Use of Submersibles in Marine Biological Surveys

Data from biological observers, video cameras, and Benthos cameras were collected simultaneously during a submersible survey of rocky outcrop areas at Tanner and Cortes Banks. Based on a comparison of the number of identifiable species of fish, algae, and invertebrates recorded by each technique, it was determined that direct observation by scientists resulted in a significantly greater number of species recorded than by video or Benthos cameras alone. Considerations related to the use of submersibles, scuba divers, and remote sampling techniques in marine biological surveys are discussed.