MollusCa Blu Project Boosts Cannolicchio Populations in Campania

The second year of the MollusCa Blu Campania project, led by Genenvet at the University of Naples Federico II in partnership with the Consorzio di Gestione della Pesca dei Molluschi Bivalvi (CO.GE.MO.) and co‑financed by the PN FEAMPA 2021‑2027 programme, confirms the success of experimental seabed ploughing that began in 2025. Monitoring along the Salerno coast shows cannolicchio (Ensis minor) densities up to three times higher than the previous year, signalling a notable recovery of coastal marine ecosystems.

Professor Vincenzo Peretti, the project’s scientific coordinator, highlighted that the data demonstrate how targeted, scientifically‑controlled interventions can restore habitats and support sustainable fisheries. The findings will also inform updates to the regional resource‑management plan, extending benefits beyond the target species to overall benthic biodiversity.