Citizen science
Citizen science
Get involved in our science
At CCMAR, we believe that science is a collective mission. Through citizen science, we invite the public to become active partners in marine research, transforming everyday observations into valuable scientific knowledge.
By collaborating with us in data collection — whether identifying species, reporting marine animals, or monitoring coastal biodiversity — you significantly expand the scope and scale of our studies. This powerful collaboration allows us to respond more effectively to emerging challenges affecting our oceans.
Join a project
You can participate in various initiatives, contributing directly to science from your region. Our projects allow you to help explore local biodiversity or report events observed on the beach. Discover how your curiosity can make a difference.
Help us find species that are not native to the Algarve
The NEMA project - New Marine Species in the Algarve - calls on the community to actively participate in the identification of non-native marine species in the Algarve region. The knowledge and identification of these species is crucial to protecting the balance of local marine ecosystems. Join us in the effort to increase our understanding of the Algarve's marine species and contribute to the conservation of marine life.
If you spot any species you've never seen before, don't hesitate to fill in the form below, which will take about 2 minutes.
Alert us to animal sightings on the coast
The Algarve Stranding Network (RAAlg) allows us to record and study strandings of dead cetaceans (dolphins and whales), sea turtles and seabirds that occur along the Algarve coast. Through the collaboration of the community and a technical team available 24/7, we gather crucial information to understand the causes and patterns of these strandings. If you find a stranded animal, help us collect valuable data through our online form or by contacting our emergency line.
Emergency line: +351 968 688 233
Record large accumulations of seaweed on the beach
The abundant presence of algae, whether in the sea or on sandy beaches, can indicate disturbances in marine ecosystems and in our beach experience. Collaborate with our researchers in detecting these occurrences so that we can monitor what is happening.
If you see an excessive amount of algae, please share this information by filling in the form.
Share your observations of marine forests
Our scientific team, made up of experts and citizen volunteers from all over the world, has recorded more than 6,000 entries and 400 species! Thanks to the contributions of more than 1,200 citizen scientists, the "Marine Forests" project aims to create a global database of benthic species, including algae, seagrasses and animal forests.
Join the effort by adding records via iNaturalist - just provide a photo, date and location, no need to identify the species! Your contribution will be accessible worldwide, helping us to conserve marine forests.
Explore the biodiversity of the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park with us
Since 2007, CCMAR, together with ISPA and ICNF, has been implementing the BIOMARES Programme. Through this programme, we have developed activities to support the implementation of the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park in Arrábida. One of our objectives is to collect, analyse and integrate information on the incredible biodiversity found in the rich waters of this marine protected area. And to do this, we rely on the help of citizens: anyone can register their observations of marine life on the BioDiversity4All platform, where there are already more than 7,000 observations. Join the more than 500 citizens who have already contributed to safeguarding Arrábida's marine ecosystems!
Engaje with us
We welcome everyone to take part in our Citizen Science projects, which include regular activities and other initiatives developed by our Ocean Education Unit, together with our scientific community at CCMAR. Following our mission of promoting science and fostering ocean literacy, we are open to collaborating with the school community and other societal partners in new ideas and projects.
Feel free to reach out to us. We're here to assist you.
