The project INVASIONS (INVestigAting non-indigenous Species in hotspot areas of the IONian Sea) is a cutting-edge marine research initiative funded by the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (HFRI) under the 3rd Call to Support Faculty Members and Researchers (Scientific Area: SA. 8 – Environment and Energy).
- Project Duration: 42 months (18/11/2025 – 17/05/2029)
- Host Institution: Department of Environment, Ionian University (Greece)
- Principal Investigator (PI): Dr. Vasilis Gerovasileiou
Overall Goal
The overarching ambition of INVASIONS is to develop and optimise a standardised, integrated framework for the early detection, monitoring, and risk assessment of marine non-indigenous species (NIS) specifically targeting ports and marinas of the East Ionian Sea.
The Project in Brief
Ports and marinas act as primary gateways and hotspots for marine biological invasions due to intense shipping, yachting, and maritime transport. INVASIONS addresses this challenge by combining:
- Rigorous Field Surveys: Rapid Assessment Surveys (RAS) to capture motile and sessile biodiversity.
- Innovative Fouling Collectors: Specialized bio-collectors designed to mimic diverse microhabitats (PVC panels for sessile organisms, PVC mesh for vagile fauna, and 3D-printed cubes for cryptic species).
- Advanced Molecular Tools: Applying state-of-the-art DNA and eDNA metabarcoding to complement traditional morphology.
By integrating historical data with new field evidence, the project will build a FAIR-compliant database, perform comprehensive risk assessments, and deliver cost-efficient, transferable monitoring guidelines for environmental managers and policymakers.
Cooperation
The project is implemented by a highly specialized international research team consisting of the Ionian University (Host) in close cooperation with:
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR) – Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture (IMBBC)
- University of Pavia
- LifeWatch ERIC
