Fish and fisheries research to inform ScotMER evidence gaps and future strategic research in the UK

Status: Complete

Start date: November 2020

Lead Organisation: Scottish Government Marine Directorate

The study conducted a literature review and consulted stakeholders to address evidence gaps in the Scottish Marine Energy Research (ScotMER) Fish and Fisheries evidence map. It provided research recommendations to fill these gaps, focusing on understanding offshore wind farm impacts on fish and shellfish through strategic research at operational sites. Other priorities include improving evidence on underwater noise impacts and developing habitat mapping tools. For commercial fisheries, the report recommends better access to fisheries data, standardised assessment guidelines, and research on displacement effects. The work emphasises the interdependence of these evidence gaps and advises considering this when planning future research.