The Mediterranean Sea is known for being a sea full of flora and fauna species that make it a jewel of biodiversity. Not only has it been crucial for the development of various cultures throughout history, but its ecosystem is home to a large number of species, many of which are endemic. In fact, it is the second largest inland sea on the planet, just behind the Caribbean. In this article we will delve into the mediterranean sea animals, highlighting their characteristics, their habitat and some curiosities that make them unique.
Characteristics of the Mediterranean Sea
The Mediterranean covers an area of 2,5 million square kilometres, representing just over 1% of the total surface area of the world's oceans. Despite its relatively small size compared to other oceans, it is home to extraordinary biodiversity. The average depth of the Mediterranean is 1.430 metres, although in some areas it can reach up to 5.267 metres in the Matapan Trench near Greece.
One of the most unique features of the Mediterranean is that it is connected to the Atlantic Ocean through the Strait of Gibraltar, allowing the entry of species from the Atlantic. It is also linked to the Black Sea through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits, and communicates with the Red Sea through the Suez Canal. The fact that it is a warm and salty sea favours the growth of various marine species.
The name Mediterranean comes from the Latin 'medi terraneum', meaning 'the centre of the earth'. It was named thus by the Romans, who considered it the epicentre of the known world in ancient times. This sea bathed some of the most important civilisations in history, such as the Greek, Roman and Egyptian. Historically, the sea has been known as “Mare Nostrum" by the Romans, being a key space for trade and communications.
Mediterranean sea animals
The Mediterranean is home to around 17.000 different marine species, making it a biodiversity hotspot. Among these species, molluscs and crustaceans make up 25,6%, while fish and other vertebrates only account for 4,1%. A notable feature is that around 20% of the species present in this sea are endemic, meaning they cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Some of the most emblematic species in these waters include the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), which is in danger of extinction, and the Posidonia oceanica, a marine plant essential to the Mediterranean ecosystem. This plant plays a crucial role in producing oxygen and protecting the coasts from erosion.
Another example of an iconic species is the striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), one of the most common species in these waters. These dolphins are known for their sociability and for appearing in groups that follow boats, especially between spring and summer, when they are most active.
The Mediterranean is also the habitat of migratory species such as the Red tuna (thunnus thynnus), one of the fastest and largest fish in the world, vital to the fishing industry. Unfortunately, due to overexploitation, this species has suffered a significant reduction in its population.
Invertebrate species of the Mediterranean Sea
An important part of the Mediterranean animals are the invertebrates, which constitute an essential part of its marine ecosystem. Among them, the crustaceans (such as shrimp, prawns and crayfish) and cephalopods (such as squid and octopus) are among the most notable, both for their commercial and ecological importance.
Cephalopods are not only large species among invertebrates, but they also stand out for their intelligence and problem-solving skills. One of the most common in the Mediterranean is the common octopus (Octopus vulgaris), famous for its ability to change color and adapt to its surroundings.
Other notable Mediterranean invertebrates include the echinoderms, such as sea urchins and starfish. These animals play key roles in controlling algae growth, helping to maintain the balance of the ecosystem. In addition, invertebrates, such as jellyfish and anemones, are also part of this complex ecosystem, contributing to the biodiversity of the sea.
Mediterranean sea fish
Fish are one of the most diverse groups in the Mediterranean. From pelagic species such as the bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus), one of the fastest and largest fish, to small species that live near the coast on rocky bottoms.
An example of a fish that is usually found near the coasts is the red mullet (Mullus surmuletus), known for its delicate meat and value in Mediterranean cuisine. It is also common to see rock fish such as common seabream (Diplodus sargus), which lives in shallow waters surrounded by rocks and algae.
Another emblematic species in these waters is the grouper (Epinephelus marginatus), which can reach large sizes and is highly prized in both commercial and recreational fishing. Groupers prefer rocky habitats with abundant hiding places and can live up to 50 years.
Impact of human activity in the Mediterranean
Despite the richness and diversity of species it hosts, the Mediterranean Sea faces several threats. Overfishing, pollution and the invasion of exotic species are negatively affecting its ecosystem.
Overfishing has led to the drastic reduction of many commercial species. sardines (Sardina pilchardus) and anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus) are two examples of species that have seen their populations decline due to intensive fishing. Governments have therefore implemented measures such as protected fishing zones and temporary bans to allow the species to recover.
The invasion of exotic species also represents a growing threat to the Mediterranean ecosystem. With the opening of the Suez Canal, many species in the Red Sea, known as exotic species, have become subject to the threat of invasion. lesepsian, have begun to colonize the Mediterranean. The puffer fish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), originally from the Red Sea, is a clear example of an invasive species that has drastically altered the balance of the local fauna.
Despite these problems, efforts to protect this sea are increasing. International organizations are working on measures that promote the sustainability and conservation of one of the most important ecosystems in the world.
The Mediterranean, with its rich history and biodiversity, remains one of the most beautiful and fascinating seas on the planet. Although it faces great challenges, efforts to protect it are moving forward, with the hope that its unique biodiversity will thrive for generations to come.