Landers: Baited Cameras and Traps

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference paperChapterpeer-review

16 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The free-fall lander method is now routinely used to deliver baited cameras and traps to the deep seafloor to observe animals in situ or recover specimens to the surface. Baited camera landers operate autonomously under pre-programmed settings, typically with time-lapse still or video cameras to observe deep-sea fauna attracted to the vicinity using bait. The method relies on a basic delivery system comprising ballast weights to sink the lander, and a release mechanism to jettison the ballast and flotation to surface the lander after the experimental period. The scientific payload typically comprises one or more digital still or video cameras with other environmental sensors such as temperature, salinity, pressure or current meters. Baited traps are delivered to the seafloor in the same manner but the payload can comprise a diverse array of traps, designed specifically to target certain faunal groups such as fish or small invertebrates. Free-falling landers enable multiple systems to operate on the seafloor simultaneously and independently of one another. Furthermore, this method provides the opportunity to sample to full ocean depth (11 000 m) from relatively small research vessels. The basic design considerations and equipment configurations of baited camera and trap landers are discussed as well as a review of the types of data typically obtained using this method.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationBiological Sampling in the Deep Sea
PublisherWiley Blackwell (Physiological Reports)
Pages228-259
Number of pages32
ISBN (Electronic)9781118332535
ISBN (Print)9780470656747
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 8 Mar 2016
Externally publishedYes

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Landers: Baited Cameras and Traps'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this