ABSTRACT This study presents the first long‐term, multi‐method monitoring of a known essential fish habitat (EFH), an egg‐laying site of the critically endangered flapper skate ( Dipturus intermedius ). For 31 months, a community science group conducted monthly SCUBA surveys recording the presence of D. intermedius egg cases within a defined area. Viable egg cases were carefully inspected, measured and then sampled non‐invasively for further genetic analysis. During the surveys, Seasearch Observer forms were completed, providing detailed information on the overall ecosystem. To complement diver observations, Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) deployments were undertaken, and an acoustic receiver was placed nearby. During the study period, 16 egg cases were laid within the designated site during spring, autumn and winter over consecutive years. Viable egg cases were confirmed to have hatched successfully across all four seasons. BRUVs were deployed 10 times, documenting 13 species, although no D. intermedius were observed. An acoustic receiver recorded multiple visits to the site by two adult male skates that had been tagged in the Firth of Lorn. This study demonstrates the value of community‐led monitoring in identifying and safeguarding critical reproductive habitats of D. intermedius , emphasising the importance of collaborative approaches between local communities, researchers and conservation bodies to ensure the survival of critically endangered species.
Smith et al. (Wed,) studied this question.