Falanges Project
The Falanges project, promoted by Águas do Algarve, counts on the partnership of Zoomarine and Quercus
Its aim is to implement ex-situ breeding programmes for three species of fish – at different levels of threat in the wild, due to the worsening drought situation in the region and the consequent reduction in watercourses – and to enhance and preserve the river ecosystems in the Algarve.
The three fish species included in this project are the Southwestern Arched-mouth Nase, the Arade Chub and the Andalusian Barbel.
In order to create assurance populations, one of the phases of the project includes the collection of some specimens to integrate reproduction efforts in a controlled environment. The aim will be to subsequently reintroduce these animals into the wild, as soon as the conditions for their survival are guaranteed, thus repopulating the region’s river ecosystems.
This project also includes environmental awareness activities in schools in the region and among our visitors, as well as the monitoring and conservation of the ecosystems of these species.
Zoomarine participates in the Falanges project through the breeding and subsequent reintroduction of the Andalusian Barbel specie.
To raise environmental awareness about the dangers these species face, our visitors can observe some of these species at the Oceanus Aquarium.
