From 11–16 June 2026, researchers, academic experts, and scientific divers from across the Black Sea Basin converged in Alexandroupoli, Greece, for an intensive week of collaborative learning and field execution under the #WatchReefFish initiative.

Hosted to fulfill the core objectives of Activity 1.2 (On-field Methodology Standardization Training), the event united international partners to master, harmonize, and standardize non-invasive reef fish biodiversity monitoring techniques critical for long-term ecological assessment.

Bridging Theory and Practical Field Application

The six-day intensive program was meticulously structured to balance rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on marine operations, ensuring seamless knowledge transfer and data compatibility across all participating nations.

• Theoretical Foundations: Sessions kicked off with comprehensive modules covering equipment setup, camera calibration, species identification protocols, fish size and abundance estimation, data recording, and advanced analysis techniques.

• Collaborative Leadership: Leveraging regional expertise, Karadeniz Technical University – Marine Science Faculty (KTU-MSF, Türkiye) and Democritus University of Thrace (DUTh, Greece) jointly steered the curriculum. KTU-MSF led technical preparations supplying Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) systems, environmental DNA (eDNA) samplers, and training modules while DUTh coordinated essential infrastructural and facility resources.

• On-Field & In-Water Operations: Over three dynamic days of fieldwork, participants deployed state-of-the-art non-invasive tools under real sea conditions:

  • UVC Surveys: Divers executed structured Underwater Visual Census protocols, performing two distinct underwater transects (25 m x 5 m and 25 m x 1 m) to assess reef fish assemblages accurately.

  • BRUV Deployments: Teams practiced complete deployment, calibration, and retrieval workflows for Baited Remote Underwater Video systems.

  • eDNA Sampling: Researchers trained in cutting-edge water sampling methodologies to complement visual assessments with molecular data.