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Aquatic IAS in the Kızılırmak Delta Protected Area: Monitoring Progress and Impact of IASON+ Project

The IASON+ Project continues its dedicated efforts to track aquatic invasive alien species (IAS) within the Kızılırmak Delta Protected Area. Building upon the foundational data from the original IASON Project, this latest phase focuses on high-resolution mapping and predictive modeling to better understand how these species are spreading. Following intensive field studies conducted during the Spring and Fall of 2025, the project team successfully monitored a total of 21 aquatic invasive species. This monitoring is crucial for: (1) Spatial Mapping: Identifying "hotspots" where invasive species are most prevalent; and (2) Ecosystem Modeling: Predicting future distribution patterns based on environmental changes.

Data collection isn't limited to the aquatic ecosystem alone. In order to complement the biological findings, a comprehensive questionnaire was administered to experts and local stakeholders. This social data will help our experts evaluate the impact of these invasive species on the delta’s ecosystem services and the livelihoods of the local communities.


23 February 2026