Visual Baseline Survey and Ongoing Partnership

In partnership with Tritonia, we conducted a visual baseline survey at a proposed salmon pen fish farm site on Scotland’s west coast, near the Isle of Mull. Tritonia, a marine services provider in which we hold a majority shareholding, supplied the remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and experienced pilots to capture high-definition video imagery along pre-determined transects.

This survey was built upon previous visual baseline assessments carried out by Ocean Ecology using Drop-Down Camera systems. The shift to ROV-based surveys enabled the collection of higher-quality imagery, facilitating a more comprehensive assessment of seabed habitats and the identification of Priority Marine Features. The survey is part of a broader programme of work aimed at supporting sustainable aquaculture development and the identification of suitable fish farming sites. Over the past two years, Ocean Ecology has acted as a primary laboratory for macrobenthic, Particle Size Distribution, emamectin benzoate, and Total Organic Carbon analysis of samples from multiple aquaculture sites across Scotland and will continue to provide these services in 2025.

The data collected underpins Controlled Activities Regulations discharge licence applications and supports compliance with regulatory requirements, contributing to the responsible growth of Scotland’s aquaculture industry.