Marine protected areas in the northern part of the Bulgarian Black sea shelf

The Bulgarian marine reserve was proposed to be 'mirror-like'to the Romanian protected area. The main anticipated zone should be situated from the Bulgarian-Romanian border (cape Siviburum, cape Kartalburum) to the southern part of the Durankulak lake. We suggest also establishment of two additional zones for marine reserve: first one is situated at the shallow waters in front of the Krapets village and Shabla. In those peculiar habitat was found mass occurrence of Turbot (Psetta maxima L., 1758) for spawning in spring (April-June). Moreover, this species suffered overexploitation of the stock during the long period, and recently the marine fishing legislation advice restrictions on the small size catches. In this point of view, determination of this protected area will contribute to the population conservation and will facilitate the implementation of legislation recommendations. The second additional proposed area is situated from Tiulenovo to Kamen briag, where previously (until 60's) were observed couples of the seal monk (Monachus monachus). This species was included in the Red Book of the Black sea endangered species in 70's. The seal monk belongs to the group of top-predators, which distinction together with reduction of the dolphins abundance was the main reason for the trophic cascades in 80's, with deleterious effects on the whole ecosystem. The establishment of the protected areas will couple together strong ecological effects (biodiversity conservation and restoration of the endangered species) and socioeconomic effects (restriction of the poaching and bottom trawling and drag-net fishing).