Seafood-related research at UMBSM has mainly addressed shellfish issues, particularly those of langoustine (Nephrops norvegicus). The biology and fishery of this key commercial species has been a focus for over 30 years, including work with Fisheries Research Services and international partners to refine ways of assessing stocks. In addition to investigating various aspects of the trawl fishery for Nephrops, attention has also been given to the creel fishery and research is ongoing with the MSC-certified Torridon Nephrops fishery. In recent years, UMBSM has joined the University of Glasgow in a productive Research Partnership with Young's Seafood to look at product quality issues, from the sea to the plate.

Other species to receive attention are edible crabs and velvet swimming crabs, squat lobsters, common prawns, scallops, razor clams, native oysters and Atlantic salmon, with research including patterns of exploitation, effects of climate change on catch, stock characteristics, sustainable fishing, and the identification and protection of nursery areas. Aquaculture-related research includes courses for salmon farmers to help them identify potential hazards caused by phytoplankton blooms.

This research ensures that Scotland continues to offer environmentally sustainable, top quality seafood to local and international markets.

http://www.gla.ac.uk/Acad/Marine/