Seagrass meadows are among the Mediterranean's most valuable ecosystems, providing essential habitat for endangered seahorses, supporting marine biodiversity, improving water quality, protecting coastlines and storing carbon.
Yet, off the coast of Málaga, Posidonia oceanica has declined dramatically, with up to 60% of its meadows lost in just 15 years due to pollution, coastal development and invasive species.
The Malaga Province Environment Foundation (MPEF) is supporting Fundación Aula del Mar Mediterráneo (FAMM) in its pioneering Posidonia oceanica nursery project in Marbella. Through a 1-hectare marine nursery, scientists are developing and refining restoration techniques to support the long-term recovery of seagrass meadows along Málaga's coastline.
In the first six months of the project, the team has collected 900 naturally detached Posidonia oceanica cuttings, optimised their recovery in aquariums, and installed the first six restoration panels in the nursery, hosting a total of 228 plants.
Beyond its scientific role, the nursery is also being developed as a hub for education and public engagement, bringing together local communities and visitors to raise awareness of the importance of seagrass meadows and inspire support for the conservation of these vital Mediterranean ecosystems. Read more here.
Marbella Club also runs a specialised culture tank within its kids’ club, designed to replicate the seahorses’ natural habitat. The tank provides a space for studying seahorse ecology and behaviour, while also supporting breeding efforts away from the threats that are driving the species to extinction. These include extensive habitat loss and capture in trawler nets used in fishing.
The offspring are released back into the wild off the coast of Portugal, as part of an established reintroduction programme. Suitable areas have already been identified, giving the young seahorses the best possible chance of establishing thriving populations in their natural environment.
Discover our new seahorse print in Posidonia oceanica seagrass green and ocean blue, exclusively designed in collaboration with Marbella Club Hotel. The print has been created to help raise awareness and funds for MPEF's vital work protecting and restoring Malaga Province’s unique natural environment.
From restoring seagrass meadows to giving seahorses a safe place to thrive, these projects show how protecting marine life starts with understanding and restoring the ecosystems it depends on. We’re proud to support and shine a light on Marbella Club, MPEF and Conservation Collective.
