Is Pinna nobilis l. critically endangered in Neum bay, Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Abstract

After the mass mortality events of Pinna nobilis L. occurred in the neighboring Croatia, and conservation status of this species was changed in the IUCN Red List to critically endangered (CE), a survey was conducted to determine whether this emerging disease had spread to Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H). A site of 1.4 HA, located at the north side of the Neum bay, was investigated. All populations found had 100% mortality rate. Furthermore, there was absence of juveniles and younger individuas. Irregularities in the age structure and density of dead populations found are the signs of certain environmental pressures on this species for a long time. The results indicate that the situation is serious and requires a systematic approach of all competent institutions for the conservation of this species.