Marine Protected Areas and Burrowed mud
Position paper
Summary
1.
This paper presents an overview of the composition and distribution of the burrowed
mud MPA search feature across Scottish waters, assesses coverage within existing
protected areas (primarily SACs) and previously identified MPA search locations, and
presents the case for a series of additional search locations.
2.
Five existing sea loch protected areas are already considered to provide some
protection to the burrowed mud feature; three are Special Areas of Conservation
(SACs - Loch nam Madadh, Loch Laxford, and Sullom Voe) where mud is
encompassed within the ‘large shallow inlets and bays’ Annex I habitat category, and
two are areas where existing fisheries restrictions are in place (Loch Gairloch in Wester
Ross and Gare Loch, Argyll and Bute). Of these areas, Loch Gairloch is encompassed
within an MPA search location (Gairloch, Loch Torridon and Northern Inner Sound).
3.
The East Mingulay SAC, which was recently designated for its cold-water coral reefs,
affords protection to burrowed mud habitat in the South Minch. However, the site
boundary was specifically developed to minimise overlaps with the habitat and the
SAC is not considered to make a viable contribution to the MPA network for this
feature. Similarly, in offshore waters to the west of Scotland, a small number of
records of the tall seapen from within the Hatton Bank fisheries closure are not
considered a viable example of the habitat.
4.
The development of an ecologically coherent network of MPAs requires that aspects of
geographic range and ecological variation are encompassed (see Marine Scotland,
2011a) and that there is replication of this feature within the network to ensure
resilience. For the burrowed mud MPA search feature this entails i.
Representation of the range of main physical settings in which the feature occurs
in Scottish waters i.e. in sea lochs and also in open water away from the coast;
ii. Reflecting the geographical range of the feature in the network i.e. by having
sites for the feature in OSPAR Regions II, III & V; and,
iii. Representation of known ecological variation across Scottish waters - this is in
part also covered by aspects of geographical range but essentially necessitates
the representation and replication of all sub-components of the MPA search
feature at the network level. Where possible, representation will be achieved
through the identification of locations that have more than one sub-component of
the feature.
5.
Burrowed mud is currently being considered as a component interest of eight of the
MPA search locations discussed at the October MPA workshop. In conjunction with
the existing protected areas, these are considered to provide sufficient coverage of the
feature in OSPAR Region V (Far West MPA region) and reasonable coverage of the
main habitats and species in OSPAR Region III (West and South-west MPA regions).
The exception in this region is mud habitat with populations of the tall seapen in
exposed areas away from the coast - a markedly different physical setting. Coverage
of the feature is still poor in OSPAR Region II (East MPA region). These findings
mirror the preliminary conclusions from workshop 3 (October, 2011 - see ‘interim post
workshop report’) and reflect the origins of the initial search locations.
6.
In OSPAR Region III, burrowed mud coverage is largely restricted to sheltered
nearshore areas (primarily sea lochs but also within the Sound of Canna and areas of
shelf deeps to the north and east of Rum within the wider Small Isles search location).
The invertebrate communities associated with the mud of the sea lochs (e.g. seapens
1
and burrowing sea anemones etc.) are likely to be largely self-seeding due to restricted
water exchange with adjacent open sea areas and larval dispersal limitations. To that
end, four of the five initial MPA search locations in this OSPAR region have been
targeted at good examples of mud habitats and species with a restricted geographical
distribution and limited recovery or dispersal potential (e.g. fireworks anemone, habitat
supporting the echiurian worm Maxmuelleria lankesteri and, to a lesser degree, the tall
seapen which has a wider distribution). Where burrowed mud is included as part of a
sea loch search location, it is as one element of a multi-feature proposal designed to
maximise delivery on other search feature priorities (further details provided in the sea
lochs position paper and the MPA search location overview documents).
7.
The initial MPA search location encompassing burrowed mud in the Firth of Clyde was
reduced in scale to focus on priority sea loch features (including specific subcomponents of burrowed mud with a more restricted distribution). This location has
been supplemented by a third party nature conservation MPA proposal to the south of
Arran (Arran Coast), which includes burrowed mud all along its outer margins (see third
party proposals overview paper for details). This multi-feature location provides
valuable additional representation of the habitat within the open firth and both the Arran
Coast proposal and Clyde sea lochs search location will be considered further.
8.
An example of burrowed mud habitat in an exposed open water situation away from
the coast was required to complement the sheltered sea loch and Small Isles search
locations in OSPAR Region III. Suitable high quality habitat was identified adjacent to
the Shiant East Bank in the North Minch (an example of the shelf banks and mounds
MPA search feature) and an MPA search location developed to encompass both of
these search feature priorities. The location boundary was not drawn to capture a
specific proportion of the extensive burrowed mud present in this broad geographic
area, rather it was felt that a modest extent of habitat supporting all three species of
seapens could make the requisite contribution to the MPA network, thereby delivering
sufficiency in this OSPAR region.
9.
Two MPA search locations have been developed in OSPAR Region II. Both
encompass multiple feature interests in addition to the burrowed mud, including largescale MPA search features and key areas of geodiversity interest (the Southern Trench
and one of the tunnel valleys comprising the Fladen Deeps or ‘The Holes’). The
Central Fladen location also encompasses one of two records of the tall seapen (~x30
individual seapens observed on a single video transect in 2010) on the east coast of
Scotland (see relevant MPA search location profile for details).
10.
The four additional MPA search locations identified to help achieve sufficiency in
coverage of the burrowed mud search feature within the MPA network (encompassing
principles of geographic and ecological range and variation) are i.
Central Fladen
ii. Southern Trench and Smilers Holes
iii. Shiant East Bank
iv. Arran Coast
11.
The suite of MPA search locations that could make a contribution to the protection of
the burrowed mud MPA search feature, and that are recommended for progression to
a full application of the MPA Selection Guidelines, are presented on Figure 1. This
map shows only those MPA search locations relating to burrowed mud. For example,
there is an additional search location on the Clyde Sea sill. Whilst containing burrowed
mud, it has not been proposed for inclusion within the search location.
12.
The detailed application of the MPA Selection Guidelines may lead to future
refinements to the search locations contributing to the protection of burrowed mud.
2
Figure 1
MPA search locations that could make a contribution to the protection of the burrowed mud MPA search feature
NB this map does not show the full suite of MPA search locations in Scottish waters
3
Purpose of document
13.
This paper outlines the rationale for, and the progress made in the identification of
MPA search locations for the burrowed mud MPA search feature within Scottish
waters. The paper has been prepared to support discussions at the 4th national MPA
stakeholder workshop on March 14th and 15th, 2012.
Background
The MPA search feature
14.
The MPA search feature (Marine Scotland, 2011a) represents areas of fine mud,
sandy mud, and muddy sand at water depths ranging from 10 m to greater than 500 m,
areas of which are heavily bioturbated by burrowing megafauna, with burrows and
mounds typically forming a prominent feature of the sediment surface. The habitat
may include conspicuous populations of seapens, typically Virgularia mirabilis and
Pennatula phosphorea; although in deeper waters off the continental shelf,
Kophobelemnon stelliferum and Umbellula encrinus may be recorded. Burrowing
crustaceans present may include langoustine Nephrops norvegicus, the mud shrimps
Calocaris macandreae, Callianassa subterranean, or Maera loveni and the crab
Goneplax rhomboides. In fjordic sea lochs and sheltered deeper water on open
coasts, the tall seapen Funiculina quadrangularis and the fireworks anemone
Pachycerianthus multiplicatus, may also be present. In the sedimentary basins of
the northern North Sea and offshore waters on the west coast, seapens tend to be less
common and the burrows of megafauna associated with this habitat are typically larger
and fewer in number than observed closer inshore (Marine Scotland Science pers
comm.).
15.
Further details on this MPA search feature are provided in the draft 1-page MPA
search feature description documents (Tyler-Walters et al., in prep.). The distribution
of the burrowed mud MPA search feature in Scottish waters is illustrated in Figure 2.
16.
The inshore deep mud with burrowing heart urchins MPA search feature is a related
but distinct interest not considered in any further detail within this review (covered
within the sea lochs position paper).
Relationship with OSPAR T&D habitat
17.
1
2
The burrowed mud MPA search feature broadly equates to the OSPAR Threatened &
Declining (T&D) habitat ‘Seapens and burrowing megafauna communities’ (OSPAR,
2008). The MPA search feature description reflects known physical parameters within
Scottish waters (i.e. not restricted solely to fine mud and with records >200 m) and
specifically highlights three constituent species of conservation importance
(emboldened in para. 14 above). These three species all occur within the two distinct
biotopes1 (SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg and SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax) also recognised
under both the OSPAR and MPA search feature habitat definitions. Further details on
the T&D habitat are provided in OSPAR (2010). Recent OSPAR discussions2
regarding the definition of the T&D habitat are likely to result in future refinements that
mirror the broader distribution of the MPA search feature observed in Scottish waters.
A biotope is defined as the combination of an abiotic habitat and its associated community of species
OSPAR meeting in Bergen in October 2011 on the improvement of the definitions of OSPAR T&D habitats
4
Notes - The majority of the data in the Nephrops underwater TV survey database (and all of the deep water records off the west coast)
have yet to be assigned to biotope categories (hence the ‘potential’ MPA search feature). The first stages of this work were reported
upon in Greathead et al., 2011 and the biotope tagging process will continue in 2012. On the basis of initial results, it is anticipated
that~95%+ of the ‘potential burrowed mud’ records will be formally confirmed as MPA search feature biotopes and added to GeMS
Figure 2
Putative distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature in Scottish waters. Mapping shows records of confirmed and
potential burrowed mud MPA search feature habitat from the Geodatabase of Marine features in Scotland (GeMS) and Marine
Scotland Science Nephrops underwater TV survey databases. Inset map presents wider OSPAR T&D habitat distribution
5
Distribution in Scottish waters and across the OSPAR maritime area
18.
The burrowed mud MPA search feature occurs extensively in sheltered basins along
Scotland’s fjordic coastline, throughout the Minch, in the Moray Firth and Firth of Forth,
and in deeper waters of the northern North Sea. Patchy burrowed mud deposits are
also present in deep water off the west coast, around the St. Kilda Basin, along the
edge of the Continental Shelf (where sand is also observed) and to the south of
Rockall.
19.
The burrowed mud habitat is widely distributed across the OSPAR maritime area (see
Figure 1 inset map). It should be noted that several member states have yet to submit
records for the T&D habitat which is also likely to be present off the coasts of France
and Spain.
Importance of the MPA search feature
20.
The tall seapen and the large burrowing fireworks anemone have a restricted
distribution in UK waters (see para. 24 overleaf) and are of conservation importance in
their own right. The burrowing megafauna characteristic of this habitat are important
bioturbators of the sediment they inhabit (collective term for the construction of
burrows, the transport of materials to and from the deep sediment layers, and the
sorting of sediment particles for feeding purposes). This activity increases the
structural complexity and depth of oxygen penetration into the sediments, enhancing
the survival of other species and increasing biodiversity in what would otherwise be a
low diversity habitat (Widdicombe et al., 2004). The burrows also provide a source of
refuge for smaller invertebrates and fish (Hughes, 1998).
21.
The megafaunal burrowing activity increases the surface area of sediment in contact
with the water column, which together with enhanced oxygen penetration, can
profoundly affect the types and rates of chemical reactions taking place at the
sediment-water interface, in particular the recycling of nutrients such as nitrate and
phosphate, and metals such as manganese (Hughes, 1998; Widdicombe et al., 2000).
These fluxes in both particulate and dissolved materials are essential for a wellfunctioning ecosystem.
22.
Burrowed mud is of high commercial importance for two main reasons - it provides an
important source of prey for many commercially important fish species (Jones et al.,
2000); and, it represents the habitat that supports the Scottish Nephrops fishery. The
Nephrops fishery has developed from a few tonnes in the early 1960s to over 26,000
tonnes in 2010, and Nephrops is currently the second most valuable species landed in
Scotland (£76.7 million in 2010) (Marine Scotland, 2011b). The fishery that has
developed at the offshore Fladen Ground in the North Sea is now the biggest
Nephrops fishery in the world (Baxter et al., 2011). Nephrops preys upon resident
fauna found in burrowed mud habitats and the habitat itself may provide an important
nursery area for certain species of fish (OSPAR, 2010).
Known geographic range and ecological variation of burrowed mud in Scotland
23.
Burrowed mud is present in all the MPA regions. The majority of records are assigned
to the SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg biotope. In Scotland, SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax is only
found in the West (Territorial) MPA region, primarily within a small number of sea lochs
(e.g. Loch Sween, Loch Fyne, Loch Sunart and Loch nam Madadh) and, more
recently, from within the Sound of Canna (Howson et al., 2012).
6
24.
Tall seapens and fireworks anemones are encountered most frequently in undisturbed
muddy sediments on the west and south-west coasts of Scotland (Greathead et al.,
2007; MSS, in prep.). The fireworks anemone has the more restricted distribution, with
the most significant populations known from a handful of sea lochs (e.g. Loch Fyne,
Loch Sunart, and Loch Duich). There have also been recent scattered records of this
species in deep water on the open coast e.g. within the Mingulay SAC associated with
coarser mixed sediments, and south of the Crowlin Islands (Moore, 2011). Both
fireworks anemone and tall seapens have been found historically, albeit with an
extremely scarce distribution, on the east coast of Scotland. In contrast, the mud
burrowing amphipod Maera loveni is distributed throughout Scottish waters with the
majority of records present in the muddy parts of the North Sea.
25.
Drivers of ecological variation within burrowed mud communities have been identified
as sediment type, salinity, organic content and depth of the habitat (Lancaster et al., in
prep.). In the Far West MPA region, along the continental slope, the burrowed mud
habitat is characterised by less familiar deeper water species of seapen, such as
Kophobelemnon stelliferum and Umbellula encrinus.
Feature sensitivity to activities taking place in Scottish waters
26.
Components of the burrowed mud habitat are sensitive to physical disturbance arising
from activities ranging from fishing to the installation of industrial infrastructure.
Burrowed mud habitats are also affected by organic enrichment and / or deoxygenation
arising from activities such as aquaculture and sewage disposal; and changes in
temperature, salinity and water flow rate arising from activities such as energy
production (Tillin et al., 2010; OSPAR, 2010).
27.
It is important to note that the extent to which the abundance of species and the
community structure are affected by a pressure is strongly dependent on a range of
factors including: the type of substratum; strength of currents and / or tides; the
duration, extent and frequency of the disturbance; and intrinsic capacity of the
population to withstand and recover from the disturbance (FSBI, 2001).
28.
Increases in suspended sediment (siltation rates) arising from localised disturbance of
the seabed (e.g. from anchoring, pipe-laying, fishing activity) or the disposal of
sediments (e.g. dredge spoil) may affect the feeding efficiency of suspension feeders
such as seapens. Within limits, this habitat does have the capacity to recover from
smothering (Hill, 2008) but this will be determined by the magnitude and longevity of
deposition. Permanent changes to seabed sediment granulometry are likely to result
in shifts in benthic community composition.
29.
Perhaps not surprisingly, in light of the direct overlap of the habitat with a key target
species, mobile fishing activity is considered to exert the most widespread and
sustained pressure on burrowed mud in Scottish waters. Most Nephrops are caught
by trawlers, but creel fisheries are also important, particularly on the west coast. The
physical abrasion and penetration of the seabed surface arising from bottom trawling
for Nephrops represents a significant intervention in an otherwise stable, low-energy
environment (MacDonald et al., 1996). Trawling effectively scrapes the seabed,
removing emergent epifauna and leaving the seabed flattened and highly modified
(Magorrian and Service, 1998). Epibenthic non-mobile fauna including seapens and
the fireworks anemone (as well as other fragile epi- and in-faunal invertebrates), may
be uprooted and / or suffer mechanical damage. Because of its inability to retract into
the sediment, the tall seapen is considered to be particularly vulnerable (Greathead et
al., 2005), although relatively low numbers of individuals are still routinely recorded in
some heavily fished areas in open coastal waters (MSS, pers comm.).
7
30.
There is evidence of resilience to frequent disturbance in the mobile burrowing
megafaunal component of the mud (specifically including Nephrops), which is not
affected to the same degree (Vergnon and Blanchard, 2006). This can, in part, be
explained by the fact that only a proportion of the Nephrops population may be
exposed to fishing events (i.e. are at the surface) due to the complex patterns of
emergence behaviour (Hughes, 1998). This behaviour can vary according to diurnal
rhythm, gender, and reproductive stage (juveniles and egg-carrying females remain
within their burrows and are not usually caught in trawls). This selective facilitation of
some species (particularly small mobile deposit feeders and carnivores such as
Nephrops) has played a role in observed macrobenthic community changes (Ball et al.,
2000; Hily et al., 2008; Jennings et al., 2001).
31.
At a regional scale, mobile fishing activity can lead to the dominance of a few species
tolerant to the physical constraints of trawling, modifications to suspended matter
levels in bottom waters, and changes in the granulometry of seabed sediments. The
homogenisation and standardisation of the sediments and their associated
communities is accompanied by a general decrease in biodiversity, species abundance
and biomass in heavily fished areas (Ball et al., 2000; OSPAR, 2010). With effective
fisheries management in place, such declines in the ‘quality’ of the burrowed mud
habitat do not currently appear to be affecting the productivity of Nephrops populations.
32.
The quality of benthic infaunal communities is routinely measured as part of the Water
Framework Directive (WFD). Commercial fishing is considered to play a pivotal role in
the status of a number of coastal waterbodies (see SEPA interactive website
http://gis.sepa.org.uk/rbmp/ for 2008 assessments). Within the Firth of Clyde,
Nephrops trawling pressure is believed to be influencing the ongoing ‘moderate’
classification for benthic invertebrates (based on five-year rolling mean of samples
collected between 2006 and 2010 - SEPA pers comm.). Similar metrics are being
considered as part of Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) assessment work
which will encompass the wider distribution of the OSPAR seapen and burrowing
megafauna communities T&D habitat (Moffat et al., 2011).
33.
Fishing for Nephrops using creels does not cause the same level of direct physical
abrasion as trawling. Seapens, including Funiculina, appear relatively resilient to being
smothered, dragged or uprooted by creels (Kinnear et. al., 1996 in Greathead et al.,
2005) with an ability to re-anchor themselves provided the basal peduncle remains in
contact with the sediment surface. Mortality rates following experimental creel
disturbance are low generally (Eno et al., 1996; Hughes, 1998) with impacts on
Funiculina much lower than trawling but not wholly benign (compared to unfished
habitat) (Adey, 2007). Creel fishing accounted for 24% of landings in the North and
South Minch in 2010 (ICES, 2011a).
34.
OSPAR consider the T&D habitat to be threatened and / or declining across Regions II
and III (covering East, and West and South-west MPA regions respectively). A series
of recommended actions and measures that could be taken to improve the
conservation status of burrowed mud habitat are outlined in OSPAR, 2010. A number
of these measures were formally endorsed through OSPAR Recommendation 2010/11
on ‘Furthering the protection and restoration of seapen and burrowing megafauna
communities in the OSPAR Maritime Area’ (OSPAR 10/23/1-E, Annex 33). Under that
recommendation, Contracting Parties are directed to review existing management
measures for the protection of seapen and burrowing megafaunal communities,
determine whether these are effective and consider what further measures (including
the selection of marine protected areas) are needed to address the key threats.
8
Improving the conservation status of burrowed mud - the role of MPAs
35.
Marine nature conservation action in Scottish waters to deliver upon commitments
such as OSPAR, will be based on a three pillar approach, with action at the wider seas
level (e.g. marine planning or sectoral controls including fisheries management);
specific species conservation measures (e.g. improved protection for seals), and
through site protection measures (e.g. the identification of new MPAs). The strategy
recognises that action taken with respect to a species or habitat is likely to involve
measures under more than one pillar, and in some cases may require actions under all
three pillars. The mix of approaches for individual features is considered on a case by
case basis to determine the most effective delivery options. Further details are
provided in the Strategy for Marine Nature Conservation in Scotland (Marine Scotland,
2011c).
36.
A fundamental principle of the approach to marine nature conservation in Scotland is
sustainable use of marine resources. Marine sectors and industries work closely with
regulators to ensure their activities are sustainable. The 2011 ICES assessment of the
Nephrops stocks in Scottish waters indicates that the majority of stocks were harvested
sustainably in 2010. The exceptions to this were the Clyde and the Firth of Forth
(ICES, 2011a and b) where harvest rates marginally exceeded proxy FMSY3. The fish
stock assessment results vary on an annual basis (cf. Marine Scotland Science, 2010).
ICES advice is presented in terms of a ‘harvest rate’ consistent with high long term
yield and low risk of depletion of production potential. Existing management measures
are currently focussed on the protection of parts of the system (e.g. maintenance of
Nephrops populations) and do not manage the impact of the activities across the wider
environment (e.g. habitat quality degradation / biodiversity declines - see paras. 29 31).
37.
Spatial measures for nature conservation purposes (covering areas of the Nephrops
fishery) may be relevant in two ways:
i.
To provide targeted protection for specific areas from a given activity; or,
ii. To deliver an improvement in the quality of the habitat - in terms of species
richness / biomass / productivity.
In the latter case, further research would be desirable to assess the degree to which
such habitat enhancement measures might also contribute to an improved Nephrops
fishery.
38.
The development of an ecologically coherent network of MPAs requires that aspects of
geographic range and ecological variation are encompassed (see Marine Scotland,
2011a) and that there is replication of this feature within the network to ensure
resilience. For the burrowed mud MPA search feature this entails i.
Representation of the range of main physical settings in which the feature occurs
in Scottish waters i.e. in sea lochs and also in open water away from the coast;
ii. Reflecting the geographical range of the feature in the network i.e. by having
sites for the feature in OSPAR Regions II, III & V; and,
iii. Representation of known ecological variation across Scottish waters - this in part
relates to aspects of geographical range but essentially necessitates the
representation and replication of all sub-components of the MPA search feature
at the network level. Where possible, representation will be achieved through the
identification of locations that have more than one sub-component of the feature.
3
FMSY = fishing mortality relating to maximum catch that can be taken from a population without impairing the
ability of the population to renew itself
9
39.
It should be noted that achieving this representation of geographical range and
ecological variation is likely to require the identification of MPA search locations that
encompass areas of heavily modified habitat as well as more natural / biologically
diverse examples.
40.
Securing the resilience of the network may require the identification of a greater
proportion of this MPA search feature within the network (see Marine Scotland, 2011a).
This requirement relates to the scale of known pressures, the semi-enclosed nature of
many of the fjordic sea lochs and the proportion of the OSPAR T&D habitat present
within Scottish waters.
41.
The contribution that existing area-based measures make to the protection of Scottish
MPA search features, either directly or indirectly has been considered as part of the
Scottish MPA Project and the conclusions in relation to the burrowed mud are
summarised in the following section of this paper.
Coverage of the MPA search feature within existing protected areas
42.
Recent reviews of the coverage of existing protected areas and other area-based
measures (Carruthers et al., 2011 and Cunningham et al., 2011 respectively)
concluded that the most commonly recorded burrowed mud biotope
(SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg) is afforded protection within a small number of sea lochs in
the North, West and South-west MPA regions (x5 sea lochs in total - x3 SACs4 and x2
areas with existing fisheries restrictions5 in place). The less frequently recorded tall
seapen variant of this biotope (SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg.Fun - where the .Fun
represents the tall seapen Funiculina) and the SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax biotope are
only considered protected within one of the SACs (Loch nam Madadh). Three point
records of the tall seapen are afforded protection by the Hatton Bank VME fisheries
closure (Far West MPA region), but these are not considered to represent a viable
example of the habitat (see detailed feature assessment linked to Carruthers et al.,
2011). The fireworks anemone and Maera (the burrowing amphipod) either did not fall
within, or were not considered to be afforded adequate protection within any existing
areas.
43.
The possible contribution of the East Mingulay SAC was considered within the
Carruthers et al. (2011) review but the site had not been formally designated when the
detailed assessment work was undertaken. Recently designated for its cold-water
coral reefs, the SAC affords protection to some burrowed mud habitat (including a
number of records of fireworks anemones) in the South Minch, but the boundary was
specifically developed to minimise overlaps with this habitat and the site is not
considered to make a viable contribution to the MPA network.
44.
Carruthers et al. (2011) concluded that, due to the lack of representation of component
biotopes and species within the existing protected areas, the burrowed mud search
feature was a priority for inclusion in the identification of MPA search locations in the
South-west, West and East MPA regions. Close to the coast, the tall seapen, fireworks
anemone and the SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax biotope were prioritised, with all
component biotopes considered to be inadequately represented away from the coast.
Particular emphasis was placed on the East MPA region in light of the significant
proportion of burrowed mud present here in offshore waters.
4
5
Loch nam Madadh SAC, Loch Laxford SAC and Sullom Voe SAC
Gare Loch FRA (CA53) and Loch Gairloch FRA (CA58)
10
Coverage within the initial suite of MPA search locations
45.
At the 3rd national MPA stakeholder workshop in October 2011, a set of initial MPA
search locations were identified. Burrowed mud was a recognised component within
13 of these locations (12 of which were either restricted to, or derived from, sea lochs see workshop 3 MPA search locations overview paper). Data mining work (Marine
Scotland Science and SEA 7 datasets) undertaken post-workshop has since confirmed
that three of the initial MPA search locations in offshore waters (Far West MPA region,
situated on the continental slope - see Figure 3), also contained burrowed mud.
46.
During the workshop all of the initial MPA search locations were discussed by all
attendees. Stakeholders expressed concerns regarding preliminary recommendations
to take forward only a small number of the sea lochs (max. 2 - 3 of possible options in
West MPA region), although it was recognised that these were in part related to
potential conflict arising from the double-badging of non-Natura features within existing
SACs (relevant to the Loch Sunart, Loch Creran, and Lochs Duich, Long and Alsh
MPA search locations). To that end, nine sea loch MPA search locations were
retained for further consideration of options for achieving feature representation whilst
minimising implications for existing SAC management.
47.
The conclusions of the sea lochs analyses are presented in a related workshop 4
position paper and the revised recommendations seek to best represent combinations
of relevant MPA search feature priorities (multiple features), including sub-components
of the burrowed mud habitat. That review, which took into account the qualities of the
burrowed mud present (e.g. number of records or extent of coverage of different
biotopes and species), resulted in refinements to the proposed boundaries of the Clyde
sea lochs and Arran MPA search location (now named Clyde sea lochs) and also to
the North-west sea lochs and Summer Isles search location (originally Little Loch
Broom). These refinements are outlined in para. 51 of this paper and discussed further
within the sea lochs position paper.
48.
Discussions at workshop 3 also led to refinements in the boundaries of a number of
search locations in offshore waters, resulting in the subsequent inclusion of burrowed
mud habitat (specifically the Norwegian boundary sediment plain, and East of Gannet
and Montrose Fields search locations - inclusion within the latter since discounted).
49.
Those locations from the initial suite that will now progress to a full application of the
MPA Selection Guidelines, and within which the qualities of the burrowed mud MPA
search feature will be assessed in detail, are given in Table 1. The distribution of the
burrowed mud sub-component biotopes and species within existing protected areas
and the initial suite of MPA search locations are shown in Figure 3. Finer resolution
mapping of these areas is provided in Figures A1 - A6, Annex A.
Table 1
Initial MPA search locations supporting the burrowed mud habitat
Search location
Code
MPA region Burrowed mud component biotopes and species
Norwegian boundary
sediment plain
NSP
East
One potential SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg biotope record;
multiple Maera loveni records
North-west sea lochs
and Summer Isles
NWS
West
Multiple SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg (& .Fun variant) biotope
records and multiple discrete records of the tall seapen
Small Isles
SMI
West
Multiple SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax biotope records and lower
number of SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg (with some .Fun variant)
and multiple discrete records of the tall seapen
Loch Sunart
LSU
West
Multiple SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg (primarily .Fun variant)
biotope records distributed throughout the loch with a small
number of SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax biotope records at the
head. Scattered records of the fireworks anemone
11
Search location
Code
MPA region Burrowed mud component biotopes and species
SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg and SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax
biotope records. Scattered records of the tall seapen and
fireworks anemone
Loch Sween and
Sound of Jura
LSJ
West
Clyde sea lochs
CSL
South West
South-west Sula Sgeir
and Hebridean Slope
SSH
Far West
Potential off shelf examples of the SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg
biotope
The Barra Fan and
Hebrides Terrace
Seamount
BHT
Far West
Potential off shelf examples of the SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg
biotope
One of the best locations for the fireworks anemone. A
geographic spread of SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax biotope
records and scattered SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg records
50.
The MPA search location in the East MPA region provides a valuable extension of the
geographic range of the burrowed mud feature and coverage of the sub-component
species Maera loveni, but is certainly not considered to provide to adequate
representation of the biotope in OSPAR Region II.
51.
The original Clyde sea lochs and Arran MPA search location and the North-west sea
lochs and Summer Isles location (which was generated after workshop 3 as a result of
discussions regarding the Little Loch Broom proposal) were both reduced in scale as
part of the review of the contribution of sea lochs (see position paper). These locations
now focus on optimising coverage of multiple feature interests, including specific subcomponents of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax
biotope and the fireworks anemone within the Clyde sea lochs and
SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg.Fun with the tall seapen in the North-west sea lochs).
52.
In order to avoid potential management conflict associated with the double-badging of
existing SACs (e.g. Loch Duich or Loch Sunart), Loch Hourn was reconsidered for
possible further progression. This location, which was originally discounted at
workshop 3, was derived from the Least Damaged / More Natural (LD/MN) work
(Chaniotis et al., 2011) and is covered by the Southern Inner Sound fisheries restriction
(CA57). Survey work in 2011 confirmed the continued presence of fireworks
anemones and the tall seapen variant of the SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg biotope (Moore,
2012) and it was felt that the location could provide the required burrowed mud subcomponents in conjunction with a targeted proposal in Loch Sunart covering only the
flame shell beds (as has been proposed for Loch Creran, another existing SAC).
However, whilst Loch Hourn does support a similar suite of burrowed mud habitats and
species, Loch Sunart encompasses a wider range of other MPA search features and is
considered particularly important for the common skate (see relevant workshop 4
position paper). In light of these qualities, Loch Sunart again emerged as one of the
sea lochs recommended for subsequent progression. Whilst this decision is in
accordance with current MPA policy principles (making the best use of existing
protected areas), the concerns raised at workshop 3 regarding management of nonNatura features are noted and would be discussed in more detail with relevant
stakeholder groups should this recommendation be endorsed at workshop 4.
53.
The series of 5 initial MPA search locations in the West and South-west MPA regions
provide good coverage of the SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg biotope and the tall seapen in
nearshore waters. Collectively they also provide sufficient coverage of the fireworks
anemone and the SS.SMu.CFiMu.MegMax biotope within the network. The search
locations in the Far West MPA region are considered to provide sufficient coverage of
the burrowed mud feature in OSPAR Region V.
12
Notes - 2008 - 2010 MSS video sample records of slender or phosphorescent seapen species (all semi-quantitative abundance categories from Rare
- Abundant on the MSS ACOR scale) have been included to illustrate ‘potential’ burrowed mud habitat. The assignment of biotope tags to these 2008
- 2010 sample records will take place in 2012 and it is anticipated that ~95%+ of the records will be confirmed as burrowed mud (following initial work
by Greathead et al., 2011). Backdrop predictive mapping of burrowed mud habitat includes relevant categories from UKSEAMAP as well as the
fjordic coastlines layer generated for an ongoing SNH and JNCC commissioned research project
Figure 3
The distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by component biotopes and species) within those existing areas
considered to afford protection to the feature and the short-listed MPA search locations from the initial suite that include the search
feature. Mapping data points from the GeMS and Marine Scotland Science Nephrops video stock assessment databases
13
54.
Additional coverage of the SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg biotope and the tall seapen in
open water away from the coast is needed in OSPAR Region III (West and South-west
MPA regions) as are options for improving representation of the search feature
generally in OSPAR Region II (East MPA region). These findings mirror the
preliminary conclusions from workshop 3 (see ‘interim post workshop report’); reflecting
the origins and policy precepts of the initial search locations (sea loch focus).
Identifying MPA search locations to address remaining priorities
55.
MPA search locations to address the perceived gaps in geographic range and
ecological variation of the burrowed mud feature (as outlined in paras. 23 - 25, 38 &
54) were identified using data from GeMS and data from the MSS Nephrops
underwater TV surveys. In accordance with existing policy principles, priority weighting
was given to the development of MPA search locations that encompass multiple
features (where practicable), specifically the presence of i.
Other priority MPA search features;
ii. Other MPA search features, particularly where there is evidence that these are
functionally linked; and,
iii. Key areas and features of geodiversity interest.
56.
The search locations, which are listed in Table 2 and illustrated in Figure 4 (overleaf),
were identified using all available information, including data on seabed sediment types
and Nephrops burrow presence and density, with a focus on areas supporting multiple
species of seapens at higher densities (> Rare abundance). The new MPA search
locations are illustrated in more detail within Figures 5 - 8.
Table 2
Additional MPA search locations supporting the burrowed mud habitat
Search
location
Code
OSPAR Burrowed mud composition
region
Central
Fladen
CFL
II
Anticipated presence of the SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg biotope. Mainly
muddy sand but also sandy muds. Primarily low densities of Nephrops
burrows. Slender and phosphorescent seapens throughout. Tall seapens
and likely SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg.Fun biotope recorded on one video run
in 2010 in the south-east of the search location on sandy substrates
(marginal Nephrops ground). A notable record with ~x30 Funiculina
seapens observed together with other species indicative of relatively
undisturbed substrates.
Southern
Trench and
Smilers Holes
STS
II
Multi-feature search location with potential burrowed mud to the north-east anticipated presence of the SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg biotope. Substrates
mainly muddy sand but interspersed with sandy muds and sands. Moderate
to low Nephrops burrow density. Records of phosphorescent seapens
across habitat with low numbers of slender seapens. Sparse Maera loveni.
Shiant East
Bank
SEB
III
Multi-feature search location (centred on banks and mounds feature)
encompassing multiple confirmed records of the tall seapen. 2011 sampling
(Moore, 2012) confirmed the presence of both SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg and
.Fun variant biotopes. Sparse fireworks anemones were also recorded at
one site on gravelly sand. Nephrops burrow densities moderate to low
abundance. Scattered records of slender and phosphorescent seapens.
Arran coast
-
III
A third party multi-feature proposal encompassing potential burrowed mud
MPA search feature habitat all around the edge of the search location.
Anticipated presence of SS.SMu.CFiMu.SpnMeg biotope. Range of
substrates across the area including mud, sandy muds and muddy sands.
Nephrops burrow densities moderate to low. Sparse records of slender and
phosphorescent seapens and one confirmed record of the tall seapen to the
NW of the location.
14
Figure 4
Relevant existing protected areas and the suite of MPA search locations that
could make a contribution to the protection of the burrowed mud MPA search
feature within Scottish waters
Figure 5
Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-component
biotopes and species), PSA records and Nephrops abundance in the Fladen
Ground MPA search locations (GeMS and MSS survey data)
15
Figure 6
Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-component
biotopes and species), PSA records and Nephrops abundance in the Southern
Trench and Smilers Holes MPA search location (GeMS and MSS survey data)
Figure 7
Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-component
biotopes and species), PSA records and Nephrops abundance in the Shiant East
Bank MPA search location (GeMS and MSS survey data)
16
Figure 8
Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-component
biotopes and species), PSA records and Nephrops abundance in the Arran coast
MPA search location derived from the COAST 3rd party proposal (GeMS and
MSS survey data)
Next steps
57.
A research contract is being set-up in April 2012 (will run until late June 2012) to
assign biotopes to the 2008 - 2010 data in the Nephrops underwater TV survey
database (currently assigned to ‘potential’ burrowed mud MPA search feature habitat).
58.
The continuing improvements to the knowledge-base for this habitat will subsequently
inform the full application of the MPA Selection Guidelines to those search locations
deemed suitable for progression as a result of the discussions at workshop 4.
Dialogue with stakeholders regarding the burrowed mud habitat will continue
throughout 2012 and play a key role in determining the shape of proposals presented
at the fifth MPA stakeholder workshop at the end of June 2012.
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20
Annex A The distribution of burrowed mud within existing protected areas and the
initial suite of MPA search locations
21
Figure A1 Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-component
biotopes and species) off the east coast of Scotland, within short-listed initial
MPA search locations that include the MPA search feature (GeMS and MSS
databases)
Figure A2 Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-component
biotopes and species) in the Sullom Voe SAC (GeMS and MSS databases)
22
Figure A3 Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-components) in
the North Minch, within existing protected areas (incl. fisheries restrictions)
considered to afford protection to the feature and short-listed initial MPA search
locations that include the MPA search feature (GeMS and MSS databases)
Figure A4 Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-components) in
the Sea of Hebrides, within short-listed initial MPA search locations that include
the MPA search feature (GeMS and MSS databases)
23
Figure A5 Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-component
biotopes and species) in south-west Scotland, within existing protected areas
considered to afford protection to the feature and short-listed initial MPA search
locations that include the MPA search feature (GeMS and MSS databases)
Figure A6 Distribution of the burrowed mud MPA search feature (by sub-components) to
the far west of Scotland, within those existing protected areas considered to
afford protection to the feature and the short-listed initial MPA search locations
that include the search feature (GeMS and MSS databases)
24