Broad-scale benthic community analysis in the Greater Minch Area (Scottish west coast) using remote and nondestructive techniques

A number of surveys were carried out in the Greater Minch Area to investigate the variety and distribution of benthic habitats and their resident faunal communities. RoxAnn(TM), an acoustic seabed classification system, was used to map the different substrata whilst the benthic communities were investigated using both photographic and underwater television techniques. A variety of substrata were identified ranging from bedrock and boulders to fine silty mud. Statistical analysis of the faunal data revealed the presence of four distinct benthic communities which could be related to the substratum type. The application of acoustic and underwater television techniques to broad-scale mapping of benthic communities is discussed.