1) The MedMPA project is a European Community-funded initiative, coordinated by UNEP-MAP’s RAC/SPA, whose purpose is to collect scientific information for the establishment of marine protected areas and to elaborate management and zoning plans suitable for specific contexts. The project is based in 7 Mediterranean countries and involves collaboration schemes amongst different scientific Mediterranean institutes.

2) Mediterranean monk seal coastal habitat is currently associated with isolated stretches of rocky coastline characterized by caves and haul-out areas providing protection from human disturbance, such as caves with underwater or hidden entrances. To this end, habitat availability generally implies a presence of the abovementioned coastal characteristics, as well as adequate prey sources.

3) Sectors characterized by low human pressure and a medium-high possibility of coastal cave presence were given a high priority ranking in terms of possible coastal habitat suitability; sectors characterized by medium human pressure and medium possibility of coastal caves were given a medium ranking; areas characterized by high human pressure and low possibility of coastal caves were given a low ranking, while areas characterized by high human pressure and no presence of coastal habitat were given a null ranking.