2015 Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) Lochs Duich, Long and Alsh MPA benthic camera and grab survey

The aim of this benthic survey in Loch Alsh, run by SNH and Marine Scotland Science (MSS) for SNH from the 26th-29th September 2015, was to improve knowledge of the occurrence and distribution of the species and habitats within the Lochs Duich, Long and Alsh Marine Protected Area (MPA). Dropdown video drifts at 49 stations was one of the methods used to achieve this, using MSS vessel MRV Alba na Mara (cruise 1415A). This survey also contributed to a monitoring programme (of management effectiveness) of refining the distribution of Habitats Directive Annex 1 features adjacent to the partially overlapping Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and to a study of the distribution of protected features within the MPA. Through the analysis of seabed video, the images were 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. 15 grab samples were also collected at 3 stations during this survey period to help assessment of the condition of the seabed habitats within the MPA. Sampling stations were selected to target the Limaria hains bed and burrowed mud habitat. Faunal identification and sediment particle size analysis (PSA) of the grab samples was undertaken by Seastar Survey Ltd, contracted by SNH.