Effects of oil-industry operations on the macrobenthos of Sullom Voe

Abstract

SynopsisThe aims, methods and techniques of the macrobenthic monitoring programme in Sullom Voe and Orka Voe are described together with an analysis of the data obtained from surveys that began in 1978 and continue to the present. The distribution of the benthic macrofauna is discussed in relation to the sedimentological and hydrocarbon data obtained and compared with data from other Shetland waters. The macrofauna is considered to be typical of five of the six Facies used to describe the communities of the voes around Shetland. The possible effects of the terminal operations on the macrofauna are assessed and it is concluded that the disturbance noted to the macrofauna in Garths Voe, close to the diffuser at Calback Ness and in Orka Voe, essentially follows the same pattern seen in modifications to Shetland macrofauna that occurs where naturally occurring organic carbon enrichment exists.