Amvrakikos Gulf
Restoring lagoons, estuaries, and seagrass habitats in northwestern Greece to protect biodiversity, improve water quality, and support sustainable livelihoods.
The Amvrakikos Gulf is Greece’s largest wetland and part of the Mediterranean’s most important coastal ecosystems. Covering 40,000 hectares of semi-enclosed waters, it supports over 300 bird species, 11 threatened sharks and rays, sea turtles, Dalmatian pelicans, and the Mediterranean’s densest population of Critically Endangered bottlenose dolphins. It also harbours one of the last surviving populations of the fan mussel.
Despite this richness, pollution, illegal and overfishing, and climate-driven pressures are degrading habitats and reducing biodiversity. This project aims to reverse these trends by combining science, conservation, and local stewardship to create a healthier, more resilient Gulf.
Blue Marine Foundation
Amvrakikos Gulf, Northwestern Greece
Greece
Ongoing since 2025
40,000 ha
Lagoons, marshes, estuaries, seagrass beds
Bottlenose dolphin, Pinna nobilis, Dalmatian pelican
Why this place matters
Amvrakikos Gulf hosts the Mediterranean’s densest population of bottlenose dolphins.
The Amvrakikos Gulf’s lagoons and seagrass beds provide nursery grounds for fish, feeding and nesting areas for seabirds, and habitat for dolphins, turtles, and elasmobranchs. Its fan mussel population represents one of the species’ last strongholds in the Mediterranean.
Yet decades of degradation are threatening these values. Fertiliser and antibiotic runoff from nearby farms has created oxygen-poor zones, illegal and unsustainable fishing has reduced fish stocks, and marine heatwaves are stressing ecosystems further. These pressures affect both biodiversity and the local communities who depend on the Gulf for fishing and tourism.
Despite this decline, the Gulf retains high ecological value and resilience. Existing research collaborations and strong local ties provide a foundation for recovery.
Action on the ground
The project is reducing pressures and restoring habitats to rebuild the Gulf’s ecological integrity. Planned actions include:
Rebuilding nesting sites for seabirds is a key focus for the project.
The project will restore one of the last surviving populations of fan mussel (Pinna nobilis).
Developing a sustainable fisheries framework in the lagoons will reduce pressures on marine life.
The project plans to reduce agricultural pollution through improved irrigation and fertiliser use.
The project will remove abandoned fishing gear and marine waste.
A key focus will be to engage communities in stewardship and alternative livelihoods.
Visit the Amvrakikos Gulf website
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