In the picturesque town of Nin, on April 3rd and 4th, 2025, the annual partners' meeting dedicated to the project for the protection of the noble pen shell (Pinna nobilis) in the Adriatic Sea was held. The event brought together over 50 experts and scientists from Croatia, Slovenia, Italy, and Spain, who jointly discussed the achievements so far and future steps in preserving this critically endangered species.

Intensive Working Meetings and Field Activities

The first day of the meeting was held at the House of Culture, where the participants analyzed the results of previous research, exchanged the latest findings, and defined strategies for further protection of the pen shell. Special emphasis was placed on the challenges faced by this species, including mass die-offs recorded in recent years.

On the second day, a field tour of the site where living pen shell specimens had previously been recorded was organized. Unfortunately, during the tour it was determined that those specimens had died in the meantime, further emphasizing the urgency of implementing effective protection measures.

Challenges in Preserving the Noble Pen Shell

The noble pen shell, one of the largest bivalves of the Mediterranean Sea, is facing serious threats that have led to a drastic reduction in its population. Mass die-offs, which began in 2016, are linked to the parasite Haplosporidium pinnae, as well as bacterial infections and environmental changes such as rising sea temperatures. Studies have shown that surviving specimens are often found in specific lagoon conditions, suggesting that certain environmental factors may play a key role in their survival. However, such habitats are rare and endangered, especially in the Croatian part of the Adriatic, where the existence of only a few living specimens has currently been confirmed.

The Role of the Public in Monitoring and Protection

The "Have You Seen It?" initiative remains a key tool in identifying surviving pen shell specimens. Citizens are encouraged to report sightings, thereby actively contributing to the efforts to preserve this species. The project partners emphasized the importance of involving the public, noting that such actions have increased awareness and interest in protecting the marine ecosystem.

Future Plans and Accommodation in Nin

The project "Preservation of the Noble Pen Shell in the Adriatic Sea" is coordinated by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition, with financial support from the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund. The activities are focused on monitoring surviving specimens, developing and implementing in-situ and ex-situ conservation measures, including the cultivation of pen shells in controlled conditions.

The meeting participants had the opportunity to enjoy the hospitality of Nin, known for its rich history and natural beauty. Accommodation in local hotels and private apartments provided them with a pleasant stay and further exploration of the cultural and natural landmarks of the area.

Despite the challenges, international cooperation, scientific research, and active citizen participation provide hope for the future of the noble pen shell. Each surviving specimen represents a valuable source of information, and through joint efforts, we can contribute to the preservation of this important species and the entire Adriatic ecosystem.