He was killed shortly after taking the throne by Giric, also known as Gregory the Great, who had conspired with Aed's nephew, Eochaid.
Not much is known of Aedh, or even if he was actually the one named by Constantine to hold the throne. Both Giric and Eochaid ruled jointly following Aedh's death.
Aedh did marry at some point in his life, but the details, including the date and place of the marriage, and the name of his wife are not known. One son, Constantine, ruled later (900–942/43), while another son, Donald, became King of Strathclyde in 908.
Aedh died violently in 878 at Strathallan. He may have been buried at Maiden Stone in Aberdeenshire. He was succeeded under the Scottish tanistry system by his nephew, Eochaid.
Aed son of Mael Ruanaid, Béc son of Donn Cuan, king of Tethba, Cennéitig son of Lorcán, king of Tuadmumu, Gairbíth son of Lorcán, king of Fir Leamna, died.
Aed ua Mothráin, successor of Da-Sinchell, was fatally wounded and died.
Aed ua Flannacán, superior of Maen Coluim Chille, Ragnall son of Gofraid, king of the Isles, Conchobor son of Domnall, king of Loch Beithech, Mael Brigte ua Rímeda, abbot of Í, and Domnall son of Maicnia, superior of Mainistir, rested in Christ.