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Contenu archivé le 2024-05-07

Bird predation on mussels in conflict with aquaculture in special protected areas

Objectif



Research objectives and content
In Ireland, recently important areas for wintering birds are designated Special Protected Area and are protected under European and national low. Several sites are also important areas for shellfish cultivation. Field data on the interactions between bird populations and the intertidal mussel beds is limited, especially in Ireland. Essential research into these interactions is necessary to be able to develop a management plan for a sustainable use of these shellfish areas. The aim of this project is to give an overview over the conflicts occurring between aquaculture and nature conservation in the different Special Protected Areas. In selected areas, the interactions between bird and mussel populations will be studied in detail. Estimations of the mussel consumption through birds will be made, its effect on the mussel populations and its relation to other elimination factors will be evaluated. The effect of size selection of the different bird predators and the flexibility in the food composition of each bird species will be studied. Ultimately, recommendations for a sustainable management plan will be made.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
Young scientists will learn to apply different field and laboratory methods appropriate for this research field. They will learn how to evaluate predation effects by birds on mussel populations and how to adapt their model to the local situation.
Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
There are links with shellfish cultivation. The aim is to advise the industry of shellfish cultivation in order to have less impact on the natural environment in Special Protected Areas in Ireland.

Champ scientifique (EuroSciVoc)

Programme(s)

Thème(s)

Appel à propositions

Données non disponibles

Régime de financement

RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)

Coordinateur

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK, NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF IRELAND, CORK
Contribution de l’UE
Aucune donnée
Adresse
Lee Maltings, Prospect Row
30 CORK
Irlande
Coût total
Aucune donnée