The sustainable initiatives being developed at the Larnaka Marine Protected Area (MPA) continued today with an event for the dual actions of submerging amphorae at the Elpida wreck and a presentation of culinary dishes incorporating lionfish. The initiatives are the result of a close collaboration between Larnaka Tourism Board (LTB), the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, the Technical and Vocational School of Education and Training of Larnaka, and the region’s dive centres. 

The first action saw the submerging of 200 amphorae at the Elpida wreck – which was sunk in 2019 at a depth of 29 metres. Following Elpida, the LEF1 vessel was sunk in 2020, whilst last year amphorae were submerged near a natural reef by Elpida. 

The demarcation of the MPA was also recently completed and will assist in more effective policing of the area and the placement of boat mooring points. Further initiatives are planned within the next year, including the submerging of a new vessel – the ‘Lambousa II’, along with the installation of artificial reef structures in the area. 

In an age where overfishing and other factors threaten marine environments, the installation of environmentally friendly structures increases the sanctuaries available for marine organisms; a significant measure as Larnaka’s sandy seabed does not naturally offer suitable substrate shelters for marine life. This action also contributes to the enrichment of diving tourism, which is one of LTB’s ongoing areas of enhancement.  

It is important to note that the amphorae submerged are environmentally friendly as they do not contain any glazes, paints or toxic materials that could negatively affect marine life. This effort was possible thanks to the support of the Deputy Ministry of Tourism (DMT), as well as the diving schools: Viking Divers; Zenobia Divers; Undersea World Scuba Diving, and Hippocampus Larnaca Sub Aqua Club. 

Parallel to the amphorae submerging, impressive and creative culinary dishes incorporating lionfish were presented, which were prepared by the Technical and Vocational School of Education and Training οf Larnaka, while a booklet of original recipes prepared by the Hotel and Catering Professions branch of the school was distributed. The aim of this initiative is to raise awareness about the invasion of lionfish in Cyprus’ seawaters, and to propose solutions that will turn this challenge into an opportunity through the use of lionfish in gastronomy. 

In his address, LTB Chairman, Mr Dinos Lefkaritis, pointed out that this event is part of actions that contribute to the sustainable development of the Larnaka MPA, through which the evolution of the reef’s biodiversity is supported; the region’s diving product is strengthened, and culinary options are enriched both in the field of education and within hotels generally.  

The Director of the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, Ms Marina Argyrou, explained that lionfish is an invasive species that has spread into the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal and is unfortunately seemingly here to stay. Despite its poisonous spines (which should be removed with care), it is a highly palatable species and the fishing, purchasing and eating of the fish can help control its population. Ms Argyrou also mentioned that the wreck and the new artificial reef structures that are expected to be built soon will create interconnectivity of the structures and enrich the areas that are points of gathering, reproduction and development of fish and other marine organisms. 

Inspector for Secondary Technical and Vocational Education (Hotel and Catering Department) of the Ministry of Education of Cyprus, Mr Michalis Tsiarlistos, stressed that it is important to promote this new product across the island, thus supporting the fishermen who will distribute the lionfish to the local market, and by extension, to consumers, who will be able to add a product with many nutritional benefits to their diets. 

Short addresses were also given by Larnaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President Mr Stavros Stavrou; Voroklini Community Council President Mr Neophytos Fakontis; the Vice President of the Cyprus Dive Center Association Mr Nicos Nicolaou; the Vice-President of the Cyprus Federation of Underwater Activities Mr George Minas, and Assistant Director and Coordinator of the Hotel and Catering Department of the Technical and Vocational School of Education and Training of Larnaka, Chef George Kyprianou. 

25 Οctober 2023