Description: The project successfully achieved its objective of developing tools for monitoring major anthropogenic pressures and quantifying ecosystem services in the Maori lagoon. All planned activities were completed, and the proof of concept for using sponges as auxiliary organisms for monitoring was validated. Spatiotemporal variations in the microbiota of two sponge species indicated site-specific bacteria, potentially indicative of environmental conditions. The project also addressed significant knowledge gaps regarding sponges in Mayotte, paving the way for future biodiversity research. Stakeholders, including Mayotte University Training and Research Center, Mayotte Nature Environment, and Mayotte Marine Natural Park, fulfilled their roles effectively, fostering productive partnerships and ensuring continued funding for future endeavors. Operational challenges highlighted the need for streamlined budget reporting processes and careful stakeholder anticipation, particularly in short-term projects like this one.
Duration: 14 months
