Ecosystems: predator / prey interactions (FIS013)

Ecosystem approaches enable fisheries to be sustainably managed by recognising both the complex interactions between species and the effects of disrupting them. This project tailors FAO guidance on ecosystem approaches to Scottish fisheries. The main focus is balanced harvesting, which distributes a moderate level of mortality across many species (rather than high mortality of a few species).

Workshop on fisheries resilience to climate change (FIS028)

Climate-related impacts on the growth of fish and distribution of fish stocks is an important issue for Scottish fisheries. FIS commissioned a 5-day international workshop with global experts, plus a public event with talks from fishermen, to explore what we know now, and what we quickly need to understand, to help Scottish fishing businesses adapt to climate change.

Fishing strategies to manage benthic footprint (FIS026)

The goal of this project is to reduce the impact of towed gear on the seabed. The first step is to identify which habitats are utilised by target species, then use this understanding to mitigate the impact of gears on sensitive habitats. The research will identify how and where global best practice can be tested in Scottish waters.

Modelling the whole-ecosystem impacts of trawling (FIS003)

Trawling impacts marine ecosystems through disturbing sediment and removing fish. This work assesses which of these impacts has the greatest consequences for the marine environment. The work reveals that seabed ploughing generally has small effects compared to harvesting fish, but may have larger impacts locally.

Modelling the physical impact of demersal fishing gears on the seabed (FIS002)

This project assesses the physical impact of trawl gear on the seabed through modelling and trials at sea. The model quantifies the physical impacts of Scottish demersal whitefish and Nephrops fleets and predicts their ecological and environmental impacts. The findings provide management tools for more environmentally-conscious fishing.