Marine Educative Area "Generation 8" : Non-indigenous and invasive species

On Tuesday, November 25th, the AMPN team visited the Institution François d’Assise – Nicolas Barré to meet with the CM2 class in charge of the MEA this year.

The goal of the visit was to introduce the students to the connection between climate warming, the central theme of their school year, and the arrival of new non-indigenous (exotic) species.

The session began with a theoretical presentation to help them understand that the Mediterranean Sea is gradually warming, which facilitates the arrival of non-indigenous species, especially from the Red Sea. Some of these organisms can cause serious ecological or economic consequences; in such cases, they are considered invasive species.

The students then put their knowledge into practice during a fun workshop. Working in small groups, they received fish silhouettes to identify using the non-indigenous species guide created by the Ramoge Agreement. This booklet is usually used to raise awareness among sea users (fishermen, boaters, divers, etc.), encouraging them to act as sentinels and report the presence of these newcomers.

The students understood well the stakes and the importance of an early response to prevent invasions. They then proposed many solutions to limit any proliferation and preserve the AME.

Program supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and the Government of Monaco.

Photo credit : AMPN