Spatial and temporal benthic species assemblage responses with a deployed marine tidal energy device: a small scaled...

Area of Science:

• Marine Ecology
• Benthic Ecology
• Renewable Energy Impacts

Background:

• Man-made structures in marine environments enhance seafloor complexity, affecting benthic communities.
• Limited data exists on how tidal energy devices influence these ecosystems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of a tidal energy device on benthic species biodiversity, composition, and habitat.
• To compare ecological patterns at a tidal energy device site with a control site.

Main Methods:

• Commercial fishing and towed video surveys were conducted over three periods between 2009 and 2010.
• Ecological data was collected at a tidal energy device site and a control site in Orkney.

Main Results:

• The tidal energy device site exhibited higher species biodiversity and distinct community composition compared to the control site.
• Both sites were dominated by crustacean species with omnivore/predatory feeding regimes and tide-swept EUNIS habitats.
• Habitat types showed temporal variations at both locations.

Conclusions:

• The tidal energy device may function as a localized artificial reef, enhancing local biodiversity.
• Additional comprehensive studies are necessary to fully elucidate the ecological effects of tidal energy structures.