave situation marine mammals are nowadays facing. Most of these species are threatened with extinction, and the decline of their populations is more than alarming!

The "Thalassa" project aimed at reversing the current grave condition of the status of marine mammals, through a series of actions that will inform and raise awareness of all parts of Greek society in order to engage everyone in the effort to conserve the marine biodiversity living in the Greek seas.

Learn more at thalassa-project.gr