On April 7–8, 2026, representatives of the State Organization “Institute of Market and Economic & Ecological Research of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine” (Olha Karpenko and Olha Golikova) took part in an international event held within the framework of the SturNet project in Constanța and Murighiol (Romania).
On April 7, the international awareness-raising and networking workshop “Building a Transnational Network for Sturgeon Conservation in the Black Sea Basin” took place at the Constanța Casino. The event was dedicated to strengthening transboundary cooperation in the field of sturgeon conservation in the Black Sea basin.
During the first session, an overview of the SturNet project, its objectives, main activities, and digital tools was presented. Representatives of the Institute delivered a presentation on the challenges and prospects of sturgeon conservation in the Black Sea region, emphasizing the need to enhance interstate coordination, develop monitoring systems, and integrate scientific approaches into natural resource management policies.
During the subsequent sessions, participants discussed the results of genetic research, the use of digital tools for monitoring, and the impact of climate change on biodiversity, particularly in the Danube Delta. Considerable attention was given to the exchange of best practices, combating illegal sturgeon fishing, and supporting local fishing communities.
On April 8, a field visit took place in Murighiol, Tulcea County, which included a stakeholder meeting, particularly with local fishers. Participants discussed practical aspects of bycatch prevention, mechanisms for reporting accidental catches, and ways to improve communication between scientists, authorities, and local communities.
During the field visit, participants had the opportunity to observe local fishing practices, the characteristics of the water area connected to the Danube branches, as well as zones important for sturgeon migration during the spring spawning period.
Participation in the event contributed to strengthening international partnerships, exchanging experience, and developing joint solutions for sturgeon conservation in the Black Sea basin. The results obtained will be used for further development of scientific research and practical activities within the SturNet BSB00172 project.
