2015 Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) Loch Fyne (Otter Spit) Limaria bed diver core survey

Diver core sampling was undertaken at Flame shell (Limaria hains) beds in the vicinity of Otter Spit in Loch Fyne by SNH from 10th - 12th August 2015. Sampling was undertaken at the Loch Fyne and Loch Goil Nature Conservation MPA because they support a wide range of protected features, including those with a 'Recover' conservation objective. Replicate core samples were collected by divers along five 25m transects using a standard diver core. 28 infaunal samples were collected on this survey, but no PSA samples were taken. The position of each transect and sample replicate station were recorded. In addition to the collection of infaunal samples, divers assessed the extent of the flame shell bed and permanent transects were established in five locations to enable relocation of the stations. Precision Marine Survey Ltd. were commissioned by SNH to undertake faunal analysis of the samples. Laboratory processing methodologies were based on best practice and followed NMBAQC guidelines.