Celtic Seas

Habitat characterisation; Habitat extent

Multi-beam echosounders; sediment grabs; acoustic backscatter sensors

Celtic Seas nearshore habitats classified to EUNIS habitat classification. The EUNIS habitat classification is a comprehensive pan-European system to facilitate the harmonised description and collection of data across Europe through the use of criteria for habitat identification. It is hierarchical and covers all types of habitat types from natural to artificial, from terrestrial to freshwater and marine. Data covers nearshore areas of the Celtic Sea off the coastline of Ireland. The Celtic Sea nearshore habitat surveys completed between 2007-2010. Multibeam echosounder data and seabed sampling data acquired during the INFOMAR national seabed mapping programme were the primary sources of data used in the generation of this marine habitat map. The original classes assigned to the data were translated to the EUNIS habitat classification system as part of the MESH Atlantic project. Habitat classification and extent mapping supports understanding and knowledge on the nature of the seabed habitat. Habitat mapping completed by the Advanced Mapping Services team of Ocean Science and Information Services (OSIS) of the Marine Institute (Ireland). Habitat coverage 100% for the area defined and surveyed.

Marine Institute
Rinville
Oranmore
Co. Galway
H91 R673
Ireland