Resources

FRV Alba Na Mara 1222A

Cruise plan

Cruise Info. 
Ship name (ship code)FRV Alba Na Mara (74NM)
Cruise identifier1222A
Cruise period2022-08-19 — 2022-09-03
StatusCompleted
Port of departureFraserburgh, United Kingdom
Port of returnFraserburgh, United Kingdom
PurposeResearch
ObjectivesObjectives

- To obtain estimates of the distribution and abundance of Nephrops burrows in the Moray Firth, North Minch and South Minch using underwater cameras.
- To use the TV footage to record the occurrence of other benthic fauna and evidence of commercial trawling activity.
- To collect sediment samples at each UWTV station.
- If time permits, collect trawl caught samples of Nephrops for comparison of reproductive condition and morphometrics in each of the different survey areas.
- If trawling occurs, record and retain marine litter obtained from trawling as part of the MSFD.

Procedure

Where possible, a random stratified approach will be adopted to investigate Nephrops burrow density in different regions of the study areas. In certain areas, mainly the North Minch, the stations are in a fixed positon or assigned using VMS data. A list of proposed stations for the survey will be made available to the ship prior to sailing.

1. TV Observations: At each station a video camera mounted on the TV sledge will be towed across the seabed, into the tide and for approximately ten minutes at approximately one knot. Nephrops burrow abundance, other benthic fauna and signs of anthropogenic activity will be recorded on to DVD. Distance traveled by the sledge, the depth at which the sledge is at and camera height from the seabed will be monitored and recorded automatically
2. Sediment Sample: Obtaining sediment samples will be attempted using a van Veen sampler mounted on the sledge, to be deployed at the end of each sledge run. Samples will be frozen and no chemicals will be involved. A Day Grab will be available for sampling if the van Veen fails on a regular basis and if time allows
3. Trawling: Fishing trawls of approximately 60 minutes duration will be made within each sediment type and within each survey area. A range of biological and morphometric data will be collected on Nephrops caught.

TV work will normally take place during daylight hours and stay within WTR guidelines.
There may be a requirement for trawling to take place in the evening. On days where trawling will take place, work patterns will be arranged so not to exceed WTR recommendations.
It is proposed that work will initially commence in the Moray Firth and then the west to North and South Minch.
The work in the South Minch will target remaining stations that were unable to be undertaken during survey 0722S.
Chief scientistGerald McAllister (Marine Scotland Aberdeen Marine Laboratory)
Cruise programmeFRV Alba Na Mara 1222A cruise programme 1222a.pdf  (0.82 MB) 
Ocean/sea areas 
GeneralNorth Sea
Inner Seas off the West Coast of Scotland
SpecificMoray Firth, North Minch and South Minch
Track chartsFRV Alba Na Mara 1222A cruise track — 1222atrk.pdf (0.26 MB)