3-D analysis of behavioral responses of aquatic life using stereo video imagery

The authors tried observation using video cameras for the purpose of development of basic techniques of 3-D track analysis by stereo imagery. They observed dolphins at the observation windows on the poolside of an aquarium using two video cameras. Several white markers were painted on the dolphin´s skin. First scale calibration was executed. The reaction behavior toward feeding was recorded until a dolphin caught a food fish. From the result of 3-D track analysis by stereo imagery, 3-D positions and tracks of food and white markers were obtained precisely every moment. The authors calculated the velocity vector of a dolphin head towards food. In conclusion, a very narrow field of view was found. It is suggested that a stereo video system is useful for the underwater observation of aquatic life behavior if it is loaded into an ROV