Italia-Croatia

Deliverable 2.1.1 Mapping and Monitoring Protocol for the Blue Crab

This document outlines a common way to track the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) and study its complex life cycle (how it grows and moves). By using standard fishing methods and new tools like LED lights, the project aims to stop the crab from spreading too far.

The final goal is to turn this invasive species from a problem into a way for local coastal towns to make money sustainably.

Deliverable 2.2.1 Selective traps for the Blue Crab

The objective of this document is to provide detailed documentation on the development and procurement of innovative selective traps for the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus), designed by testing distinct prototypes varying in materials, design, and technology. The report provides the essential tools for the subsequent field validation and operational implementation.

The design phase demonstrated that no single model is optimal for all environmental conditions. Therefore, a versatile kit of nine prototypes was created, each optimised for specific scenarios (calm waters, deep waters, or environments requiring high structural resistance).

The traps have been produced and distributed to the partners (LP1, PP2, PP4, PP5, PP6, PP7) based on the environmental analysis of their respective pilot areas. This strategy ensures that operational testing is conducted using the equipment best suited to local conditions, thereby maximising the accuracy and relevance of the collected data.
 

Deliverable 2.2.2 Report on trapping best practices

The trapping activities carried out have led to the development of standardised practices that can be adapted to coastal and transitional ecosystems. By monitoring the spatial and temporal distribution of the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) at the pilot sites, seasonal patterns and areas of highest abundance were identified, generating comparable data for long-term management decisions.

In addition to monitoring, the interventions reduced the local density of the blue crab, mitigating the ecological impact on benthic communities and commercial species. This required an assessment of the efficiency and selectivity of the traps to minimise by-catch.

The results confirm that standardised trapping is an effective and sustainable tool for both monitoring and controlling the species. As trap performance varies significantly between sites, integrating trapping data with environmental monitoring has proved crucial for enhancing adaptive management and refining long-term control strategies.
 

Deliverable 2.4.1 Commercial plan for Blue Crab exploitation

This document's primary objective is to overcome the current economic unsustainability associated with the commercialization of blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) in the Mediterranean by defining a circular and efficient model capable of ensuring stable and positive economic returns for coastal communities.

The document also provides an assessment of the long-term economic viability of blue crab exploitation in the Adriatic Sea. A further objective is to clarify the regulatory and institutional framework, offering an accessible overview of the legal conditions for fishing, processing, and sales, in order to reduce uncertainty among stakeholders. Finally, the deliverable includes the development of a regional communications and branding strategy to transform blue crab from a perceived ecological threat to a valued resource for the regional fishing economy.
 

Deliverable 2.5.1 Report on recycling process

The BlueDiversity project is a mission to protect sea life in the Adriatic Sea, also by focusing on a specific problem: old nylon fishing nets. Instead of letting these nets pollute the ocean, the project wants to collect and recycle them.
Here is a breakdown of how the project works:

Following the Rules
The project looked at laws in Italy and its neighboring countries. In Italy, new rules require that a certain amount of waste must be collected and that the companies who make these nets are responsible for managing them once they are worn out.

Finding the Best Way to Recycle
The report compared two main ways to recycle nylon: mechanical recycling: This is the best option for now because it is cheaper and easier to do; chemical recycling: This process is more expensive, but it creates a "purer" plastic that is almost like new.

Setting Up Shop at the Docks
To make this work, the project designed a plan to build storage centers right at the ports. These centers would: give fishermen a place to drop off old nets; use high-tech scanners (spectroscopy) to inspect the nets and make sure they are the right material; organize the waste so it’s ready to be shipped to recycling plants.

Why This Matters
By turning old nets into new products—like clothing, car parts, or furniture—the project helps the environment and creates new business opportunities. This shift toward a "blue economy" means we can protect our oceans while still growing our industries.
 

Deliverable 2.5.2 Gillnets circular supply-chain database

Based on the activities carried out in the Italian and Croatian pilot areas of the BlueDiversity project, all Project Partners have entered into the database the data collected on the actors involved in the potential recycling chain of discarded fishing nets, identified during the surveys conducted in the selected ports. The file is organized into two sections: a list of the main actors/stakeholders involved in the potential recovery chain (public bodies, port authorities, specialized companies, environmental associations, fishermen’s associations); and a list of projects and best practices identified during the survey activities in the pilot areas.

Deliverable 2.6.1 Eco-compatible tools and equipment for aquaculture and mariculture

This document analyzes several eco-sustainable alternatives to plastic. It studies materials like cotton, cellulose, hemp, and biopolymers to make nets and containers that help protect marine life and support greener aquaculture. 

Through technical tests conducted in pilot areas, the study examines the mechanical performance, biodegradability, and economic sustainability of each resource compared to traditional methods. 

The goal is to give practical advice to businesses, helping reduce microplastic pollution in the Adriatic Sea without lowering production efficiency.

Deliverable 2.6.2 Report on costs and benefit of a eco-friendly mussel farming transition

This technical report explores replacing traditional plastic materials, like polypropylene fishing nets, with eco-sustainable alternatives made from natural fibers or biodegradable biopolymers. It uses market research and real-world tests to see how well these new solutions work and whether they are cost-effective. 

The main aim is to protect marine life by reducing microplastic pollution, while supporting a circular economy in the seafood industry. The report also acts as a practical guide for professionals, offering real solutions to produce seafood while protecting coastal ecosystems.
 

Deliverable 3.1.1 Training modules for Professionals and Students

Deliverable 3.1.1 presents the work of WP3 and details the training materials developed by the consortium for the study programs dedicated to professionals and students. These materials are essential for effectively generating local impact through the implementation and delivery of specific training. This training not only promotes the project's objectives but also positively disseminates knowledge about biodiversity, ecosystems, alien species, and their relationship with local activities, thus ensuring the emergence of new possibilities and opportunities.

Report on Blue Crabs Traps

This document was developed by Blu Marine Service (PP6) after conducting a market analysis of the best traps available for the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus, Rathbun, 1896). All the equipment listed below have been tested in different environments and judged based on: capture capacity, ease of use and storage, resistance, versatility of use in different environments. The tests have been conducted from June to December 2024 in the pilot area PP6.