A recent study by researchers at Wageningen University in the Netherlands indicates that offshore wind farms may be benefiting shark and ray populations. By analyzing environmental DNA from 436 seawater samples, the team detected the presence of several shark and ray species within and around four Dutch offshore wind farms: Borssele, Hollandse Kust Zuid, Luchterduinen, and Gemini. This non-invasive method offers a quick and cost-effective way to monitor marine life.
The study, published in *Ocean & Coastal Management*, suggests that the prohibition of trawling and other seabed-disrupting fishing practices within wind farm areas allows seabed ecosystems to recover. These stable habitats can then support vulnerable species like sharks and rays.
Researchers are currently investigating whether electromagnetic fields from underwater power cables affect shark and ray behavior, as these species use electrosensory perception for hunting and navigation. The findings suggest that offshore energy infrastructure could be integrated into marine conservation strategies, offering potential benefits for both biodiversity and renewable energy.