2014 Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) Kyle Akin (Loch Alsh) benthic camera survey

The main aim of this investigation in Loch Alsh (within the Lochs Duich, Long and Alsh marine protected area (MPA)) was to improve knowledge of the occurrence and distribution of the species and habitats of recognized conservation importance at two locations. This site was selected for survey because it is an MPA. A drop-down video survey of benthic habitats was undertaken by SNH and the Kyle of Lochalsh Community Trust (KLCT) at 6 sites on the 8th of December 2014 on board the vessel Shuna. Analysis of seabed video and still photographic imagery is used to describe the nature of the seabed in terms of the physical structure and the species assemblages. Runs and run segments were assessed for the presence of protected features and other PMFs, as well as for the presence of species and habitats of recognised conservation importance.