1.In order to foster the development of aquaculture providing environmental services, the EMFF may support:
(a)aquaculture methods compatible with specific environmental needs and subject to specific management requirements resulting from the designation of NATURA 2000 areas in accordance with Directives 92/43/EEC and 2009/147/EC;
(b)participation, in terms of costs directly related thereto, in ex-situ conservation and reproduction of aquatic animals, within the framework of conservation and biodiversity restoration programmes developed by public authorities, or under their supervision;
(c)aquaculture operations which include conservation and improvement of the environment and of biodiversity, and management of the landscape and traditional features of aquaculture zones.
2.Support under point (a) of paragraph 1 shall take the form of annual compensation for the additional costs incurred and/or income foregone as a result of management requirements in the areas concerned, related to the implementation of Directives 92/43/EEC or 2009/147/EC.
3.Support under point (c) of paragraph 1 shall be granted only to beneficiaries who commit themselves for a minimum period of five years to aqua-environmental requirements that go beyond the mere application of Union and national law. The environmental benefits of the operation shall be demonstrated by a prior assessment conducted by competent bodies designated by the Member State, unless the environmental benefits of that operation are already recognised.
4.Support under point (c) of paragraph 1 shall take the form of annual compensation for the additional costs incurred and/or income foregone.
5.The results of operations receiving support under this Article shall be adequately publicised by the Member State in accordance with Article 119.