We are delighted to invite you to the final workshop of the MESOPHOS project, an initiative dedicated to exploring the mesophotic zone—one of Cyprus’s least studied yet ecologically critical marine ecosystems.

The project, coordinated by Marine and Environmental Research (MER) Lab, has focused on the waters off Dekeleia and Akrotiri and is funded by the UK Government through the Darwin Plus programme (Ref. DPL00075). It is implemented in partnership with the Blue Marine Foundation (BMF), and the support of the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research (DFMR) and the Sovereign Base Areas Administration.

Read more about our project here: https://merresearch.com/portfolio-item/exploring-the-mesophotic-zone-of-cyprus-uk-overseas-territories-mesophos-2024-ongoing/

During the workshop we will present:

• Key scientific findings from our fieldwork
• Exclusive photo- and videography from previously unexplored depths, including species recorded in Cyprus for the first time

• The ecological importance of these habitats and the pressures they face
• Proposed management and protection measures
• The research methodology and monitoring protocol, available for use by other scientists and managers

Your presence would be a great honour, and your insights are vital for the effective protection and

sustainable management of these areas.

Date & Time Thursday, 26 June 2025: 09:30 – 11:00

Location Akrotiri Environmental Education Centre (AEEC)

Please confirm your attendance by the 24th of June 2025 by completing the short registration form: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/UrXU2YcHgp

Alternatively, you may reply directly to pkleitou@merresearch.com or call +357 96598310.

Should you require any further information, feel free to contact us.

We look forward to welcoming you at the workshop.