You’ve probably never even heard of an ocean quahog but these amazing creatures are just one of the species which will be protected if proposals for new Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) in and around Northern Ireland go ahead.
Ocean quahogs are large clams which can live for over 500 years. The population in the proposed Outer Belfast Lough MCZ is around 220 years old, surviving both World Wars and witnessing the launch of the Titanic!
Ocean quahogs live buried in the sediment with only their siphons extended to the surface to filter small pieces of food from the water above. They can be found in water up to 500m deep and are an important food source for cod.
Ocean quahog models (c) RSPB NI
The Department of the Environment is proposing three other local MCZs – in Carlingford Lough, at Waterfoot (off the Antrim coast) and off Rathlin Island.
These places are also home to a wealth of unique wildlife, from threatened birds like black guillemots to beds of seagrass, a flowering, fragile underwater plant which provides a home and nursery grounds for a host of marine wildlife.
Black guillemots. Credit Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)
As well as benefitting our environment, Marine Conservation Zones will also boost our economy. As the number of plants and animals increases, a 'spill over' effect from increased life inside the MCZ will help replenish the surrounding marine environment. For commercial species, this is a positive step towards more sustainable fishing. Healthy, undisturbed areas with abundant wildlife will also promote eco-tourism and recreational activities.
A recent report commissioned by the Northern Ireland Marine Taskforce (NIMTF) found that a functional network of marine protected areas in Northern Ireland could be the most valuable in the UK and provide as much as £54.5 million to the local economy.
You can help to make sure our seas are healthy and productive into the future by supporting the creation of these proposed Marine Conservation Zones. Visit www.nimtf.org for details of upcoming information roadshows and to respond to the consultation. You can also join in the conversation on social media using #SeaChangeNI.