Research Institutions

Using bait to attract wide-roaming wildlife into the survey platform, our bespoke Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) systems are tailored to perform under the high current speeds encountered in the North East Atlantic. Rated to a depth of 250 meters, they are a rapid and cost effective tool for surveying marine biodiversity, with dual independent lights facilitating round the clock surveying.

Our stereo-imaging techniques are optimised for moderate turbidity levels, allowing our analysts to take accurate measurements through a technique known as photogrammetry without removing specimens from their habitat. Covering both the demersal and pelagic regions, our BRUVs can provide reliable data on:

• Species Inventories
• Accurate Measurements and Biomass Estimates
• Relative Abundances
• Species Interactions
• Temporal Changes and Patterns
• Growth Rates and Overall Condition

FjordStrong provides an affordable, zero-impact, reliable solution for measurements of marine specimens in-situ. Using our stereo-imaging cameras, specifically designed to perform in areas of moderate turbidity such as the North East Atlantic, our analysts generate 3D point clouds of the target. With a proven high accuracy at ranges up to 6 metres we offer our clients non-extractive in-situ tool as an alternative to other destructive, lethal and costly methods. Reliable measurements of wildlife can be converted into biomass estimates, condition factors, and determination of developmental stages. Similarly, multi-annual measurements can be used to estimate growth rates, ideal for fragile species such as hard corals.

Climate change is already impacting the environmental conditions in the ocean which in turn has seen changes in ecosystems, species, habitats, tourism, coastal communities and fisheries. Understanding our oceans, and the variables that affect our oceans’ biodiversity are fundamental for protecting and supporting recovery. Accurate and reliable environmental data facilitates understanding and monitoring the drivers of change. At FjordStong, we have the flexibility to integrate a full suite of oceanographic and environmental measurements into your project, including temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH and turbidity.

FjordStrong is deeply committed to Elasmobranch Conservation, employing advanced techniques to study and safeguard these vital components of the oceanic web. Drawing on the expertise of the QUB Marine Lab, Regional Flapper Skate Working Group and Elasmobranch Strategy Group, our team comprises specialists in elasmobranch fisheries interactions, bycatch reduction and monitoring, distribution modelling, and acoustic tagging and biotelemetry. Our commitment extends beyond assessment to proactive strategies, ensuring sustainable practices that protect elasmobranch populations and enhance our understanding of these sentinel species and their crucial role in our oceans.

At FjordStrong, we understand the importance of thoroughly testing, validating, optimising, and improving new approaches to ensure their reliability and effectiveness. Our team is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation, using cutting-edge technology and methodologies in the marine environment. Our expertise and experience includes ground truthing methods such as eDNA sample collection, video survey for acoustic detections, elasmobranch tagging, and identification of egg-laying grounds. FjordStrong will not only keep pace with the latest advancements but also contribute to shaping the future of sustainable marine solutions with passion and expertise.

Accurate ecological models can inform decision-making and marine management, and collecting reliable and relevant data is the fundamental building block to develop robust ecological models. Our team are trained in advanced video technology and zero-impact methodologies, ensuring precise and comprehensive data acquisition. At FjordStrong we have a track record of generating appropriate input data for models, including but not limited to habitat suitability models, species distribution model, allometric morphological models and oceanographic models. FjordStrong provides the essential data for ecological models that stand up to scrutiny, empowering your organisation with data-driven insights for effective environmental stewardship.

Identification and understanding of the potential impacts of human activities on marine wildlife is critical for responsible and sustainable choices. FjordStrong specialises in conducting thorough impact surveys in diverse marine environments. As a team, we have conducted surveys to evaluate the impacts of wind farms on wildlife, assess the effects of noise and pollution on the environment, and delve into considerations related to proximity to stressors. Our expertise extends to evaluating changes in fisheries management measures and understanding the effects of Marine Protected Area (MPA) closures on the surrounding ecosystem and biodiversity. By employing state-of-the-art video technology and zero-impact methodologies, FjordStrong can assess the effects of projects on marine ecosystems and gain valuable insights that empowers sustainable decision-making.

Nature-based solutions present a holistic strategy for tackling environmental challenges, and FjordStrong is committed to incorporating these solutions into marine consultancy. Our team understands the inherent potential of nature-based solutions in cultivating resilience and sustainability in the marine environment and harnessing nature to address both the climate and biodiversity crisis. At FjordStrong, we can integrate nature-based solutions into your unique project needs, from habitat restoration to sustainable blue growth. By taking inspiration from nature, mitigation and adaptive strategies can not only safeguard marine biodiversity, but human well-being and enhance industry sustainability.