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Biological data interpretation of the Reef East of Shetland Isles Area of Search 2009

Abstract

The aim of this report was to delineate the extent of Annex I reef within the Reef East of Shetland Isles Area of Search and to characterise the biological communities at the site. This was to enable JNCC to assess this Area of Search against site selection criteria in order to judge whether it could contribute to the Natura network as an offshore Special Area for Conservation (SAC).

The available data provided with the contract and previously reviewed by British Geological Survey (BGS) were studied. The study indicated that further analysis might refine the nature and extent of reef features. No additional data were available from other possible data providers. The video and stills were analysed and the sediment characteristics and species recorded entered into a spreadsheet. The relevant fields were then entered into Marine Recorder.

The range of biotopes was small and only three rocky biotopes were identified: (1) Faunal and algal crusts on exposed to moderately wave-exposed circalittoral rock (CR.MCR.EcCr.FaAlCr); (2) Phakellia ventilabrum and Axinellid sponges on deep, wave-exposed circalittoral rock (CR.HCR.DpSp.PhaAxi); and (3) Caryophyllia smithii, sponges and crustose communities on wave-exposed circalittoral rock (CR.MCR.EcCr.CarSp).

Resource type Publication

Topic category Oceans

Reference date 2009·03·01

Citation
Foster-Smith, R, Benson, A and Foster-Smith, J. 2009. Interpretation of Pobie Bank East of Shetland for Annex I Reef, JNCC Report No. 433, JNCC, Peterborough.

Lineage
The purpose of this report was to investigate the extent of Annex I reef within the Reef East of Shetland Isles Area of Search and characterise the biological communities at the site.

Responsible organisation
Communications, JNCC publisher

Limitations on public access No limitations

Use constraints Available under the Open Government Licence 3.0

Metadata date 2020·05·19

Metadata point of contact
Communications, JNCC

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