Predicting the impact of regional scale events on the aquaculture sector (PRIMROSE; Interreg-Área Atlántica, 2018-2021)

Harmful algal blooms have spatial and temporal variability. European aquaculture needs an early warning system to better mitigate these events. The PRIMROSE project funded by the Interreg Atlantic Area program is based on current harmful algal bloom prediction systems developed through the “ASIMUTH” project funded and awarded by the 7th Framework Programme.

PRIMROSE will generate better forecasts of harmful algal blooms, microbial contamination risks and the effects of climate change in aquaculture production areas along the European Atlantic Arc from the Shetland Islands in the north (Scotland) to the Canary Islands in the south.

The project will use a combination of technologies including the OLCI system on board the new Sentinel 3 satellites which provide improved remote sensing resolution for aquaculture production areas in Ireland, Scotland, England, France, Spain and Portugal.

Transnational cooperation in PRIMROSE will allow partners to share good practices and methodologies, as well as the development of a common web portal for risk assessment in the region, including an easy-to-understand “traffic light” system for measuring risk that is useful for the industry.

More information about PRIMROSE at https://www.shellfish-safety.eu/