The IHF Fototrawl: experiences with a television-controlled, deep-sea epibenthic sledge

We describe a towed deep-sea epibenthic sledge equipped with epibenthic and suprabenthic nets and photographic and television cameras. The online television system monitors the performance of the gear on the sea floor and provides additional information on the density and behaviour of large epibenthic and benthopelagic organisms. First experiences with the instrument are presented.