Conservation of freshwater mussels: a pan-European approach

Acronym: CONFREMU

Competition title: COST Action Proposal

Funding: EU programi

AFZ role: partner

Contract No: KK.01.2.1.02.0073

Start date: 2019/10/25

End date: 2023/10/25

Web: https://confremus.eu/

Freshwater bivalves are a large, diverse and important group, since they can dominate the
biomass of many ecosystems. Furthermore, they are among the world's most imperilled taxonomic groups. Studies
on freshwater bivalve ecology and conservation provide the basis for inter- and trans-disciplinary research and
innovation, integrating knowledge into practice of freshwater protection. Freshwater bivalves provide crucial
ecosystem functions and services such as water purification and nutrient cycling, thus can be used as nature-based
tools for improving ecosystem functions and services as well as representing important indicators of ecosystem
health. Through the international cooperation of scientists from multiple disciplines, both within and outside
biological sciences, and with participation from stakeholders and NGOs, this Action will aim to fully understand the
biodiversity crisis being faced by Europe’s freshwater mussels. We will then develop evidence-based solutions to halt
the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services mediated by these organisms.

Prof. Marina Piria, PhD
University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture

Ivan Špelić, PhD
University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture