Scots scientists bidding to find out more about how saltmarshes that fringe the coastline can help tackle climate change have created an app that allows enthusiasts and day-trippers to record vital information.
The findings will form the basis of a survey to estimate the stored carbon in the saltmarsh soil and show how, by capturing carbon and reducing the concentration of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide, the marsh is helping to limit climate change.
The Saltmarsh App was developed as a cooperation between St Andrews and Bangor universities and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.
Every marsh survey uploaded will help the scientists learn more about saltmarsh soils and how they are helping fight climate change.
Professor David Paterson of the University of St Andrews, the leader of a major research consortium behind the science used in the app, said: “Saltmarshes are vital coastal habitats that play an increasingly important role in protecting land from flooding during storm surges and in adapting to sea level rise.
"It’s important that we build a better database of information about these beautiful systems, so that we can protect and manage them for the future.”
The app will also encourage people to visit saltmarshes and gain more enjoyment from their visit, by providing a portable visual reference for the plants and animals found there.
It also guides the user through some simple plant community and soil identification steps, which will be fed back to the scientists.
Scientists know relatively little about the saltmarshes that fringe our coastline and those in wilder Scottish coasts are less well studied than those in other parts of the UK..
Marshes are washed by the tides and are criss-crossed by creeks and as well as being rich in wildlife they also help protect our coastlines against storms and floods.
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