Wightlink hosts University marine scientists researching Solent cuttlefish

University of Portsmouth marine scientists have partnered with Wightlink ferry company to find out more about cuttlefish in the Solent.

Postgraduate researcher Emma Chappell has installed strands of rope, weighted down by breeze blocks, into the seawater beneath the port structures and hopes cuttlefish will be encouraged to lay their eggs on the ropes. She is visiting the sites monthly throughout summer to check on the six nurseries.  

Cuttlefish are part of the same family of marine invertebrates as squid and octopuses and can change colour and texture to escape predators or attract mates. Their chalky internal shells can often be found washed up on beaches and are often used in budgie cages, as a calcium-rich dietary supplement for the birds.  

Many Wightlink staff remember seeing hundreds of cuttlefish in and around Portsmouth Harbour in years gone by, but numbers have fallen recently. 

“Cuttlefish are an iconic and important species in the Solent,” explains Emma. “Despite this, they don’t receive as much protection as other commercially valuable species found in the Channel and coastal stocks are exploited, often by offshore trawlers. In 2018, this was the fifth most valuable fishery in England, worth £14.9 million.

"The results of my research will help increase our knowledge about cuttlefish egg-laying behaviour on artificial structures, which could be helpful in decision-making about the management of cuttlefish in our waters.” 

Wightlink Chief Executive Keith Greenfield says: “We are always delighted to work with University of Portsmouth marine scientists to learn more about life beneath the waves and look forward to hearing updates on Emma’s valuable research.”