The Importance of Protecting Jellyfish for the Marine Ecosystem

Jellyfish, with their ethereal and mysterious beauty, are among the oldest marine creatures on the planet. Although they are often seen as a threat due to their painful stings, these fascinating creatures play a fundamental role in the marine ecosystem.

Why This Project Was Born

The idea for this project came from a personal experience of Bianca, during a day of mistral winds on the Island of Elba. The beach was full of jellyfish, specifically Pelagia noctiluca.

Tourists were trying to remove the jellyfish from the sea to swim, while locals, knowing the wind changes, knew that it would be enough to wait until the afternoon for the wind to carry them away.

This episode highlights the need to raise awareness about the importance of jellyfish and proper management practices.

The Ecological Importance of Jellyfish

Jellyfish occupy a central place in the marine food chain. They are prey for a variety of marine animals, including fish, sea turtles, and some birds. This makes them crucial for the survival of these species, thus contributing to the biodiversity of the oceans. Additionally, jellyfish prey on plankton and small fish, helping control the populations of these species and maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem.

When they die and decompose, jellyfish release essential nutrients into the water, feeding other marine organisms and promoting plankton growth. This nutrient recycling process is vital for the overall health of the oceans.

The Legal Situation in Italy

In Italy, the protection of jellyfish is enshrined in law. Killing them is an offense punishable by fines of up to 30,000 euros and the possibility of imprisonment for up to 18 months. This legislation aims to protect all forms of marine life, recognizing the importance of jellyfish in the ecosystem.

Jellyfish as Ecological Indicators

Jellyfish not only contribute to the marine ecosystem but also serve as ecological indicators. Variations in their populations can provide important clues about climate change and environmental impacts. For example, a significant increase in jellyfish can indicate a decline in predator fish populations due to overfishing or pollution. By studying jellyfish, scientists can gain valuable information about the health of the oceans and the effects of climate change.

The Role of Jellyfish in Sustainable Tourism

Jellyfish also attract the attention of tourists and researchers, contributing to sustainable tourism. Many marine biology enthusiasts and divers travel to areas where jellyfish are abundant to observe them in their natural habitat. This type of tourism can generate revenue for local communities and promote marine conservation.

WE RAD's Commitment and B Corp Certification

WE RAD, in its mission of sustainability, is committed to raising awareness through communication projects aimed at understanding and safeguarding biodiversity. WE RAD's B Corp certification reflects this commitment, as highlighted in the company's charter, which prioritizes investments in research and innovation to address environmental, social, and economic challenges. WE RAD is committed to generating a net benefit for people and the biosphere.

An Immersive Experience Combining 3D, Video Mapping, and Body Tracking

As a Communication Agency attentive to the environment and biodiversity, as well as to technologies and research and development, we decided to communicate and promote the protection of jellyfish with an immersive experience combining 3D, video mapping, and body tracking.

Matteo and Mattia designed a concept with Touch Designer to raise awareness on the topic of jellyfish, creating an installation that simulates the opposite of what happens in reality, where on this occasion it is humans who try to attract jellyfish rather than chase them away.

Using a Kinect, the person in front of the installation is recognized and, moving within an abyss full of 3D jellyfish, can interact with them, moving and manipulating the surrounding environment (without stings, of course).

Conclusion

Protecting jellyfish is not only a matter of legality but of ecological responsibility. Knowing and protecting these creatures helps maintain marine balance and ensure a sustainable future for all of us. The commitment of organizations like WE RAD in promoting sustainability and biodiversity is essential for the protection of our marine environment and for raising awareness about the importance of these fascinating creatures.

Source: Money.it