Sea lamprey distribution and abundance in the River Spey: phases II and III, 2001/2002
Citation
NatureScot (2020). Sea lamprey distribution and abundance in the River Spey: phases II and III, 2001/2002. Occurrence dataset https://doi.org/10.15468/cttj75 accessed via GBIF.org on 2023-01-27.Description
A quantitative survey of ammocoete abundance was undertaken between Grantown-on-Spey and Aviemore. Sampling further upstream was curtailed due to poor weather conditions and high flow levels. Two sea lamprey ammocoetes were found at a single site near Boat of Garten. Historical data suggests that some sea lamprey spawning behaviour occurs in the River Spey upstream of Grantown-on-Spey, although sea lamprey are more commonly observed downstream of the present survey area. No density estimates were calculated from the sea lamprey catch since these ammocoetes were caught outside of quadrat sampling. Report 043: A walk survey of the River Spey was conducted during summer 2002 to identify potential areas of lamprey habitat. These were then classified into optimal and sub-optimal habitat. In total 158 potential areas were identified, 59 of optimal habitat and 99 of sub-optimal habitat. An electro-fishing survey was then conducted at 28 sites (23 optimal habitat and five sub-optimal habitat) using pulsed DC. Timed fishings were conducted at each site providing Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) data. In addition, an estimate of the area fished was also recorded allowing density to be calculated.Purpose
To assess the distribution and abundance of lamprey. The three lamprey species present in UK (brook lamprey Lampetra planeri, river lamprey L. fluviatilis and sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus) are listed on Annex IIa of the Habitats Directive, reflecting concern over widespread declines across their European range. Five Scottish rivers known to hold good populations of lampreys have been selected as candidate Special Areas of Conservation (cSAC).Sampling Description
Quality Control
APEM and Spey Research Trust were contracted to undertake the survey.Method steps
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Method is described in Harvey J & Cowx I (2003). Monitoring the River, Brook and Sea Lamprey, Lampetra fluviatilis, L. planeri and Petromyzon marinus. Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers Monitoring Series No. 5, English Nature, Peterborough.
Data collected by walkover survey and electrofishing
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