Seabed Survey Experience

The data our team collects from a visual survey is often required in project evaluation processes to determine the consequences of anthropogenic activities on the marine environment. Our team of scientists and divers monitor a variety of seabed habitats using inter-comparable and non-destructive methods. This data can be used in descriptive statistical analysis and usually contributes to the development of comprehensive GIS habitat maps.

Visual surveys provide a comprehensive analysis of seabed areas where more traditional, but invasive sampling (grabs or dredges) might not be possible due to either physical restrictions, or the ecologically sensitive nature of a survey site. Such surveys often require repeat visits to the same location and habitat along with comprehensive documentation of environmental conditions and composition in the form of video capture. Records and return visits contribute to easily detecting changes in species composition that would otherwise be difficult to achieve.