Observational platform in a mussel raft for long-term oceanographic monitoring and innovative aquaculture studies

Abstract

With over 3,300 mussel rafts moored along the Galician coast, these platforms serve as excellent sites for oceanographic obser- vation. They are situated in regions of high interest for aquacul- ture and their use minimize the environmental and visual impact of installing new structures in the sea. The importance of collect- ing oceanographic data is clear: it helps us understand ocean dy- namics, identify trends and events related to climate change or provide valuable information to enhance predictive models. But additionally, in this case, this platform also functions as a tool for innovative aquaculture research, integrating new marine technol- ogies with classic observational instrumentation.