MTU and UCC collaborate in study of critically endangered flapper skate

Munster Technological University (MTU) has participated in the scientific response to the discovery of two critically endangered flapper skate fish (dipturus intermedius) that washed ashore in Co Mayo in May of this year.

The stranding, reported by members of the public and relayed to the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group’s stranding network, provided a rare opportunity for marine researchers to collect essential data on one of the most threatened elasmobranch species in Europe.

Marine scientists, including Louise Overy, wildlife biology lecturer at MTU and vice chair of the Irish Elasmobranch Group (IEG), collaborated with Dr Catherine Waters and Alan Drumm of the Marine Institute, along with Dr Danielle Orrell of University College Cork (UCC) to conduct analysis and research.

The flapper skate is the largest skate species in the world, reaching up to 2.5 metres.

Ms Overy said: “Elasmobranchs around the world are facing mounting pressures, with over one-third of species now considered at risk of extinction. Addressing this crisis requires a broad, collaborative and sustained global effort. The event hosted here at MTU highlights the importance of scientific collaboration and knowledge-sharing.”

Dr Orrell from UCC added: “The recent stranding of these two skates presents a unique opportunity to gather samples and insight into these incredible animals found in Irish waters. The findings will provide valuable insights into the physiology and ecology of this critically endangered species.”

The dissections were done at MTU’s field laboratory with analysis conducted by the Marine Institute, UCC and MTU.