Current status: Answered by Gillian Martin on 10 February 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to protect the genetic, ecological and morphometric forms of brown trout (Salmo trutta) in Loch Laidon.
Loch Laidon, as a habitat for freshwater fish species, receives protection through its inclusion within the boundary of the Rannoch Moor Site of Special Scientific Interest / Special Area of Conservation and the Rannoch Lochs Special Protection Area. Outwith the designated sites series, water quality within Loch Laidon, and the natural processes which have led to the development or maintenance of ecological segregation within resident salmonid populations, is protected through River Basin Management Planning. Fish introductions to this remote waterbody are controlled through legislation which regulates the introduction of all species of freshwater fish within Scotland. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) prevents the unregulated introduction of fish, as well as other plants and animals, to areas outwith their native range.
SEPA have been made aware of the presence of pike in Loch Laidon and have undertaken initial sampling of environmental DNA to confirm the composition of the fish assemblage in the loch. They have begun exploring the feasibility of potential management responses with NatureScot.