United Kingdom - September 12, 2025 Isles of Scilly, UK – New underwater footage reveals remarkably healthy marine ecosystems surrounding the Isles of Scilly, offering a glimpse of how sea life can flourish in well-protected UK waters. Despite widespread damage to the UK’s seas from destructive fishing, pollution, and climate change, the Isles of Scilly appear to defy these trends. Baited underwater cameras recorded nearly 12,000 animals across 64 species, including sharks, lobsters, octopuses, and bluefin tuna. “The richness and variety of marine life around the Isle of Scilly is wonderful to see,” said Dr Owen Exeter from the University of Exeter. He noted that large populations of commercially targeted species and the return of bluefin tuna underline the ecological importance of the area. Researchers describe these waters as one of the UK’s most ‘near-natural’ marine ecosystems. The archipelago benefits from limited human activity and well-managed fisheries, protecting complex seabed habitats from destructive practices such as bottom trawling. The study highlights the effectiveness of Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVs) for monitoring marine protected areas. “These camera systems allow us to track changes in species diversity and abundance over time, giving us vital evidence on whether conservation measures are working,” said Dr Kristian Metcalfe, Associate Professor in Marine Conservation Science. Jules Webber of Natural England added that the BRUVs provide a low-cost, non-invasive method for long-term monitoring, helping to inform future conservation strategies. The research contributed to the Isles of Scilly being designated as an Important Shark and Ray Area (ISRA), reflecting the region’s ecological significance for multiple shark species and supporting long-term protection efforts.