IMIS

PurposeThe purpose for which the records were collected was to identify the national distribution of Allis Shad (Alosa alosa) in Scotland. Some records were obtained as part of sea fishing bycatch and reported.MethodsRecords were included into the dataset after literature review or direct observations revealed presence. Methods included stake nets, stake net and traps, single trap bag nets, net and cobble, seine netting, ring netting, fixed engine and trawler data.Geographical coverageThe geographical extent of the Allis Shad dataset is limited to the East and West coasts of Scotland, particularly the Solway Firth and the North Sea. The survey reviewed known records of Allis shad distribution nationally. Data was also obtained via the Galloway Fisheries Trusts rare fish project. Records from both of these sources were mainly in rural coastal areas of Scotland. However, data from Marine Scotland Rare Fish Database (G. Henderson, pers comm) also revealed sea fishery data from vessels in the North Sea. All of the Marine Scotland Rare Fish Database records are collated using six figure British national grid-references. The majority of the remaining data was collated using a resolution of 100m grid-references.Temporal coverageThis dataset was created using a literature review of Allis Shad research and catch data in Scotland. Changes in level of fishery bycatch reporting, recording activity over time and changes in data source vary (e.g. fishing vessel, seasons and literature). There are 41 records from 1857 to 2008 where date is recorded by year, 197 records from 1918 to 2010 where the records have an exact date. The records within the dataset have been documented all year round.Data qualityThe Clyde River Foundation reviewed the available literature on Alosa alosa within Scotland, collaborated with other fishery trusts, Marine Scotland and referred to national databases (NBN Gateway) to ensure that the dataset has a geographically comprehensive coverage. However the data have been updated and maintained sporadically with only a few fish being encountered annually and not by any one definitive person or organisation.