The "WatchReefFish" project (BSB01105) officially launched with a kick-off meeting held from April 1–3, 2026, at the Mercure Hotel Trabzon. Coordinated by the Karadeniz Technical University (KTU) Faculty of Marine Sciences and co-funded by the European Union, this €1.35 million international initiative aims to monitor fish biodiversity across the Black Sea Basin using non-destructive, environmentally friendly methods. The project brings together a strategic network of research institutions from Türkiye, Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, and Georgia to bridge critical knowledge gaps regarding reef ecosystems.

Moving away from traditional invasive sampling, the project utilizes innovative technologies such as Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) systems, underwater visual census, and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to observe fish behaviors and identify species without harming the marine environment. These efforts will result in a comprehensive scientific database and AI-supported recognition tools. Through comparative studies across the basin—ranging from analyzing protected areas to comparing natural and artificial reefs—the project will provide essential data and scientific recommendations to help policymakers ensure the long-term sustainability of the Black Sea.