Expanded safeguarding of species diversity: Corals and sponges now listed as protected entities
France has taken a significant stride in marine conservation with the recent publication of a decree aimed at preserving the exceptional marine biodiversity of the region. The decree, published on July 8 in the Official Journal, protects a wide range of marine invertebrate species, including corals, sponges, and mollusks.
The decree is not limited to corals but extends to other marine invertebrate species, recognizing their vital role in maintaining the health and balance of marine ecosystems. Agnès Pannier-Runacher, Minister of Ecological Transition and Biodiversity, commented on the decree, stating it as a concrete step towards better understanding and preserving marine biodiversity.
The newly protected species, including corals, are under threat from factors like marine heatwaves. These extreme weather events can cause mass mortalities of marine species, including corals. The decree prohibits the destruction, collection, and trade of these protected species, aiming to provide them with much-needed protection.
While the decree directly mentions specific species such as the yellow tree coral, the bear sponge, the diadem sea urchin, and the Charonia lampas, the list of newly protected species extends to 36 marine invertebrates, bringing the total to 43.
However, it's worth noting that recent information about these newly protected marine invertebrate species in France is scarce. Despite this, France's commitment to biodiversity conservation aligns with international targets like the COP15 agreement, aiming to conserve at least 30% of marine and coastal areas by 2030. Such protected areas often include habitats for corals and other marine invertebrates, thus providing indirect protection through ecosystem conservation measures.
Protecting marine invertebrates such as corals is crucial because they form the backbone of marine ecosystems, offering habitat, food, and breeding grounds for numerous species. France’s approach to marine conservation, especially through expanding Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and adhering to international biodiversity commitments, reflects recognition of the need to maintain ecosystem functions and services that these invertebrates provide.
The decree also allows for the possession and sale of specimens regularly acquired before its entry into force, such as in aquariums or museums. This provision ensures that established collections can continue to educate and inspire the public about the importance of marine biodiversity conservation.
In conclusion, France continues to uphold its marine biodiversity through protected areas and international conservation commitments, indirectly benefiting newly protected marine invertebrates including corals. Specific information on newly listed species in 2025 may require consultation of specialized national biodiversity reports or databases for more detailed species-level updates.
The government's decree on marine conservation extends protection to 36 additional marine invertebrate species, bringing the total protected to 43, thereby contributing to the health and balance of marine ecosystems. This action aligns with France's commitment to international targets like the COP15 agreement, which aims to conserve at least 30% of marine and coastal areas by 2030, reflecting a recognition of the crucial role environmental-science plays in addressing climate-change and preserving health-and-wellness.
