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Through the use of Georeferenced ROV (Remote Operated Vehical) imaging of the sea bottom we shall obtain detailed information about the area impacted by ghost nets. Hotspots, where a high density of nets is present, will be defined as focal areas for the project activity. Fish density and diversity will be assessed prior to net retrieval as well as density and diversity of sessile and mobile invertebrates. Discarded fishing gear on these hotsports will be retrieved and all nets and gear will be classified and weighed. All information will then be listed on a georeferenced data base. Fish abundance and diversity will be measured by strip transects following established protocols. Density and diversity of sessile organismes will be measured using quadrats and digital photography. After net retrieval surveys of fish and invertebrates will be carried out to asses the revovery of the subtidal community. |
