2011 Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) biological analyses of Marine Scotland Science (MSS) Armadale benthic camera survey (September)

The purpose of this benthic survey (cruise 1311A) off Armadale was to improve knowledge of the occurrence and distribution of species and habitats of recognised conservation importance, particularly priority marine features (PMFs). An underwater video and still photograph survey was conducted by MSS for MSS between the 19th and 21st September 2011 to collect detailed biological information on the seabed species and habitat features present. Drop-down video drift tows were undertaken at 47 sites within the area. The images, analysed under SNH contract by Dr Colin Moore, were used to describe the nature of the seabed in terms of the physical structure and the species assemblages. MSS used the vessel MRV Alba na Mara for this survey - footage was collected from in Loch Eriboll on the same cruise.