Isla Mar Research Expeditions Guide to Services | Page 10

Project & Field Assistance
W ill you be conducting field work in Puerto Rico? You will want someone who knows
the area and the customs. We can offer our services to your projects. We provide help
with dive logistics, experimental design and data collection.
Underwater Visual Census
We have extensive experience conducting underwater visual census (UVC) for fish and
benthic communities on coral reefs, mangrove and seagrass habitats. We have
performed these services for local environmental projects, including the biannual
NOAA National Coral Reef Monitoring Project.
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Reef Fish Visual Census Coral & Habitat Monitoring
Aside from traditional UVC belt transects, we are also
trained in the cylindrical survey method of RVC. This
method is applicable to surveying commercially important
species. We have performed these surveys most recently to
monitor fish assemblages in marine protected areas. We monitor coral health and assess habitat characteristics
for local projects around Puerto Rico. We can assist with
quadrats and transect surveys to determine coral and other
benthic cover. This can also involve manta towing to
locate marine debris for removal from coral habitats.
Benthic Invertebrate Surveys Education & Outreach
We are experienced with surveys for benthic
invertebrates such as conch and lobsters. These surveys
typically require more involved dive logistics and the use
of special equipment like underwater scooters. One of our favorite aspects of conducting field work is the
opportunity to share the end product with the public. We
have coordinated outreach events to spread awareness of
invasive species and promote marine protected areas.
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