Science is essential for the effective management of the sea, ensuring the conservation of its ecosystems and the sustainability of its resources. The scientific information obtained not only increases knowledge of marine habitats and species but also provides a solid basis for developing management plans for marine protected areas.

The Spanish Institute of Oceanography has analysed the scientific information obtained from 10 Spanish marine areas that were declared Sites of Community Importance (SCI) and included in the Natura 2000 Network under the previous LIFE+ INDEMARES project ‘Inventory and designation of the Natura 2000 Network in marine areas of the Spanish State’.

We have published the following scientific reports, which will serve as a basis for elaborating the management plans for these 10 SCIs.