ECOLEGACY MEDITERRANEAN
MARINE PROTECTED AREAS
Marine Protected Areas in Türkiye
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), as they are known globally, are most commonly designated in Türkiye under the status of 1st Degree Natural Protected Sites. Assessments indicate that this designation largely corresponds to IUCN Category II within international conservation classifications.
Existing Protected Areas and Limitations
Along Türkiye’s coasts, several protected areas exist, including Kaş–Kekova, Datça–Bozburun, Gökova, Fethiye–Göcek, Köyceğiz–Dalyan, and Foça. However, for a country with such an extensive and heavily utilized coastline, both the number and effectiveness of these areas remain insufficient. In many cases, these zones exist more as “paper parks” rather than areas with effective, on-the-ground protection.
Lack of Effective Protection and Ongoing Pressures
Currently, there are no fully effective marine protected areas in Türkiye where fishing is strictly controlled, pollution pressures are minimal, and tourism and coastal development are adequately regulated. Even in relatively well-known regions such as Kaş and Gökova, issues like illegal fishing, seagrass damage caused by anchoring, and land-based pollution persist.
Moreover, only approximately 2–4% of Türkiye’s marine areas are under protection. In contrast, international targets call for at least 30% of marine environments to be protected. This highlights the urgent need for genuinely effective Marine Protected Areas along Türkiye’s coasts—areas where fishing is regulated, anchoring impacts are managed, and pollution is minimized. Crucially, these areas must not only be designated but also supported by regular monitoring and strong governance mechanisms.
Protected Area Coverage and Recommendations for Bodrum
Based on this, and beyond the seagrass basin analyses identified within the scope of this report, we strongly recommend the urgent protection of the areas listed below, drawing on approximately 20 years of scientific research conducted along the Bodrum coasts (Osinga et al., 2010; Gökalp et al., 2019; Gökalp, 2021; Guide to Marine Life of Türkiye, İnkilap Publications, 2011).
According to satellite imagery, GIS analyses, habitat diversity studies, and underwater diving observations, several areas of the Bodrum Peninsula that host dense and healthy Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows and support rich marine ecosystems are strongly recommended to be designated as Marine Protected Areas.
Our Marine Protected Area (Marine Reserve) Proposals
Based on the mapping and ecological assessments conducted, six key Marine Protected Areas (Marine Reserves) are proposed around the Bodrum Peninsula to safeguard seagrass meadows and sensitive marine habitats.
NORTHERN BODRUM: Küdür Peninsula, Kiremit Island and Apostol Islands
Why Should It Be Protected?
Located at the northern tip of Bodrum, this area has been preserved for over 25 years through strong local efforts and has become a true wildlife refuge. The Küdür Peninsula, designated as a 1st Degree Natural Protected Site and a Mediterranean Monk Seal Conservation Area, is one of the rare places in Türkiye that has been genuinely protected.
Ecological Treasures and Species
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Ancient Seagrass Meadows:
Extending along the coastline, centuries-old barrier-type seagrass meadows (reef-forming Posidonia oceanica) help prevent coastal erosion and provide a unique habitat. These formations, rising from the seabed like natural barriers, are especially visible at Yalçın Sivrikaya Beach. -
Critical Species:
This area is one of the most important habitats and potential breeding grounds for critically endangered species such as the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), lizards, guitarfish, butterfly rays, and Fulya rays—cartilaginous species under severe threat. It also hosts seabirds and a rich diversity of fish populations. -
Shallows and Islands:
The surroundings of Karga Island, Çatal Island, and the Gemi Taşı reefs are covered with healthy seagrass beds that serve as resting areas for seals and nursery grounds for juvenile fish.
WESTERN BODRUM: Çatal Islands
Why Should It Be Protected?
The Çatal Islands complex (Çatalada, Yassıada, Tüllüce, Pırasa Island, etc.), located off the coast of Turgutreis, has remained relatively untouched by human impact due to its wave and current dynamics, making it a pristine marine haven. The straits and shallow areas between the islands, in particular, host exceptional levels of biodiversity.
Ecological Treasures and Species
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Unique Seagrass Meadows:
The areas surrounding the islands are covered with dense and healthy Posidonia oceanica meadows, extending in places down to depths of 30 meters. The area between Pırasa Island and Çatalada is particularly notable for its exceptionally dense and compact seagrass structure. -
Underwater Caves and Reefs:
The rocky formations of the islands—featuring caves and steep walls—provide ideal habitats for stony coral colonies, sponges, and tunicates. -
Historical and Natural Value:
Yassıada is designated as a 1st Degree Archaeological Site and contains underwater wrecks. Meanwhile, Topanada and Çavuş Island are frequently observed habitats for both seabirds and the Mediterranean monk seal.
Threats Identified:
The most significant threat is the potential impact of large-scale projects planned in Turgutreis—such as the Coast Guard breakwater and the seawater desalination plant—which may disrupt the region’s hydrodynamic structure, causing damage to seagrass meadows and nutrient cycles. In addition, sea cucumber harvesting during the winter months contributes to the degradation of the benthic ecosystem.
SOUTHERN BODRUM: Bitez Peninsula and Kargı & Köçek Islands
Why Should It Be Protected?
Located at the northern tip of Bodrum, this area has been preserved for over 25 years through strong local efforts and has become a true wildlife refuge. The Küdür Peninsula, designated as a 1st Degree Natural Protected Site and a Mediterranean Monk Seal Conservation Area, is one of the rare places in Türkiye that has been genuinely protected.
This region encompasses two complementary reserve proposals:
1. Bitez Peninsula Sensitive Area (Akvaryum Cove, Adaboğazı, Görecek Island)
Why Should It Be Protected?
Designated as a “Sensitive Area” in 2023, this site has managed to preserve its natural beauty despite its proximity to Bodrum. With its indented coastline and clear waters, it is one of the most important destinations for yacht tourism.
2. Akyarlar Peninsula, Kargı and Köçek Islands
Why Should It Be Protected?
The southern and western coasts of the Akyarlar Peninsula, together with Kargı and Köçek Islands, have largely remained free from major degradation due to their wave-exposed and high-current conditions, preserving their wild and relatively untouched character.
Threats Identified:
Particularly in Akvaryum Cove, the uncontrolled anchoring of more than 100 boats during the summer season causes significant damage to seagrass meadows, leaving visible scars on the seabed. Pollution and waste generated by boats are also major concerns. One of the most unfortunate developments in the area is the impact of coastal modifications—such as piers and platforms—by facilities like Kefaluka and Xanadu Island, which have harmed the natural structure of the coastline. Additionally, the installation of pier foundations directly onto seagrass beds as part of large-scale construction at Ali Hoca Cape highlights the severity of these threats.
EASTERN BODRUM: Karaada and Blue Cruise Bays
Why Should It Be Protected?
The Çatal Islands complex (Çatalada, Yassıada, Tüllüce, Pırasa Island, etc.), located off the coast of Turgutreis, has remained relatively untouched by human impact due to its wave and current dynamics, making it a pristine marine haven. The straits and shallow areas between the islands, in particular, host exceptional levels of biodiversity.
1. Karaada (Arkos)
Why Should It Be Protected?
As the largest island in Bodrum, Karaada has remained largely untouched due to the absence of construction and its exposure to open sea conditions. It is a unique natural treasure and one of the most popular destinations for both daily boat tours and diving tourism.
2. Blue Cruise Bays Towards Gökova (from Happymag Seagarden to Çökertme)
Why Should It Be Protected?
This region includes Kissebükü, Orak Island, Mazı, Molla İbrahim, and Çökertme bays, and represents some of the most pristine and sensitive sections of the Blue Cruise route. With its relatively untouched character, it displays remarkable ecological integrity both on land and at sea.
Ecological Treasures and Species
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Continuous Seagrass Basin:
With the exception of localized concentrations in certain bays, the island is almost entirely surrounded by a continuous seagrass meadow. -
Biodiversity:
More than 10 dive sites are located around the island. Underwater caves (such as Delikli Cave), rocky reefs, and healthy seagrass beds support a rich diversity of marine life. The area is also an important habitat for the Mediterranean monk seal. -
Thermal Springs:
The warm water sources in the northern part of the island (known as “meteor”) contribute to the ecological diversity of the area. -
Dual Seagrass Species:
In addition to Posidonia oceanica, extensive meadows of the fine-leaved Cymodocea nodosa are found in shallower and more sheltered bays. The Happymag Seagarden Peninsula is one of the best examples of this coexistence. -
Orak Island:
With its steep underwater topography, importance as a feeding ground for loggerhead and green sea turtles, and rich seagrass habitats, Orak Island represents a key ecological hotspot in the region. -
Archaeological and Natural Site:
Kissebükü offers a unique landscape where archaeological remains blend seamlessly with forested coastal environments.
Major hotel and residential developments planned for the Gerenkuyu–Yalıçiftlik area pose a serious risk to the region. These projects are likely to increase pollution, degrade seagrass habitats through coastal alterations, and erode the area’s natural integrity. In addition, heavy and unregulated anchoring in the bays continues to place significant pressure on the marine ecosystem.
Conservation Strategy
Southern Bodrum
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Capacity-based smart buoy systems (eco-mooring) should be installed, particularly in Akvaryum Cove.
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The damage caused by boat anchoring to seagrass meadows should be reduced.
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Boat density and waste management must be more strictly monitored and regulated.
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Reefs around Kargı and Köçek Islands should be placed under strict protection.
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All forms of fishing in this area should be prohibited.
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The impacts of coastal development on marine ecosystems must be closely monitored and controlled.
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Coastal construction activities that damage seagrass habitats should be halted.
Northern Bodrum
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The area is a strong candidate to be designated as one of Türkiye’s first true Marine Reserves.
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Smart buoy systems (eco-mooring) should be installed to reduce the damage caused by boat anchoring on seagrass meadows.
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The existing protection status should be reinforced with stronger monitoring and enforcement measures.
Eastern Bodrum
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Karaada should be designated as a priority Marine Reserve area.
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Smart buoy systems (eco-mooring) should be made mandatory in all bays around the island.
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Damage to seagrass meadows caused by boat anchoring must be prevented.
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A Marine Protected Area of approximately 20 km should be established, covering the corridor from Happymag Seagarden Peninsula to Orak Island, Kissebükü, and the Molla İbrahim–Çökertme stretch.
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This area has the potential to become one of the largest marine reserves in Türkiye.
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Coastal development in the region must be strictly prohibited.
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Existing businesses should be encouraged to adopt sustainable coastal use and effective waste management practices.
West Bodrum
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A Marine Protected Area covering the entire Çatal Islands complex should be designated.
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Bottom trawling and all forms of bottom fishing in the region should be completely prohibited.
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Capacity-appropriate smart buoy systems (eco-mooring) should be installed in the sheltered sandy areas of the islands.
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Wave-exposed and ecologically sensitive areas should be designated as strict no-take zones.
Protection of Seagrass Ecosystems
Protecting these areas would help secure a significant portion of seagrass ecosystems across the Bodrum Peninsula and prevent the spread of coastal development and intensive tourism pressure into sensitive habitats.
Coastal Development and Carrying Capacity
However, effective conservation should not be limited to the designation of these reserve areas alone. Limiting coastal development across the peninsula, avoiding the allocation of new tourism zones, and safeguarding coastal ecosystems are of critical importance. From a marine ecological perspective, the Bodrum Peninsula—particularly since the 2010s—has largely reached its carrying capacity in terms of population growth and urban development pressure.
Salih Island and the İkiz Islands: Rehabilitation Potential
In addition, the areas surrounding Salih Island and the İkiz Islands, which were previously impacted by intensive fish farming activities, hold strong potential for ecological rehabilitation and could be designated as Marine Reserve Areas in the future. Protecting this region would contribute to the recovery of marine habitats, particularly in semi-enclosed bays such as Türkbükü, Gündoğan, Torba, and Güvercinlik. According to recent studies, approximately 142 hectares of seagrass meadows still exist in this area.
Ecological Importance of Tuzla Lagoon
Beyond the Küdür Peninsula—designated as a 1st Degree Natural Protected Site and Mediterranean Monk Seal Conservation Area—the Tuzla Lagoon and its surroundings require special protection due to freshwater inputs and valuable coastal habitats. This area may serve as an important feeding and potential breeding ground for threatened cartilaginous fish species such as the common guitarfish (Rhinobatos rhinobatos), the butterfly ray (Gymnura altavela), and the eagle ray (Myliobatis aquila). Therefore, designating Tuzla Lagoon together with Salih and İkiz Islands as a Marine Reserve Area is of significant ecological importance.
Lagoon Ecosystems and Other Sensitive Habitats
Seagrass species such as Cymodocea nodosa and Zostera spp. are also present around the lagoon. As these species are not easily detected through satellite imagery, the ecological value of the area may be higher than current mapping suggests. Furthermore, protecting other sensitive habitats—such as the eastern part of Türkbükü, Aspat, and similar natural stream ecosystems—is essential. Preventing alterations to stream beds and limiting coastal concretization are critical for maintaining the health of the region’s marine ecosystems.