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General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean

Research Programme
Red coral

Red coral (Corallium rubrum) is an emblematic species of the Mediterranean Sea, long valued and harvested in the region for millennia. Over the past two decades, landings of this species across the Mediterranean have declined and, in some areas, its shallow populations were found nearly depleted.

In response, the GFCM launched in 2019 a dedicated research programme on red coral to address important knowledge gaps on the status of the species and improve the management of red coral fisheries in the region.

Coverage

Focus countries
Algeria, Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Morocco, Tunisia

Period
2020–2023

Objectives

The main objective of the research programme was to support the GFCM, through the provision of the best available scientific and technical advice, in improving the management of red coral fisheries and in developing a dedicated catch certification scheme, with a view to ensuring sustainability at the environmental, social and economic levels. The programme also aimed to consolidate a network of experts from research institutions and administrations to address all aspects related to the biology and ecology of red coral, as well as the status of red coral populations and fisheries in the Mediterranean.

Activities

The research programme was structured around five specific goals, each corresponding to a dedicated action:

  • Action 1. Data collection
    Investigate harvested populations of red coral by means of onboard observers, deep-sea diving and remotely operated vehicle surveys, and provide precautionary advice on the status of red coral populations
  • Action 2. Traceability
    Compile and review information on existing traceability mechanisms in Mediterranean countries and provide recommendations to strengthen and harmonize these mechanisms through the implementation of a pilot project on the traceability of raw red coral colonies collected in the GFCM area of application
  • Action 3. Genetics
    Conduct laboratory genetic analyses on samples of live red coral colonies and expand their scope to cover ex situ laboratory analyses of harvested populations of red coral
  • Action 4. Stock assessment
    Develop suitable stock assessment models for red coral to support management and conservation measures
  • Action 5. Socioeconomics
    Conduct a pilot project involving a detailed analysis of the socioeconomic aspects of Mediterranean red coral fisheries

Partners

Publications
Publications
Red coral in the Mediterranean Sea - Outcomes of the GFCM Research programme
2026

Global Report on the Biology, Fishery and Trade of Precious Corals
Publications
Global Report on the Biology, Fishery and Trade of Precious Corals
2019