IMIS - Marine Research Groups

Migratory brown trout (Salmo trutta), commonly termed sea trout, have declined in many European regions over the last 20 ̶ 30 years and the likely causes appear to be complex and interlinked. In particular, large knowledge gaps in our understanding of their movements in the marine environment remain. This information is essential to identify bottlenecks in sea trout survival.

Previous research suggests that sea trout are spending longer periods of time in coastal areas where they are more likely to be exposed to stressors such as habitat disturbance and aquaculture. By understanding their movements in these important habitats, conservation efforts can be applied in targeted locations where they will be most impactful.

Acoustic telemetry is being used to track individual fish movements within inshore habitats and during their migrations. By combining tracking data with physiological and genetic analysis techniques, the data generated will provide a better understanding of the key drivers for different patterns of  behaviour, movement, and survival in both freshwater and marine environments,  helping to inform future management of these stocks.