Plemmirio
The Plemmirio marine protected area: a natural treasure in Sicily
The Plemmirio marine protected area is a biodiversity oasis that stretches along the eastern coast of Syracuse, on the extreme tip of the Maddalena Peninsula. With a surface area of 2,429 hectares of protected sea, Plemmirio was established in 2004 as a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Interest.
Territory
The Plemmirio coast extends for 14.35 km and reaches the extreme point of the Murro di Porco cape, bathed by the Gulf of Noto. The territory is of great relevance from a botanical and zoological point of view, but also from a historical point of view. In fact, the area was a crossroads for the passage of ships and boats from Carthaginians, Roman Civilization and Greeks. In the area's seabed, there are several amphora hills and relics from various eras, including those of the Second World War. In 2017, the wreckage of a Vickers Wellington English bomber from World War II was discovered.
Fauna
Within the area, we find several species characteristic of the Mediterranean, such as Thunnus thynnus, Dentex dentex, Seriola dumerili, Delphinidae, Selachimorpha and Physeter macrocephalus and Echinoidea. In the intertidal area, interesting worm reefs can be observed, biostructures similar to small coral reefs.
Criticisms
Despite the protection of the law, the Plemmirio marine protected area is not without some issues.
The ''querelle'' over the establishment of the reserve and the issue of the tourist village
In recent years, a controversy arose due to the project of building a tourist village within the protected area on Punta della Mola, also known as "Pillirina." The initiative sparked several protests organized by the local community. The issue can only be considered fully resolved if a terrestrial reserve is also established, which would block any new settlements.
Poaching
Another problem that the Plemmirio marine protected area faces is illegal fishing. Despite the protection of the law, the phenomenon of poaching of fish and sea urchins is still present in the protected area, especially due to its proximity to the city.
In summary, the Plemmirio marine protected area is a valuable natural treasure that deserves to be preserved. The territory and the different species that live within it must be protected, but any form of abuse or violation of the law that could damage this delicate ecosystem must also be prevented.
