The Iris dates back to Ancient Greek times connecting heaven with earth. Often associated with royalty, wisdom, hope, and valor these elegant flowers draw you in with their purple hues fall deep into the Mediterranean Sea.
The Mediterranean Sea separates Europe, Africa, and Asia and is almost completely surrounded by land. Measuring 2,510,000 square kilometers with an average depth of 1,500 meters it has a coastline that extends 46,000 kilometers.
Its rocky reefs, seagrass meadows, and upwelling areas are particularly important habitats supporting enormous biodiversity. Seagrass meadows provide important habitats and resting areas for numerous marine species, including fish, crustaceans, and sea turtles.
Fish stock levels are alarmingly low in the Mediterranean Sea and the European Environment Agency stated that more than 65% of all fish in the region are outside of their safe biological levels. Some of the most important fisheries with albacore, bluefin tuna, marlin, and others are being threatened.
