Tatjana Shibaeva
Other projects
This project is designed to initiate a long-term conservation programme for the Ladoga ringed seal (Phoca hispida ladogensis). This is a post-glacial relic that inhabits Lake Ladoga, the largest lake in Europe. The Ladoga and Saimaa species are the only ringed seals in the world that live permanently in freshwater lakes. The population has declined dramatically from an estimated 20,000 in the early part of last century to between 2,000 and 3,000 now. It is felt to be essential that active conservation steps are taken now before the population declines to the point that its remaining genetic diversity is lost.
This large freshwater mammal is the top predator in the food chain in Lake Ladoga. It is thus both an indicator of the health of the lake environment and in itself of immense interest and importance. Safeguarding this species is a best possible guarantee of the conservation of the remarkable biodiversity in this great lake. It is a prime attraction for eco-tourism in the lake region and its loss would have dire consequences in opening the door to further damaging development.
The aims of the project are:
-To initiate and pilot essential priority conservation measures to counter existing and potential threats to the Ladoga seal population, with the long term aim of ensuring that the population remains large enough to maintain genetic diversity;
-To increase local awareness and support for conservation of this species by means of appropriate publicity and campaigning activities;
-To prepare a longer-term project which integrates both conservation and local development objectives.