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The Monk Seal
INTRODUCTION
The Mediterranean Monk Seal, Monachus monachus, is a rare marine mammal which’s most important population is found in Greece. Its name derives from its appearance that resembles the hood of catholic monks. As the Monk Seal is a top predator, its existence is linked to the health of sea. Today, it is the No1 critically endangered sea mammal in Europe and one of the six most critically endangered species in the world. Protecting the Monk Seal means protecting the marine ecosystem. Extinction of the Monk Seal is the prelude of the marine ecosystem’s deterioration.
The largest population of the Mediterranean Monk Seal in the world lives and breeds in Greece. Comprising 90% of the species’ total European population, 200-250 individuals are swimming in the clear–blue waters of the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Another important remaining population, within European waters, is found at the Madeira island complex and consists of about 20 individuals. The “National Marine Park of Alonnissos Northern Sporades” and the Kimolos-Polyaigos island complex constitute the two most significant Monk Seal habitats in Greece.
Follows on page 2 Source: MOm 2006
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