Supply of acoustic sensor tags for salmon smolts 2021

The COMPASS project is delivering a network of monitoring buoys across regional seas of Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and Western Scotland.  This project is supported by the EU INTERREG VA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and aims to development marine observational and data management capacity across the region.  The monitoring system will be equipped with the latest oceanographic sensors, acoustic recorders and advanced fish tracking technology.  The COMPASS researchers will develop long term monitoring strategies for highly mobile protected species such as marine mammal and salmonids.  As part of this work Agri-food and Biosciences Institute and Inland Fisheries Ireland are undertaking a wider programme of fish tagging.  

The current purchase of acoustic sensor tags by Inland Fisheries Ireland seeks to build upon successful research in 2019 & 2020. This work will involve tracking Atlantic salmon smolts from freshwater release and into the marine environment. Up to 60 depth and temperature tags are required (depending on unit price) with a pre-defined transmission interval (range 20-60s) to maximise data gained from migrating fish.