Regional marine research continues despite pandemic

Marine research to advance management of the seas around Ireland, Western Scotland and Northern Ireland has continued despite the pandemic through the SeaMonitor project.

Sine April, the EU INTERREG VA-funded project, led by the Loughs Agency and supported by eight leading marine research institutes, has deployed special tracking technology to understand and protect vulnerable marine life.

Acoustic telemtry

Scientists have tagged and released over 250 fish from five rivers across the reference area. Using acoustic telemetry, listening stations from Malin Head, Ireland to the island of Islay in Scotland have recorded transmissions from the tagged species.

The data, which is due to be downloaded in the autumn, will be used to support conversation of vulnerable species such as salmon, basking sharks, skate, dolphins, whales and seals.

“The Agency’s team, together with project partners, are continuing to work hard to ensure project objectives are delivered during these unprecedented times, while maintaining the appropriate social distancing and health and safety protocols for field work,” remarked Sharon McMahon.

Gina McIntyre, CEO of the Special EU Programme Body said the data gathered will help to conserve vulnerable species:

“It only serves to highlight the benefits that are created through strong, mutually beneficial cross-border partnerships in the management of marine protected ares and species.”