Scientists in bid to save discarded scampi

Up to 45 per cent of undersized small lobsters, more commonly known as scampi, are thrown back after a catch and it is estimated that three-quarters of them die.

Scientists at the Scarborough campus are taking part in the European Union-funded project, led by NUIG Galway and the Orkney Fisheries’ Association.

They believe the mortality of the scampi is largely a result of poor handling and “inappropriate discard protocols”.

Diving scientists from the university’s Centre for Environmental and Marine Sciences plan to track the movements of scampi when they are released.

The university has been given £370,000 for the work.