Comparative Assessment of Visual Survey Tools

Marine scientists and resource managers have an increasing need for systematic information to guide management decisions related to benthic ecosystems. Such information requires visual surveys of seafloor habitats and associated species using undersea technologies. Availablem technologies range widely in cost and capabilities, and matching management needs with the evolving technologies can be a complex task. In order to stretch limited research and monitoring budgets, marine scientists, managers, and funding organizations need guidance for identifying the most effective and efficient observation technologies. We have conducted an effort to assess the capabilities, limitations, operational considerations, and cost of available technologies for visual surveys of benthic communities (i.e., fishes, invertebrates) and associated geologic and oceanographic conditions.

The emphasis is on mobile gear for visual seafloor surveys, and on field programs rather than image analysis or database management.  The visual survey tools considered in this assessment are: ROVs (both shallow and deep water), AUVs, occupied submersibles, camera sleds, critter cam, and scuba as used for systematic surveys. Camera system specifications are included, as this topic applies to all visual survey methods.  

Input has been gathered from the marine science community through an online community questionnaire and a national workshop.  The questionnaire produced over 115 responses from a broad group across North America.  The workshop was held on February 22-23, 2011 at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, with participation by 50 marine scientists, engineers, managers, and public policy specialists.  

The goal of this comparative assessment is to produce a reference document with specific, practical guidance on identifying factors that should be considered in choosing visual survey tools for different purposes. The assessment includes defining the most appropriate uses for these tools, and the tradeoffs among them. Gaps where new tools and technologies could reduce costs and/or improve data gathering capabilities also will be identified.  The results will be issued as a formal report.