Protocols for Monitoring with Digital Video and a SONAR-based Locating System (FISC)

Publisher: USGS | Science Center: Florida Integrated Science Center (FISC, Gainesville) | Format: URL

fl.biology.usgs.gov — Coral Reefs in the Caribbean and western Atlantic are deteriorating in response to hurricanes, coral diseases, anchor damage, sedimentation, and other stresses. USGS biologists at the Caribbean Field Station are documenting the current status of coral reefs and the effects of some of these stresses. The primary objective of this issue overview is More... Coral Reefs in the Caribbean and western Atlantic are deteriorating in response to hurricanes, coral diseases, anchor damage, sedimentation, and other stresses. USGS biologists at the Caribbean Field Station are documenting the current status of coral reefs and the effects of some of these stresses. The primary objective of this issue overview is to detect change in benthic cover over time using a statistically rigorous protocol. From the cover page: "Developed by USGS scientists based at the Virgin Islands Field Station, this resource, which includes two integrated protocols for monitoring coral reefs, was established to collect information on the structure and condition of coral reefs. It was also established to document changes in coral reef ecosystems over time, including shifts in abundances of major reef organisms." Less...