Capo Zafferano Seabed (ITA020052)
Site type : SCI Special Area of Conservation
Code : ITA020052- Hectares : 2514
Description:
The SCI contains a vast meadow of Posidonia oceanica. The meadow extends to a depth of approximately 30-32 meters in the northernmost portion (Capo Zafferano), while the southernmost reaches approximately 20 meters. Other types of meadows are found: the most common are those on mattes, but those growing directly on rock are also present. Despite massive human pressure, especially in the summer, which sees the population increase significantly, including in recreational boating (anchoring), the meadow still displays remarkable resilience and regeneration capabilities. The coralligenous vegetation present is of rock face type, displaying very interesting characteristics. The most striking feature of this biocoenosis is undoubtedly the presence of veritable forests of cnidaria, such as Eunicella cavolinii, Paramuricea clavata, Antipathella subpinnata, and Savalia savaglia. The wall population is also very rich, with an abundance of Madreporaria (Leptopsammia pruvoti and Parazoanthus axinellae), Porifera (Spirastrella cunctatrix, Crambe crambe, Axinella cannabina), Bryozoans and encrusting calcareous algae, such as Mesophyllum expansum and Peyssonnelia spp.
Presence of oceanic Posidonia meadows and well-structured and representative coralligenous habitats of the southern Tyrrhenian coast.
Source: Ministry of the Environment Natura 2000 form
Ministerial data: Natura 2000 Form
Card insertion: Ignazio Caloggero
Photo: web
Informational contributions : Ignazio Caloggero, Sicily Region