Overall Concept

The Mediterranean region, including Cyprus, holds immense ecological and economic significance, but it faces mounting challenges due to intensifying maritime activities and environmental pressures. These challenges are particularly pronounced in marine biodiversity and maritime surveillance, where current systems are often limited in scope and resolution. Effective management of these critical areas requires cutting-edge methodologies to enhance the monitoring and assessment of marine ecosystems and maritime activity, particularly through the integration of advanced technologies. 

In response, AXOLOTL emerges as a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing these pressing challenges by leveraging state-of-the-art deep learning (DL) technologies. The project focuses on two critical pillars: marine biodiversity assessment and maritime surveillance, utilizing advanced methodologies to analyze data from in-situ sampling and remote sensing. AXOLOTL’s innovations aim to detect and mitigate invasive species, monitor vessel activity, and enhance the resolution of satellite data for maritime traffic oversight. 

This transformative Coordination and Support Action, led by the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI) in collaboration with Université de Bretagne Sud (France) and the Flanders Marine Institute (Belgium), bridges gaps in research capacity and knowledge. It seeks to equip Cyprus with robust tools and expertise to address environmental and maritime challenges while aligning with the EU’s digital and biodiversity strategies. The project also targets interdisciplinary breakthroughs by combining AI-driven approaches with earth observation and ecosystem monitoring techniques. 

AXOLOTL outcomes extend beyond technological advancements. By fostering regional and international knowledge transfer, administrative excellence, and entrepreneurial innovation, the project positions Cyprus as a leading hub for marine research. Ultimately, AXOLOTL strengthens the resilience of marine ecosystems and supports sustainable development, contributing to both European and global conservation efforts. This initiative will enhance CMMI’s role as a key player in the international marine and maritime research landscape.

AXOLOTL is funded by the European Union under Horizon Europe GA 101158669.