Publication Details
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Characterization of deep-coral and sponge communities in the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary: Rittenburg Bank, Cochrane Bank, and the Farallon Escarpment
Author(s): Etnoyer, P.J.; G. Cochrane; E. Salgado; K. Graiff; J. Roletto; G. Williams; K. Reyna; J. Hyland
NCCOS Center: CCEHBR
Publication Type: NOAA Technical Memoranda
Journal Title: NOAA Technical Memorandum NOS NCCOS 190
Date of Publication: 2014
Reference Information:
32 pages
Keywords: deep sea cora, deep sea sponge, Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, Rittenburg Bank, Cochrane Bank, Farallon Escarpment
Abstract: Benthic surveys were conducted in the Gulf of Farallones National Marine Sanctuary (GFNMS) aboard R/V Fulmar, October 3-11, 2012 using the large observation-class remotely operated vehicle (ROV) Beagle. The purpose of the surveys was to groundtruth mapping data collected in 2011, and to characterize the seafloor biota, particularly corals and sponges, in order to support Essential Fish Habitat designations under Magnuson-Stevens Act (MSA) and other conservation and management goals under the National Marine Sanctuaries Act (NMSA).
A total area of 25,416 sq. meters of sea floor was surveyed during 34 ROV transects. The overall research priorities were: (1) to locate and characterize DSC and sponge habitats in priority areas; (2) to collect information to help understand the value of DSCs and sponges as reservoirs of biodiversity, or habitat for associated species, including commercially important fishes and invertebrates; (3) to assess the condition of DSC/sponge assemblages in relation to potential anthropogenic or environmental disturbances; and (4) to make this information available to support fisheries and sanctuary management needs under MSA and NMSA requirements.
Availability: Peter.Etnoyer@noaa.gov
Related Attachment: Download file (.pdf)
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