The pMPAs on the west coast of Scotland encompass a number of sea lochs, including Loch Sween, which forms the subject of the present investigation. The principal aim of the work was validation of historical records and determination of the current distribution of the MPA search features: burrowed mud, inshore deep mud with burrowing heart urchins and beds of maerl, flame shells and native oysters; as well as assessment of the condition of these features. A further objective was the validation of records of representative sublittoral mud and mixed sediment communities.
