Batumi State University (BSU) is implementing MACRO CLEAN (Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms) project which aims to reduce this problem and to provide environmental and economic benefits by using seaweeds in a sustainable way.
Within the framework of the project, BSU is conducting in-depth research on macroalgae in Black Sea region with standardised protocols and effective data management practices. The research has 3 main tasks:
- assessment of physical and chemical indicators of the quality of the marine environment;
- assessment of the level of eutrophication of the Adjara Black Sea coastal waters;
- assessment of pollution level of Georgia marine area.
To study the status of Georgia Black Sea coastal Waters it was identified 7 research stations, where the chemical and biological observations (based on agreed indicators) were conducted. These stations are – Poti (maltakva river mouth), Tsikhisdziri, Green Cape, Batumi (New boulevard area), Gonio, Kvariati, Sarpi.
Onsite activities during the research included:
- Research of hydrochemical parameters T, pH;
- Water sampling for determination of dissolved oxygen and BOD;
- Water sampling for determination of Chlorides, Sulphates, Total alkalinity, Hardness, TSS;
- Water sampling for determination of nutrients Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate, Phosphate;
- Water sampling for determination of organic pollutants - Pesticides;
- Water sampling for study of Chlorophyll.
To assess the ecological status of rocky habitats along the Georgian Black Sea coast, a study of macrophyte communities was conducted during the spring and summer of 2025. Samples were collected from monitoring stations in Sarpi, Kvariati, Gonio, Green Cape, Tsikhisdziri, Poti, and Maltakva. These sites are characterized by rocky and stony shores and are exposed to varying degrees of anthropogenic impact.
Hydrobiological samples were taken at depths ranging from 1 to 5 meters (isobaths) using scuba diving techniques and a periphyton frame (1m x 1m). In 2025, a total of 10 hydrobiological samples of macrophytobenthos were collected. Their processing, species identification, and calculation of morpho-functional indices were carried out.
The hydrobiological stations at Sarpi and Green Cape are distinguished by their high species diversity of macrophytes. A total of 12 species were identified along the rocky shores of Sarpi, where the dominant species is the brown alga Cystoseira barbata , an important indicator of water quality. Other indicator species recorded at this site include Dermocorynus dichotomus, Scytosiphon lomentaria, and Vertebrata subulifera.
In contrast, the Tsikhisdziri shoreline exhibited relatively lower species diversity, with 7 species identified. Cystoseira barbata was collected by research team for research purposes, as its biomass was more readily available.
The research process will continue in autumn, 2025 and winter/spring periods of 2026. The final outcome will be summarized and detailed research outcomes will be published.
MACRO CLEAN is “Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms” is implemented under the Interreg NEXT Cross-Border Cooperation in the Black Sea Basin Programme, of which the Directorate for EU Affairs is the National Authority. Project Partners include – Sinop University (Türkiye) – Lead Partner, Marmara Municipalities Union (Türkiye), Batumi State University (Georgia), Shumen University (Bulgaria).
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