A recent pilot study conducted by Equinor and the Norwegian Research Centre (NORCE) has achieved success in using environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor marine life in the waters surrounding the Hywind Scotland wind farm. The study, conducted in August 2021 at Equinor's offshore wind farm located 25km east of Peterhead, aimed to understand the potential effects of floating offshore wind farms on marine habitats.
NORCE carried out the fieldwork with the support of Ocean Science Consulting (OSC), collecting water samples from the area. These samples were then analyzed in the laboratory using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) DNA sequencing to examine the eDNA content and identify the presence of various fish species.
The findings of the study revealed that a total of 26 fish species were identified in the area. Surprisingly, there was no significant difference in biodiversity between the wind farm area and the reference zone. However, the relative abundance of sprats and herring was found to be higher in the vicinity of the wind farm. Additionally, a faint eDNA signal from harbour porpoises was recorded in the waters surrounding the wind farm.
Kari Mette Murvoll, the principal researcher at Equinor, expressed excitement about the new method of surveying marine biodiversity, highlighting its potential for reducing the need for traditional trawling campaigns. By employing eDNA analysis, reliable and accurate data on the species in the area can be gathered while minimizing harm to the environment and reducing emissions. Murvoll also emphasized the vast potential of this method for other areas of marine biology research and anticipated further advancements in the field.
Traditionally, collecting data on fish biodiversity has been a time-consuming and costly process that could pose risks to the environment. Typically, specialized boats are employed to trawl through a region at regular intervals, collecting and analyzing fish samples. Echo sonars are also used to identify and estimate the fish population. However, the innovative use of eDNA analysis offers a promising alternative, revolutionizing the way researchers approach biodiversity monitoring.
Thomas Gunnar Dahlgren, a research professor at NORCE, expressed pride in being part of the pilot study, which contributes to a better understanding of the potential impacts of floating offshore wind farms on marine ecosystems. By analyzing the eDNA content in water samples, valuable insights into the biodiversity of fish species in the water surrounding the Hywind Scotland wind farm were gained.
This pioneering pilot study not only enhances our understanding of the ecological dynamics near wind farms but also demonstrates the potential of eDNA analysis for advancing marine biology research. With its ability to provide valuable data while reducing environmental harm and emissions, this innovative approach holds great promise for future scientific investigations in various marine environments.
