Information and conservation centres

The Hydrobiological Station of Rhodes hosts gizani fish stocks at its laboratories, thus participating actively in the conservation of the species. Furthermore, a special exhibition and information area for gizani was created in the visitors' section of the Station (namely the Aquarium-Museum), to raise public awareness on the gizani issue.

Two additional information and conservation centres for gizani were created in Rhodes, within the boundaries of the Agia Eleoussa and Psinthos villages. Small kiosks were constructed that house informative material, both printed and electronic (i.e. CDs and multimedia presentations using info-points) concerning gizani uniqueness, biology, ecology, conservation status and need for protection. Close to the kiosks there are water reservoirs hosting gizani from the local populations. Paved paths, benches, etc. have been constructed to accommodate the visitors at the sites.

All three centres serve as information and sensitisation sites for the public, as well as controlled places for gizani stock maintenance. The visitors are informed about the species, while at the same time they can observe the fish living in the water reservoirs. The centres, thus, contribute both to the development of eco-tourism, as well as to raising public awareness of the need for environmental conservation and the protection of this unique fish species.