World Beneath The Waves Revealed In New Report

30th September 2011

For the first time the range of stunning landforms hidden beneath Scotland's seas has been highlighted in a new report published by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

As part of a project to identify marine habitats of high conservation value, earth science experts have prioritised 34 key geological and geomorphological areas of national and international interest on the Scottish seabed.

Evocative names such as the Devil's Hole, the Wee Bankie, the Pockmark complex and Pilot Whale Diapirs describe seabed features that include deep trenches extending for tens of kilometres; vast underwater ridges and mounds formed by the Ice Age glaciers; giant depressions on the sea floor; and submerged caves and extinct volcanoes.

It is the first time that marine geodiversity interests have been investigated at a national level. Together with detailed information on marine wildlife and habitats, the report will contribute to a national overview of the marine environment. The information will be used to advise Scottish Government and others on marine conservation and development, including international commitments to create a network of marine protected areas.

SNH's John Gordon said: "Scotland has responsibility for 13% of Europe's seas - they are a huge environmental, economic and recreational resource but most of us have little idea of the remarkable world that lies on the seafloor beneath the waves. The landforms there are every bit as impressive as anything we can see on land, and reflect the geological, glacial and marine processes that have shaped our seascapes and influenced the wildlife and habitats in our seas today."

He added: "We're increasingly aware of the significance of our underwater landscapes, not just for their intrinsic scientific value but also for their importance in supporting marine life, providing a diversity of wildlife habitats and including for fisheries. Many of our key fishing grounds are associated with underwater landforms, such as the Wee Bankie, Rockall and the Southern Trench."

"As well as identifying the key geodiversity features in Scottish waters, this report will help us to highlight what is so special about Scotland's marine environment and also to look after it, and the wildlife and industries it supports."

Many of the areas featured in the report also have the potential to deliver critical insights into important earth processes, including climate change and future sea level rise.

For more information go to www.snh.gov.uk/marine-protected-areas