Connectivity of selected Priority Marine Features within and outwith the Scottish MPA network

This study investigates the degree of connectivity between known locations of two Priority Marine Features (PMFs), horse mussel beds and flame shell beds, both within and outwith the currently designated MPA network. Connectivity was investigated using a particle tracking model, forced by hydrodynamic model output at two different spatial resolutions, to explore how model resolution might influence the estimated degree of connectivity. Other areas of potentially suitable habitat for horse mussel beds and flame shell beds were identified by modelling, and the connectivity between these areas and the known beds was explored.