<p>To the Directorate-General for Environment, European Union,</p><p>We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned about the critical status of the noble pen shell (*Pinna nobilis*), an iconic and ecologically significant species that is rapidly disappearing from the Mediterranean Sea. Once a symbol of the region's rich marine biodiversity, the noble pen shell has suffered devastating declines due to the spread of a lethal parasite, *Haplosporidium pinnae*, and the exacerbating effects of climate change. With mortality rates reaching up to 99% in some areas, immediate and decisive action is imperative to prevent the extinction of this species.</p><p>The noble pen shell plays a crucial role in the health of Mediterranean marine ecosystems. As one of the largest bivalve mollusks, it filters large volumes of water, contributing to water clarity and supporting a diverse range of marine life. The loss of this species would have cascading effects on the entire marine environment, further endangering other species and diminishing the natural heritage of the Mediterranean.</p><p>Given the European Union's commitment to biodiversity and environmental protection, we respectfully urge the Directorate-General for Environment to take the following actions:</p><p>1. Enhance Legal Protections: Strengthen the protection of *Pinna nobilis* under the European Habitats Directive by enforcing stricter regulations on activities that threaten its habitats, such as illegal fishing, boat anchoring, and coastal development.<br>2. Increase Funding for Conservation: Allocate additional resources to support ongoing conservation projects aimed at protecting the remaining populations of noble pen shells. This includes funding for research on the *Haplosporidium* parasite, habitat restoration, and ex-situ conservation programs.<br>3. Promote Regional Cooperation: Facilitate collaboration among Mediterranean countries to establish a comprehensive regional monitoring program. This program should include regular assessments of pen shell populations, coordinated efforts to prevent the spread of the parasite, and the sharing of data and best practices.<br>4. Support Habitat Protection and Restoration: Prioritize the protection of marine protected areas (MPAs) where *Pinna nobilis* populations still survive and support the restoration of degraded habitats. Special attention should be given to enclosed bays and lagoons that have shown resistance to the parasite.<br>5. Raise Public Awareness: Launch an EU-wide campaign to raise awareness about the plight of the noble pen shell and the importance of preserving Mediterranean marine biodiversity. Public support and participation are crucial in the success of conservation efforts.</p><p>The noble pen shell's rapid decline is a stark warning of the broader environmental challenges facing the Mediterranean Sea. By taking immediate action, the European Union can lead the way in preserving this critical species and safeguarding the health of the Mediterranean's marine ecosystems for future generations.</p><p>We urge the Directorate-General for Environment to act now, before it is too late. The time to save the noble pen shell is running out, and your leadership is essential in ensuring its survival.</p><p>Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.</p><p>Sincerely,</p>