A recent study by Wageningen University & Research confirms that offshore wind farms are providing unexpected sanctuary for marine life. The 2025 research highlights the potential of these structures to serve as crucial habitats for elasmobranchs, including various shark and ray species.
By analyzing eDNA (environmental DNA) in seawater, researchers detected the presence of these species in and around Dutch wind farms. A total of 436 seawater samples were collected from four offshore wind farms: Borssele, Hollandse Kust Zuid, Luchterduinen, and Gemini. The thornback ray (Raja clavata) was the most frequently observed species.
The study also identified basking sharks (Cetorhinus maximus) during winter in Hollandse Kust Zuid, offering valuable data on their seasonal movements. Other species detected include the starry smooth-hound (Mustelus asterias) and the undulate ray (Raja undulata). Trawling is prohibited within these wind farms, allowing benthic ecosystems to recover and creating a safer environment for vulnerable species.
This research is part of the ElasmoPower project, a six-year initiative led by Wageningen University & Research, which investigates the impact of electromagnetic fields from subsea power cables on elasmobranch behavior. The use of eDNA proves to be a promising, non-invasive method for monitoring marine ecology. These findings offer valuable insights for marine spatial planning and conservation efforts.