NatureScot Commissioned Report 263: Development of a remote, deep-water survey method for freshwater pearl mussels
Scotland is a global stronghold for the freshwater pearl mussel. Recent estimates suggest that it holds perhaps half of the world’s known remaining viable populations of this protected species.
To date, almost all Scottish freshwater pearl mussel survey work has been concentrated in areas of shallow water where it is safe to wade. However, there are indications that important pearl mussel populations can be found in river reaches too deep for safe wading.
Find out about trials using an underwater video camera from a boat to survey deep water sites for freshwater pearl mussels. Read the discussion of the merits of the new survey methodology and its applicability to Scottish situations.
Pages: 33
Published: 2007
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