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
The IASON+ Project is conducting two distinct surveys. Your insights are vital for developing effective management strategies for the Kızılırmak Delta Protected Area
09 February 2026
The IASON+ project workshop and partner meeting were held in KTU on January 28-30, 2026
02 February 2026
At the end of 2025,
05 January 2026
On December 11, 2025, our academicians visited Hami Yıldırım Primary School to provide marine science education.
29 December 2025
Prof. Dr. Fatma TELLİ KARAKOÇ at the Great Black Sea Forum Panel on December 12 2025
15 December 2025
Department of Marine Science and Technology Engineering 2025 External Stakeholder Meeting was held on December 3rd 2025
08 December 2025