Developing sampling protocols for biomonitoring contaminants in Mediterranean seabird

The present document is based on a period of close cooperation between Medmaravis and the Conservatoire du Littoral (CdL). In particular, the aim is presenting recommended and relatively simple sampling protocols to be applied in researches aimed at monitoring contaminants in the Mediterranean, using seabirds as bioindicators. The standardization of sampling methods is a crucial starting point in order to maximize the opportunity of comparing results obtained by different studies. This goal required a thorough study of the scientific literature regarding marine pollution and its relations with seabirds. About 300 papers and technical/scientific reports were collected, analyzed and entered in a database, presented at the 2 nd Symposium on the Conservation of Marine and Coastal Birds in the Mediterranean, held by UNEP RAC/SPA and Medmaravis in Hammamet (Tunisia) in February 2015. Then, several sampling protocols have been tested in the Central Mediterranean (Italy and Tunisia) during the breeding season of 2015 (9 sites, 3 seabird species). Sampling procedures suggested in this work, have been directly inspired by literature and previous documented experiences and adapted when necessary to the characteristics of the Mediterranean (target species, breeding phenology, selection of the breeding sites, etc.). Before giving the sampling protocols description, an introduction on the marine pollution and a brief review of the state of the art concerning research on contaminants in seabirds, especially in Mediterranean, is given.