Marine

Mapping the seabed of the north of Scotland

September 29, 2015 by Marine Scotland Communications No Comments | Category Marine Directorate Science

Biotopes identified within the Farr Point survey area (Scottish Natural Heritage Commissioned Report No. 819).

High resolution seabed bathymetry is now freely available for a section of the north coast of Scotland between the Kyle of Tongue and west of Thurso. MSS surveyed the area in 2014 using a multibeam echosounder. The bathymetric data is of particular interest to the wave energy industry and for the development of a floating wind energy test centre.

The bathymetry is complemented by a suite of photographs and video over the survey area which were collected using a drop-frame camera towed behind the research vessel. Analysis of these images has enabled determination of substrate and biotope from which we will be able to build a habitat map of the survey area. Habitats and species of conservation concern have also been identified.

The dominant habitat type throughout the survey area was rippled fine sand. The fauna was generally sparse, but shells resembling the priority marine feature Arctica islandica were widely distributed in the deeper stations (> 70m). Sand waves made up of coarser substrates are widely distributed in the survey area. Rocky reef habitats composed of boulders and cobbles were found predominantly in shallower water (<45m).
The bathymetric and photographic data can be downloaded on our website, Marine Scotland Interactive.
Article by Dr Marion Harrald

Sandy mounds identified within the survey area (80 to 95m).Bathymetry of the Farr Point survey area (25 to 130m).

Bathymetry of the Farr Point survey area (25 to 130m)

Comments