The Mediterranean fan mussel (Pinna nobilis) has suffered near-total population collapse since 2016 due to disease caused by Haplosporidium pinnae, leading to its classification as Critically Endangered. The few surviving populations persist in vulnerable coastal lagoons, which are essential for the species’ survival and future recovery.

This project aims to prevent the extinction of Pinna nobilis by protecting remaining populations, improving habitat conditions, developing an international biosecurity programme, and enhancing captive breeding and disease treatment. Actions will be implemented across 32 Natura 2000 sites to conserve habitats, identify resistant individuals, and enable future reintroduction. The project will also raise public awareness and assess socioeconomic impacts, contributing to the long-term recovery of the species.

The main objective of the COLMED project is to promote the use of jellyfish as a new marine resource on the Spanish Mediterranean coasts, highlighting them as a groundbreaking source of collagen. To achieve this goal, the project is structured around three specific objectives outlined below:

1. Diversify the income sources of the artisanal fishing sector, thereby supporting the continuity of their livelihood.
2. Implement a jellyfish harvesting network to produce products through the application of technological processes.
3. Raise public awareness about jellyfish, their added value, and the marine environment.