Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) surveys in Pembrokeshire

This month, the team returned to Pembrokeshire to complete Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) surveys of the marine life at the offshore test site for our nature-inclusive scour protection deployed in the Celtic Sea. The BRUV survey equipment consists of a weighted aluminium frame with a GoPro camera at the centre, and a dive torch to aid with the lower light levels at the site, which lies at a depth of 20m. To attract a range of mobile marine life in view of the cameras, a bait pole extends in front of the frame, with a mesh bait cage filled with a mix of chopped and crushed mackerel and herring.

The primary objective of these surveys was to establish a baseline of the mobile species inhabiting the sandy-bottomed habitat in proximity to the newly deployed scour protection units, as well as nearby natural rocky reef. The BRUV cameras revealed a range of marine species that inhabit the coastal areas of Pembrokeshire. Among them were catsharks, gurnards, flatfish, hermit crabs, and brown crabs, showcasing the rich diversity which thrives in these waters.

By repeating these surveys throughout the 18-month study period, we can track changes over time. This data can help us to determine whether the nature-inclusive scour protection units enhance the number of recorded species in the area, and whether the community of species around the units begins to resemble what we might expect at a natural rocky reef environment.

Beyond highlighting the range of marine life which can be beneath the waves, this research is a crucial first step on the path to streamlining the adoption of nature-inclusive designs as part of offshore wind developments. Check out the video for highlights of some of the amazing marine life we recorded!