Patella ferruginea nell'AMP del Sinis: caratterizzazione dell'habitat e cause della sua rarefazione.

In this study, carried out in the Penisola del Sinis-Isola di Mal di Ventre (W-Sardinia) Marine Protected Area, a population of the giant limpet Patella ferruginea and the associated midlittoral assemblage were examined. A total of 60 species were identified and P. ferruginea showed the lowest mean density ever reported (0.02 indlm). The results demonstrated a highly endangered population of P. ferruginea and human pressure had a major negative effect on its occurrence. We suggest the adoption of protection measures, including enhancement of local surveillance, to avoid the disappearance of the local population.