Monaco’s coastline and nearby Mediterranean waters host a surprising variety of marine life despite the principality’s small size. Local conservation efforts and monitoring help track species that rely on coastal reefs, seagrass beds, and deeper offshore areas.
There are 5 Endangered Species in Monaco, ranging from Dusky Grouper, Spiny Dogfish to other at-risk marine species; for each entry you’ll find below the Scientific name,IUCN status,Habitat (Monaco) to make comparisons simple — you’ll find below.
How is a species classified as endangered in Monaco?
Assessments rely on IUCN criteria combined with regional data: population trends, habitat loss, fishing pressure and local surveys. Monaco’s records often reference broader Mediterranean studies and national monitoring to determine risk and conservation priorities.
What practical steps can locals or visitors take to help protect these species?
Avoid disturbing coastal habitats, respect fishing regulations and marine protected areas, reduce plastic and chemical runoff, and report unusual strandings or sightings to local authorities — small, consistent actions support recovery.
Endangered Species in Monaco
| Name | Scientific name | IUCN status | Habitat (Monaco) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dusky Grouper | Epinephelus marginatus | EN (2018) | Marine/coastal |
| Red Coral | Corallium rubrum | EN (2015) | Marine |
| Fin Whale | Balaenoptera physalus | EN (2021) | Marine |
| Sperm Whale | Physeter macrocephalus | EN (2021) | Marine |
| Spiny Dogfish | Squalus acanthias | EN (2016) | Marine |
Images and Descriptions
Dusky Grouper
This large, iconic fish inhabits rocky reefs and is a symbol of Monaco’s marine reserves. Populations are small but protected from fishing within these zones. The primary threats remain overfishing outside protected areas and habitat quality degradation from coastal development.
Red Coral
This slow-growing coral forms colonies on deep, rocky substrates off Monaco’s coast. It is threatened by warming sea temperatures, pollution, and historical over-harvesting. Full protection within Monaco’s waters aims to allow for the gradual recovery of these fragile marine animal colonies.
Fin Whale
The Mediterranean’s only resident baleen whale, it regularly visits Monaco’s offshore waters within the Pelagos Sanctuary. This distinct subpopulation is severely threatened by high-speed ship collisions and intense underwater noise. International cooperation is key to its protection within this critical habitat.
Sperm Whale
This deep-diving whale is found in the offshore waters of the Pelagos Sanctuary off Monaco. The Mediterranean subpopulation is small and faces significant risks from entanglement in driftnets, ingestion of plastic debris, and collisions with the heavy shipping traffic in the region.
Spiny Dogfish
This small shark has faced a dramatic decline throughout the Mediterranean due to historical overfishing pressure, often as bycatch. It inhabits the seafloor off Monaco’s coast, and its recovery depends on broader regional fishing regulations and the reduction of destructive fishing practices.
