We support the Pipefish project to recover this species in the Balearic Sea

Photo: Margot Bosch Altimiras, on loan for conservation purposes - MARE

The Palma Aquarium Foundation will rescue accidentally fished examples and develop a reproduction programme to introduce new individuals into their natural habitat.  

Pipefish, close relatives of seahorses, are a little-known species. Their camouflage and bone structure make them unique, but the scarcity of data on their distribution and population status makes them vulnerable. In the Mediterranean, between 11 and 13 species of seahorses and pipefish have been identified, of which between 5 and 7 inhabit the Balearic Sea. Many of them are at risk due to accidental fishing and habitat degradation. Furthermore, it is estimated that only 1% of their offspring survive in their natural environment.  

The Pipefish project seeks to recover accidentally captured specimens and develop a reproduction programme in a controlled artificial environment at Palma Aquarium. The hatchlings obtained will be cared for until they reach an optimum size and juvenile maturity and then introduced into their natural habitat to reinforce existing populations.  

This initiative is a new step in contributing to the recovery of the shallow bays and their habitats. Working to mitigate pressures on these bays is essential, as the reinforcement of pipefish populations only makes sense if releases are carried out in an environment suitable for their survival.   

In addition to its direct conservation impact, the project will focus on research and outreach to increase knowledge about pipefish and raise public awareness of the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.   

The Pipefish project is a collaboration between the Marilles Foundation and Palma Aquarium Foundation, with the support of the TUI Care Foundation.