Saving the Heart of the Mediterranean: José Rafael García March Receives the Award for Fan Mussel Conservation Efforts  

José Rafael García March, a pioneer in marine biology and one of the researchers at the Catholic University of Valencia/EU-CONEXUS, has been awarded the prestigious Golden Trident. It is an international prize issued by the Academy of Underwater Sciences and Techniques since 1960. In addition, The Golden Trident is also widely regarded as the “Nobel” of underwater activities. 

This recognition highlights his tireless work in the conservation of the fan mussel, a critically endangered species that inhabits the Mediterranean. With a career dedicated to marine research and scientific outreach, García March has been a key figure in the study of the fan mussel. This mollusc is not only essential for the ecological balance of the Mediterranean Sea; it has also become a crucial indicator of the health of regional marine ecosystems. 

We met with the researcher to better understand the significance of this recognition and learn more about his work at the research centre. 

1. What does receiving the Golden Trident award, known as the “Nobel” of underwater activities, mean to you? How has this recognition influenced your perspective on your work? 

For me, it is a great honour and a source of pride to receive this recognition. However, I must emphasise that it was not awarded to me alone but to the entire Institute for Environmental and Marine Science Research (IMEDMAR) team and the university. It has been a collective effort, and I am very pleased with the achievements we are demonstrating at UCV. 

2. You have been working on the conservation of the fan mussel (Pinna nobilis) for decades now. What are some of the biggest challenges in recovering this critically endangered species? 

The biggest obstacle in the recovery of the fan mussel was the emergence of the protozoan Haplosporidium pinnae, first detected in 2016. This parasite triggered a wave of widespread mortality among fan mussels, marking a turning point in conservation efforts. 

In terms of the preservation research itself, funding has always been a challenge, especially in the early years. Resources were limited, and this scarcity forced us to innovate and seek alternative ways to secure funding. It was very costly, and, ironically, it was only after the fan mussel mortality crisis reached critical levels that significant investments began to appear. 

The problem, however, reaches beyond the fan mussel. This species serves as a biomonitor of the Mediterranean health at a regional level; what happens to it reflects what is happening to other species that receive less attention. Its situation is a warning sign that points to anthropogenic impact, climate change, and the fragility of marine ecosystems. It serves as an urgent reminder that we must act before these same issues affect other species, many of which are vital for ecological balance and society. 

3. What would the disappearance of the fan mussel species mean? 

The disappearance of the fan mussel would have severe ecological, economic, and cultural consequences. To begin with, its extinction would impact marine biodiversity by disrupting ecosystems and reducing water quality. Economically, it would negatively affect sustainable tourism, as the fan mussel is a key attraction in Mediterranean marine reserves and underwater parks. Finally, it would also have cultural consequences, signifying a loss of a historical symbol of Mediterranean coastal communities. 

4. What do you think is lacking in conservation policies to protect species like the fan mussel? 

There is a continuous lack of funding. For example, with a larger budget, it would be possible to establish a research centre dedicated exclusively to the reproduction, cultivation, and study of diseases affecting the fan mussel. Having a team of specialised scientists and adequate resources would allow us to develop more effective strategies to protect and recover this critically endangered species. 

5. You have completed 2,000 dives and filmed documentaries in various seas. This has been possible thanks to a close collaboration at an international level. What is the importance of an international network in research? 

It is absolutely essential. In the case of the fan mussel, its presence throughout the Mediterranean Sea makes collaboration among all countries in the region indispensable for coordinating recovery and monitoring policies. Although we still face challenges, such as building connections with North African countries, progress is also being made in this area. 

Collaborative work is highly important; in this case, setting aside egos and prioritising results means saving the species. The goal is not to accumulate publications or advance individual careers, but to achieve the conservation of the fan mussel together. For this reason, we have established international networks with countries like France, Italy, and Greece, sharing progress on complex issues like reproduction. The aim here is not for one to succeed, but for all of us to succeed collectively. 

6. What advice would you give to young researchers pursuing a career in marine biology and conservation? 

My advice is simple: if they are passionate about marine conservation, they should not give up. They should focus on what they want to achieve, identify the problems they wish to solve, and work with determination to reach their goals. Having clear objectives is crucial. Therefore, setting short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals will allow them to progress steadily and stay on track, even in the face of challenges. Perseverance and clarity in their purpose will be their best tools for success in this field.