What is hidden in the luggage? First assessments of illegal seashells gathering in Sardinia (Italy)

Natural souvenirs collection has been identified as a driving force in biodiversity and habitat degradation of tropical marine ecosystems. This work considers this phenomenon in the Mediterranean region taking Sardinia (Italy), one of the most renowned tourism destinations, as a case study. The biological material seized at Cagliari-Elmas Airport (years 2019-2020: 138 kg) was analyzed: 199 taxa were identified, gastropods (112 species, 7866 pieces) and bivalves (63 species, 34,218 pieces) resulted the most represented classes. Twenty-two protected species were found in the tourists' luggage including Patella ferruginea and Pinna nobilis, the invertebrates most threatened with extinction in the Mediterranean Sea. This study demonstrates that the illegal collection of natural mementos is common in Sardinia, thus its relevance is not limited to tropical regions. Regulation, enforcement and compliance shortcomings emerged, highlighting the importance of strengthening stakeholders' collaboration for a deeper insight on this phenomenon and implementing effective conservation strategies.

Automated summary

The study explores the impact of natural souvenirs collection on biodiversity and habitat degradation in the Mediterranean region, using Sardinia, Italy as a case study. Analysis of seized biological material at Cagliari-Elmas Airport revealed 199 taxa, with gastropods and bivalves being the most represented classes. The study also found 22 protected species, including the most threatened invertebrates in the Mediterranean Sea. The research highlights the common illegal collection of natural mementos in Sardinia and the need for regulation and collaboration to implement effective conservation strategies.