A photograph of the underwater forest of posidonia oceanica meadows in the Ses Salines Nature Reserve illustrates the 2024 stamp of the Europa series.
The clarity and purity of the Pitiusas waters (islands of Eivissa and Formentera) are the result of the extensive and well-preserved posidonia meadows. Their existence favours the diversity of exceptionally conserved biological communities, some of which are of great scientific interest. It also contains a rich biodiversity that acts as a nursery (reproduction and nursery of fry) for numerous species. If we compare the primary production values of Posidonia with those of a European forest, we can appreciate the high yield obtained by Posidonia meadows: 1 hectare of forest produces 12 tonnes of oxygen per day, while Posidonia generates no less than 21 tonnes.
Posidonia meadows are a species endemic to the Mediterranean Sea that is not present in any other sea in the world. It can be found from the surface level to a depth of 30-40 metres, depending on the transparency of the water, occupying large areas along the Mediterranean coastline. Unlike algae, it has leaves, stems and roots, although it also produces flowers and fruit. It grows on a mobile, i.e. sandy bottom, while algae grow on hard or rocky bottoms.
This plant, so essential for maintaining the biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea, is listed by CITES and included in the List of Wild Species under Special Protection Regime in the Mediterranean.
The stamp that Correos dedicates to this plant is part of the Europa series. This series is one of the most emblematic in the philatelic world. All the member countries of PostEurope participate in it, each one of them presenting a stamp with its own design, but with a common theme. This year, the chosen theme is underwater flora and fauna.
