Coastal habitats including seagrass meadows, saltmarshes and native oyster reefs are recognised as essential fish habitat, providing nursery grounds, foraging opportunities and refuge for a range of species. However, the extent to which fish move between these habitats within a connected seascape remains poorly understood. As part of the Solent Seascape Project, this study aims to quantify habitat use and connectivity between restored and partially restored habitats by tracking movements of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax), a species of high commercial, recreational and ecological importance.
An acoustic telemetry array was established within Chichester harbour, covering native oyster reef, seagrass and saltmarsh habitats. Eight acoustic receivers were deployed, including four surrounding a recently restored native oyster reef to enable fine-scale positioning of tagged fish, and four additional receivers located within adjacent seagrass and saltmarsh habitats. A total of 120 bass from different life stages will be tagged throughout the course of the study, with the number currently standing at 52 individuals.
The telemetry study contributes to wider Solent Seascape Project objectives investigating habitat use by mobile fauna and biodiversity changes associated with habitat restoration. Detection data will be integrated with complementary eDNA data to assess habitat associations, species occupancy and patterns of connectivity across the seascape. Metrics including residency, site fidelity, habitat transitions and seasonal habitat use will be quantified.
This work will generate much-needed evidence on the ecological value of restored coastal habitats and give insight into the role they play in supporting European seabass populations. The findings will improve understanding of habitat connectivity within the Solent and help inform future restoration design, fisheries management and marine spatial planning aimed at enhancing ecosystem function.
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