Positive Updates from Pina: Rising Hope in Marmara
Title: “Hope for the Marmara Sea: The Pina Restoration Project Shows Promising Results”
The Sea of Marmara experienced a devastating mucilage outbreak in 2021, posing a severe threat to the ecosystem and marine life. However, there is now new hope for the recovery of the sea, thanks to the “Hope Pina” project initiated by scientist Mustafa Sarı in collaboration with Borusan Holding. The project aims to restore the Marmara Sea ecosystem by focusing on a particular type of mussel called pina, which filters seawater.
In the face of extinction due to the mucilage crisis, pinas have proven to be crucial for the rejuvenation of the Marmara Sea. To protect themselves, pinas migrated into the Sea of Marmara, where they also encountered the mucilage. Despite this challenge, the pinas have shown great resilience and are playing a vital role in the recovery process.
Under the “Hope Pina” project, extensive research has been conducted with the participation of public and private sectors, municipalities, and non-governmental organizations. The project team, led by Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sarı, has identified 80 sub-regions along the 150-kilometer coastline of the Marmara Sea. They have conducted over 200 dives, covering an area of 30 thousand square meters. The results of the research have been highly encouraging, as it was discovered that pina populations have started to thrive and spread throughout the Marmara Sea. Prof. Dr. Sarı emphasized that the density of the pina population in the area is well above the global average.
In a recent event organized by Bandırma 17 Eylül University, representatives from cities bordering the Marmara Sea, as well as government officials, non-governmental organizations, and scientists, gathered to develop a conservation strategy for the “Hope Pina” project. The participants discussed the importance of protecting pinas and outlined measures and initiatives to ensure their preservation.
Pinas are unique to the Mediterranean region and have a remarkable lifespan of 45-50 years, with a shell length of up to 1.2 meters. What makes these mussels even more extraordinary is their ability to filter 6 liters of water per hour, acting as natural water treatment devices.
The successful progress of the “Hope Pina” project brings renewed hope for the restoration of the Marmara Sea. With ongoing efforts and strategic planning, it is anticipated that the pina population will continue to thrive, contributing to the overall rebirth of the ecosystem. The collaboration between scientists, organizations, and authorities highlights the importance of collective action in protecting and preserving our precious marine environments.
