This past Saturday, April 24, the theoretical session of the Campus Natura program was held, organized by La Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera, in the Cala de Sant Francesc in Blanes with the help of researchers from the Center for Advanced Studies of Blanes (CEAB).
During the session we delved into the practical study of plants and marine animals biodiversity of the Cala de Sant Francesc and met the main benthic coastal communities in situ, analyzing their characteristics and the ecological status of the area sampled.
Young people were able to understand the importance of conserving marine biodiversity
The day consisted of two activities. The first focused on the study of plant and marine animal biodiversity in Cala de Sant Francesc. This study was conducted through the practice of sampling methods to quantify biodiversity and assess the conservation status of different communities. A sample collection was also carried out and environmental and situational data were taken.
The second activity consisted of analyzing the samples collected throughout the morning. The young people were able to separate and classify the different species of algae present in the samples and were able to carry out a qualitative study of the biodiversity of the area. At the end of the study, an assessment was made based on the predominant species of the ecological status of the sampled area.
What is the Campus Natura?
It is a program organized by the Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera that stimulates the talent and promotes the scientific vocations of 30 young students in the 1st and 2nd year of high school with a special interest in research in the field of biodiversity conservation and nature. It is an opportunity for students to get in touch with fieldwork and learn more about the different techniques for the study and conservation of terrestrial and marine fauna and flora by experts in this field.
The program consists of 8 theoretical and practical sessions on Saturday or weekend, which take place during the school year between February and May 2021. Most of the sessions take place in the natural spaces of the Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera: La Pedrera (Casa Milà), Muntanya d’Alinyà, MónNatura Pirineus, MónNatura Delta, Montserrat-Coll de Can Maçana and Món Sant Benet. These sessions address issues related to biodiversity and the conservation of the environment and nature.
