Mussel restoration, bioremediation and robots (5024)

Project description

Mussels are a critical component of coastal communities in temperate regions globally - creating spatially complex habitats which enhance biodiversity, act as a food source for a diverse array of species, and remove nitrogen and excess nutrients from estuarine and coastal systems. These bivalves also a key aquaculture species, representing the most sustainable source of farmed animal protein worldwide.

Nonetheless, since 2104 a significant decline in the abundance and distribution of mussels has been witnessed across Europe, with current numbers in many locations at a fraction of historic levels. Concerningly, this decline has coincided with levels of coastal pollution that are at an all time high (372,000 Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) events recorded in 2021), posing a significant health risk to those using these environments commercially or recreationally.

To date little concerted effort has been afforded towards the restoration of natural mussel beds - despite the high economic, ecological and environmental benefit this species group holds. This is in part due to a lack of quantitative data demonstrating the bioremediation capacity of mussels in this context, rendering this nature-based solution 'unproven', whilst complex mussel speciation and variable mussel settlement year on year add further challenges that must be overcome to ensure this vital marine resource is managed effectively and sustainably for maximum socio-economic benefit.

Aims and objectives

This project will explore whether mussel restoration offers a viable mechanism to remediate poor water quality and enhance ecosystem recovery in coastal waters of the UK. To achieve this the project will address the following objectives: generate the first quantitative data on the bioremediation capacity of mussels

develop an affordable/accessible tool for genetic assessment of mussel populations in the SW UK

establish a 3D hydrodynamic dispersal model for mussel larvae, and elucidate population connectivity patterns and spat for locations

validate identification of novel spat settlement sites with mix of fieldwork and use of submersible robots for intertidal/subtidal surveying (AlgaRover), in collaboration with The Exmouth Mussel Company and Seaweed Generation

develop a natural capital account for mussel beds, determining both current and projected future socio-economic value of this key marine resource. Training

The student will become part of a diverse and enthusiastic team, receiving training in animal physiology, husbandry, ecotoxicology, population genetics, 3D hydrodynamic modelling, and natural capital accounting, from experts in each respective field. They will also benefit from regular engagement with, and training from, industry (the Exmouth Mussel Company; Seaweed Generation) and policy (Devon & Severn Inshore Fisheries Conservation Association; Natural England) project partners, ensuring they receive training in a diverse range of highly employable skills.

Project structure

The studentship will be based at the University of Exeter, working in the state-of-the-art Aquatic Resources Centre, supervised by Dr Robert Ellis, Dr Ceri Lewis and Professor Jamie Stevens, with supervision from Dr Sian Rees (University of Plymouth; Socio-economics) and Professor Simon Neill (Bangor University; 3D hydrodynamic modelling), and regular engagement with policy (D&S IFCA; NE) and industry (The Exmouth Mussel company; Seaweed Generation) project partners.