A groundbreaking study from Wageningen University & Research reveals that offshore wind farms in the Netherlands are not only sources of renewable energy but also potential safe havens for marine wildlife, including sharks and rays. Using environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, researchers identified multiple elasmobranch species living within these energy zones.
eDNA Confirms Presence of Sharks and Rays in Wind Farms
Published in Ocean & Coastal Management, the study marks the first time scientists have confirmed the presence of elasmobranchs—sharks, rays, and skates—within Dutch offshore wind farms using eDNA sampling. This innovative technique involves analyzing seawater for traces of DNA shed by animals, allowing researchers to detect species without capturing or visually observing them.
“We’re investigating whether these animals are using offshore wind farms as habitats or if they’re being displaced by them,” said Annemiek Hermans, Ph.D. candidate and lead researcher of the ElasmoPower project.
Five Shark and Ray Species Detected
Through a comprehensive field study, the team collected 436 seawater samples across four major Dutch offshore wind farms: Borssele, Hollandse Kust Zuid, Luchterduinen, and Gemini. The analysis revealed five different species of sharks and rays:
- Thornback ray (Raja clavata) – Found year-round in three wind farms
- Basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus) – Detected in winter at Hollandse Kust Zuid
- Starry smooth-hound (Mustelus asterias) – Present across multiple seasons
- Blonde ray (Raja brachyura) – Found in several sites
- Undisclosed fifth species – Details emerging as research continues
These discoveries suggest that offshore wind farms could offer seasonal refuge or even long-term habitat for various marine species.
Offshore Wind Farms as Marine Conservation Zones
One major reason wind farms may attract marine life is the ban on bottom trawling and other destructive fishing practices within these zones. This restriction allows benthic (seafloor) ecosystems to recover, making the environment more suitable for vulnerable species like elasmobranchs.
“Wind farms might serve as de facto marine protected areas,” noted Hermans. “But this benefit could be lost if we allow harmful fishing practices like trawling to return.”
eDNA: A Noninvasive Tool for Marine Biodiversity Research
Environmental DNA is revolutionizing marine ecology by offering a fast, affordable, and noninvasive way to monitor underwater species. “It’s like discovering a fingerprint in the ocean,” said Hermans. “Even if you don’t see the animal, the DNA proves it was there.”
This approach is especially useful in challenging environments like offshore wind farms, where direct observation is difficult.
Implications for Marine Spatial Planning and EU Policy
The study’s findings could play a crucial role in marine spatial planning and biodiversity policy across Europe. With EU regulations such as the Habitats Directive and the Nature Restoration Law promoting ecosystem conservation, integrating wind energy infrastructure with marine biodiversity strategies presents a promising opportunity.
The research is part of the six-year ElasmoPower Project, which also explores whether electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from underwater power cables affect shark and ray behavior. These species rely on electroreception to navigate and hunt, making them sensitive to changes in their environment. The project combines lab research with field monitoring using underwater cameras, sensors, and molecular tools.
Reference
Hermans, A. et al. (2025). Elasmobranchs in offshore wind farms. Ocean & Coastal Management. DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2025.107671