……………were covered for Coastwise members by Portsmouth University researcher Liz James, and Plymouth University MSc student Rachel Edworthy.
Liz described her research on the effect of electromagnetic fields, typically surrounding subsea windfarm power cables, on crabs.
The effects are mainly observed in females, which are attracted towards the field but then show reduced mobility.
Needless to say, “more research is necessary”, focussed on the effects on reproductive biology, blood glucose and lactates, other crabs (Carcina maenas studied so far), and perhaps field testing.
Rachel covered her MSc topic of nudibranchs. She covered their morphology, feeding habits, and where o find them.
Two accomplished speakers, with interesting topics.
Crabs and Nudibranchs……