Turkish research vessel to collect data on phytotoxins in the Black Sea

The Bulgarian Council of Ministers has authorized the entry and stay of the Turkish research vessel R/V TUBITAK MARMARA in Bulgarian maritime spaces from 5 to 20 September 2025.

The vessel will participate in an international scientific expedition in the Black Sea. The expedition is part of the "Assessment of Toxins and Associated Microalgae Species in the Black and Marmara Seas" (ASTRA) project, which is implemented under the European AQUARIUS program. The aim is to study harmful algal blooms and the dynamics of phytotoxins in the Black and Marmara Seas.

The collected data is expected to support risk assessments for shellfish and aquaculture products and will be provided to the food safety agencies in Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey.

Edited by Diana Tsankova
English version: R. Petkova