Aim:
This student project is part of the new Sejerø Seascape project: link , link.
Within the Sejerø Seascape Project, rocky reefs are being deployed to restore habitat complexity, enhance marine biodiversity, and improve the ecological condition of Sejerø Bay. More specifically, this study aims to 1) examine fish abundance in the Sejerø Bay and 2) document fish abundance related to restored rocky reefs.
To give an impression of the fieldwork involved, you can explore videos from similar studies here: video, video .
Background:
Sejerø Bay, west of Copenhagen, has historically been known for its rich fisheries. Only a few decades ago, the bay was abundant in both fish density and diversity. Historically, Sejerø Bay has been an area rich in rocky reefs. This caused industrial interest in stone extraction from the seabed. In the 1960’s, stone extraction in the bay increased and became a productive industry. Stone extraction reduced the availability of rocky reefs in the area. Thus, fewer rocky reefs are available now, leading to absent or scarce habitats for fish species like the Atlantic cod.
In many Danish coastal areas, fish abundance and diversity are declining. Among various environmental factors, the presence of accessible rocky reefs may play an important role. The Atlantic cod is a key species in stone reef restoration, representing a higher trophic level and serving as an important indicator of restoration success.
Content:
The restored reefs are expected to support fish abundance and diversity. This study will use underwater video footage to 1) conduct fish surveys to examine fish abundance and diversity across the Sejerø Bay, 2) deploy rocky reefs in the Sejerø Bay, and 3) document fish abundance related to restored rocky reefs.
To examine the rocky reef restoration effects on fish abundance, a Before-After Control-Impact (BACI) approach will be performed. The study will specifically test the hypothesis: rocky reef restorations enhance fish abundance and diversity.
Data collection will involve video footage recorded by underwater GoPro cameras positioned on the seabed. Two types of seabed conditions will be covered: 1) newly restored rocky reef sites and 2) sandy seabed function as control sites.
Data analysis will include statistical comparisons between control areas (sandy seabed) and restored reef areas (rocky seabed), along with the BACI approach.
Student engagement may include several aspects of the project: mapping historic reef locations, communicating with local stakeholders, deployments of underwater cameras, and analysing video footage quantitatively.
Duration:
The duration of a student project may range between 3-12 months. For each student, the project is tailored to the student’s specific needs and interests. This ensures that the student collects needed ECTS points, finishes the project on time etc.
A standard project could include: A) Field work: 1-2 months, B) Video analyses: 1-2 months, C) Statistical analyses: 1 month, D) Write up: 1-2 months. Projects up to 12 months are feasible by combining different topics.
Students may have their work location based either at DTU Aqua in Kongens Lyngby (north of Copenhagen) or at DTU Aqua in Silkeborg (in Jutland). During fieldwork accommodation is often provided by DTU.
Student benefits:
By joining this project, you will learn how to deploy and operate underwater video equipment and/or conduct snorkeling transects for scientific surveys. You will develop strong analytical skills and gain valuable experience in collecting biological data, for example by identifying observed marine species.
You will contribute to expanding the knowledge base on reef restoration and aquatic ecology, thereby supporting informed decision-making and policy development. In addition, you will collaborate with local NGOs and stakeholders, gaining practical insights into coastal restoration methods and their ecological outcomes.
Finally, the project will expand your network significantly, because you will get a chance to meet many other people involved in the Sejerø Seascape project, including WWF, University of Southern Denmark, Aarhus University and local municipalities (e.g. Kalundborg Municipality).
Contact:
Supervisor:
Email: < e-post borttagen av säkerhetsskäl >
Phone: 00 45 93 51 16 63
Co-supervisor:
Email: < e-post borttagen av säkerhetsskäl >