Türkiye launches innovative marine projects to combat mucilage in Marmara Sea

Türkiye’s Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change has launched two groundbreaking ecological restoration projects—Mar-Cayir and Mar-Pina—aimed at restoring the natural balance of the Marmara Sea. By harnessing the natural abilities of seagrass beds and endemic giant mussels, the projects seek to reduce the factors triggering mucilage formation.

According to information obtained by Anadolu Agency from ministry officials, these projects mark the latest stage in Türkiye’s ongoing environmental mobilization against mucilage in the Marmara Sea.

The General Directorate for the Protection of Natural Assets, in collaboration with Bandirma Onyedi Eylul University, is leading both initiatives, which focus on natural, biology-based solutions to improve marine health.

1,300 kilometers of seabed scanned for ecological treasures

As part of the project, a 1,300-kilometer stretch of coastline within the Marmara Sea and the Princes’ Islands Special Environmental Protection Zone was surveyed using underwater imaging and visual counting methods.

The survey revealed that 52% of the scanned coastal areas are covered with four different species of seagrass. These underwater meadows are capable of producing between 4 to 20 liters of oxygen per hectare through photosynthesis—playing a key role in improving water quality and curbing the spread of mucilage.

Seagrass meadows act as underwater oxygen factories

Seagrasses not only generate oxygen but also serve as natural barriers that protect against coastal erosion. More importantly, they act as carbon sinks, helping Türkiye meet its climate goals by absorbing atmospheric carbon.

The ministry aims to increase the density of these critical ecosystems under protection programs, supporting biodiversity and water purification processes across the Marmara basin.

World’s last healthy population of giant mussels found in Marmara

The MAR-PINA project focuses on Pinna nobilis, an endemic giant mussel species native to the Mediterranean. Often referred to as “natural water filters,” these mussels can clean up to 6 liters of seawater per hour.

Project researchers discovered that the Marmara Sea hosts the last known healthy population of this endangered species, which has disappeared from many parts of the Mediterranean due to disease and environmental stress.

Mussels offer natural filtration system for polluted seas

By increasing the population of Pinna nobilis, the Mar-Pina project aims to boost the sea’s self-cleaning ability, reducing pollutants that fuel mucilage outbreaks. These mussels not only purify water but also contribute to balancing marine ecosystems naturally—without chemical or mechanical interventions.