Regeneration of urban marine biodiversity
MAR-VIU is a pioneering project focused on marine restoration, scientific monitoring, and citizen participation that transforms an urban space—the Port of Barcelona—into a real and measurable haven for marine life.
MAR-VIU aims to increase species diversity and population, create an effective and recognized conservation area, and integrate it into an interconnected network of urban nature micro-reserves.
Ecological diversity
Barcelona’s coastline is an environment with high ecological potential despite the inevitable transformation it has undergone, typical of any urban coastline. More than 700 marine species inhabit its waters. In the Forum Bathing Area alone, over 500 species have been identified. This space was artificially created and currently serves as a key area for the refuge, breeding, and reproduction of species.
This is possible thanks to the area’s unique characteristics. It is a semi-enclosed zone with a controlled connection to the open sea, allowing for the exchange of species and nutrients while maintaining stable conditions. The waters are calm, with low hydrodynamic energy, ideal for reproduction and the development of juveniles. As a relatively small enclave, it brings together species of commercial interest (octopus or cuttlefish) and ecological interest, including some protected species (seahorses).
Installation of structures
The project involves the installation of various types of structures that serve as shelters from predators and currents, especially during the breeding season.
These structures are made from natural materials and have no environmental impact. There are three types: structures with cavities, structures with natural ropes, and structures with branches and logs.
Monitoring
Continuous scientific monitoring of the area allows for the measurement of results and learning. MAR-VIU is a dynamic and ongoing process of active conservation. It pursues concrete results in an objective and scientific manner.
Objectives
The goal is not only to increase species diversity and promote reproduction. The effectiveness of each of the aforementioned structures is evaluated, and the scientific data generated is analyzed to enable more effective coastal management. MAR-VIU also seeks to involve the public in active conservation and environmental education, raising awareness and highlighting the underwater heritage of our urban coastline.
Participants
It is a collaborative, transparent and scientifically rigorous model that integrates multiple actors: FECDAS (diving), ICM-CSIC (science), Environmental Foundations and Active Citizens.
Concrete results
During the 2025 fiscal year, the following observations were made, among others: continued and increasing use of the structures as shelters, the recurring presence of seahorses, active cuttlefish reproduction, and a high abundance of juveniles and fry of the various species. All of this confirms a stable biological colonization of the installed structures.
With this, MAR-VIU demonstrates that urban marine regeneration is viable, that small actions generate a real impact, that scientific monitoring provides credibility and learning, and that the project is scalable and replicable.
MAR-VIU is a tangible example of environmental action with visible results.
