New case study: using 3D models to study aquaculture’s impact on rocky seabeds
SAIC’s 50th project paved the way for smarter monitoring of the seafloor
Marking SAIC’s 50th funded project – and setting the stage for further innovation – this landmark project from Scottish SME Tritonia and Heriot-Watt University demonstrated the power of 3D imaging to monitor the health of rocky seabeds. The project showed that the technology had the potential to be a powerful tool for monitoring aquaculture impacts while supporting environmental protection.
Traditional seabed monitoring methods, e.g., grab sampling, are often ineffective or simply impossible to use in rocky environments or where Priority Marine Features (areas of particular conservation importance) are present. These limitations can hinder our understanding of how such habitats respond to aquaculture-related pressures, creating knowledge gaps that restrict evidence-based regulation and protection.
This project explored the use of 3D photogrammetry - a technique that creates detailed digital models from underwater photographs - to assess environmental impacts from aquaculture more accurately and consistently. Four sites were chosen to test the technology:
- a seaweed farm characterised by a combination of sandy silts and rocks
- a maerl seabed adjacent to the seaweed farm sharing similar environmental habitats and species composition
- a site in Dunstaffnage channel featuring large bedrock and coarse sand
- a fish farm operated by Mowi in the Sound of Barra
Two methods were tested: diver-based and remotely operated vehicle (ROV)-based imaging. The resulting 3D models revealed fine-scale features of the seabed, such as surface complexity and habitat structure, which are key indicators of environmental health.
These efforts proved effective in detecting subtle changes in habitat condition, such as sediment build-up and loss of structural complexity. This gives regulators and the wider aquaculture sector robust, science-based evidence to support sustainable aquaculture practices.
The recommendations of this project were to improve geolocation accuracy, expand survey areas, and integrate advanced camera systems. By continuing to develop and apply these technologies, Scotland can strengthen its ability to protect vital marine ecosystems while supporting responsible food production.
The project was so successful that it went on to attract further investment to refine and enhance Tritonia’s technology and build on the findings of this 50th project. The first was a feasibility study funded by the UK Seafood Innovation Fund (SIF) which was followed by a full R&D project, also funded by SIF. Both projects were supported by SAIC.
Further reading
- News release announcing SAIC's 50th project
- SIF-funded feasibility project case study (first follow-on project)
- Full R&D SIF-funded project case study (second follow-on project)
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