Monitoring lithophyllum colonies

Lithophyllum byssoides, known as Seashore lithophyllum, is a small encrusting red algae that lives on rocks in the surf zone. It is a protected species because it is highly threatened by pollution, particularly by hydrocarbons.

With its rigid appearance due to its calcareous skeleton, it forms colonies that, over time, can create structures several tens of centimeters in size, called Lithophyllum rims.

In Monaco, several colonies are located in the Larvotto Marine Protected Area. They are monitored annually by the AMPN and Dr. Alexis Pey from the Thalassa Marine Research & Environmental Awareness consulting firm to track their evolution and propose appropriate management measures.