Sharks & Rays Discovered Utilizing Offshore Wind Farms As Habitat

Final Up to date on: 14th June 2025, 05:14 am

A brand new research by Wageningen College & Analysis exhibits that offshore wind farms not solely produce power, however might also contribute to the safety of marine life. A number of shark and ray species have been detected in and round Dutch wind farms based mostly on traces of DNA within the seawater (eDNA).

The findings have been revealed within the scientific journal Ocean and Coastal Administration.

Elasmobranchs confirmed by eDNA sampling

For the primary time, scientists from Wageningen College & Analysis have been in a position to verify the lively presence of elasmobranchs inside Dutch wind farms by eDNA traces in seawater. The research mixed new fieldwork with information from The Wealthy North Sea Programme. In complete, 436 seawater samples have been collected, enabling researchers to detect species that had handed by an space with out the necessity for bodily seize.

“We’re making an attempt to grasp whether or not these animals are literally utilizing the wind farms as habitat, or whether or not they’re being displaced by them,” says Annemiek Hermans, PhD candidate at Wageningen College & Analysis.

5 elasmobranch species recognized throughout 4 wind farms

5 totally different shark and ray species have been detected in 4 offshore wind farms: Borssele, Hollandse Kust Zuid, Luchterduinen, and Gemini. The thornback ray (Raja clavata) was probably the most steadily noticed species, occurring year-round in three of the websites. Remarkably, basking sharks (Cetorhinus maximus) — a big, migratory species — have been detected throughout winter in Hollandse Kust Zuid, offering perception into their seasonal actions.

Different species recognized embody the starry smooth-hound (Mustelus asterias) and the blonde ray (Raja brachyura), each discovered throughout a number of seasons and websites.

Offshore wind farms as potential protected havens

Trawling and different types of seabed-disturbing fishing are prohibited inside offshore wind farms, permitting benthic ecosystems to recuperate. Researchers consider that these extra secure habitats may benefit susceptible species akin to elasmobranchs. “We should tread fastidiously,” Hermans cautions. “If we begin permitting backside trawling in these areas, we threat shedding the very safety these zones could provide.”

Non-invasive methods aiding marine research

The usage of eDNA is a promising, non-invasive instrument for marine ecology. “It’s like discovering a fingerprint within the water,” Hermans explains. “Even in the event you don’t see the shark, the DNA tells you it’s been there.” The strategy is quick, cost-effective, and animal-friendly, opening up new prospects for biodiversity monitoring in difficult marine environments.

Findings help marine coverage and conservation

The findings present priceless insights for marine spatial planning and coverage, notably because the EU pushes ahead with initiatives such because the Habitats Directive and the brand new Nature Restoration Legislation. The research explores how offshore power infrastructure could be built-in with marine conservation methods, providing potential win-wins for biodiversity and renewable power.

A part of the ElasmoPower venture

Annemiek Hermans is conducting this research as a part of the six-year ElasmoPower venture, led by Wageningen College & Analysis. The venture investigates whether or not electromagnetic fields from subsea energy cables in offshore wind farms have an effect on elasmobranch behaviour, as these species depend on electrosensory notion for looking and navigation.

The work combines lab experiments with area research utilizing underwater cameras, sensors, and molecular methods. Companions embody TenneT, WOZEP (a part of Directorate Common for Public Works and Water Administration), Naturalis Biodiversity Centre, The North Sea Basis and consultancy Witteveen+Bos, the place Annemiek Hermans additionally works part-time.

Information from Wageningen College