Purple Urchins

This project focuses on monitoring sea urchins in Malta, particularly in relation to their abundance, growth, and recovery in marine protected areas (MPAs). The research aims to investigate the impact of factors such as algae coverage, tourism, sea temperature, and habitat quality on sea urchin populations.

The project also explores the biology of sea urchins, their reproductive patterns, and growth rates. Methodology involves SCUBA surveys along transects, with potential for salinity and temperature measurements.

Future directions include genetic studies to determine population distribution and monitoring the survival and impact of hatchery-reared sea urchins on wild populations.