Environmental monitoring and assessment

How are the fish and the environment doing along our coasts and in our seas, lakes, and watercourses? The Department of Aquatic Resources (SLU Aqua) conducts environmental monitoring and assessment – we collect, interpret, and store data to build knowledge that supports the sustainable management of our environment and natural resources. We provide society with science-based information and advice.

Environmental monitoring and assessment

This is environmental monitoring and assessment!

From monitoring to analysis and advice – we track changes, explain them, and point the way forward.
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Persons taking sampling from a boat

Environmental monitoring and data collection

We collect data from lakes, watercourses, along the coast, and at sea – the foundation of our environmental monitoring and assessment and advisory work.

Databases and online services

Through our web services, you can access open, quality-assured fish data from our environmental monitoring.

Seagulls flying over sea

International scientific advice

We participates in scientific expert groups within organisations such as ICES and HELCOM, contributing knowledge to international decisions on sustainable management.

Explore some of our areas of expertise

  • American lobster

    The American lobster is an invasive species found in Sweden. It is important to prevent further spread, and all suspected findings should therefore be reported immediately to the Institute of Marine Research at SLU.

  • Crayfish

    Sweden has two freshwater crayfish species: the native noble crayfish and the introduced signal crayfish. Populations of the noble crayfish have declined dramatically in Sweden since the early 20th century, primarily due to the spread of crayfish plague.

  • eDNA

    Can a water sample show which species live in a lake? We test and develop the eDNA method as a complement to traditional environmental monitoring.

  • Fish genetics

    Genetic research provides valuable insights into how species evolve and how we can maintain healthy fish and shellfish populations.

  • Recreational fishing

    The Department of Aquatic Resources produces knowledge bases about the extent and importance of recreational fishing. This knowledge is needed as a foundation for ecosystem-based management and to achieve overarching sustainability goals.

  • Round goby

    The round goby is an invasive fish species spreading quickly and now established along parts of the Swedish coast. It may outcompete native bottom-dwelling species. Report any sightings via Artportalen or the Rappen app to help track its spread.