Work

Rapid surveying of benthopelagic ecosystems with a towed mini-ROV

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Surveying benthic communities has historically relied on snorkel or SCUBA, but these methods are labour-intensive, inefficient (∼1000 m 2 per day covered for one dive pair) and depth-limited (<30 m depth). Here we detail a remote method using a towed mini-ROV that combines the depth capabilities and endurance of towed cameras with the flexibility and manoeuvrability of SCUBA and snorkel. Towed mini-ROV allows over 10 km of transects or 38,000 m 2 of benthic surveys per day, produces data that can be geo-referenced, allows measurement of organisms using orthomosaics, can include physical data such as depth and temperature, and can operate from depths of 2–60 m without any gear changes. This setup requires only modest modifications of readily available equipment, and is relatively low-cost given the time and labour efficiencies gained. We provide some examples of the types of data that can be produced (video, imagery, spatial layer), as well as the sort of coverage that is realistic using real survey data obtained from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Results demonstrate this approach could be used on a large scale to rapidly survey benthic environments. It could be further improved by using a more hydrodynamic ROV design, and a more streamline pipeline that integrates data sources. Use of underwater positioning systems could improve spatial parameters, lasers could improve measurement accuracy, and additional cameras could increase spatial coverage, but at the cost of added complexity and hydrodynamic drag. • Describes a towed min-ROV method for remotely surveying aquatic ecosystems. • Huge efficiency gains compared to normal underwater survey approaches. • Produces geo-referenced data for large-scale surveys. • Can access shallow waters (∼2 m) to mesophotic depths (∼60 m) without gear changes.

Source: Marine Environmental Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2025.107122

Authors: V. Raoult, K. McSpadden, T.F. Gaston, J.Y.Q. Li, J.E. Williamson

Institutions: Griffith University, Macquarie University, University of Newcastle Australia

Language: English

Topic: Underwater Vehicles and Communication Systems

Subfield: Ocean Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life below water

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,440