As you all know, Blue World Research Institute (BWRI) is a Florida-based non-profit that specializes in the use of science and technology to study both the marine environment and the animals that inhabit them. This new project will look specifically along the central Florida east coast to investigate the reefs, shipwrecks, and coastal habitat to assess the environment and the inhabitants to examine the stressors they face in order to better understand them and develop solutions that are viable and sustainable long-term.
Some of the specific questions we are asking are:
What is extent of the distribution for the invasive lionfish, especially at reefs and artificial structures (like shipwrecks) typically beyond the depth of recreational SCUBA divers? This information can be used to identify the magnitude of the spread of the invasive lionfish population and shared with state and federal fisheries managers to track the population and develop targeted culls to minimize the continued spread of the lionfish population.
What is the extent of marine debris at reefs and artificial structures (like shipwrecks) typically beyond the depth of recreational SCUBA divers? This information can be used to identify the magnitude of the marine debris issue, as well as conduct directed marine debris clean-ups for greatest impact to the environment and minimize the potential for marine animal bycatch in the marine debris.
Assessment of marine megafauna (i.e. marine mammals and large pelagic fish) using aerial and underwater drones. BWRI scientists hold federal Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and Endangered Species Act (ESA) permits to conduct research on marine mammals. By using new technological tools like small unmanned aerial systems (UAS or drones), as well as underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), you can assess individual animal health and overall visual condition. Taking this a step further, we have a specific drone equipped for precise photogrammetry of the animals.
By using LIDAR and a fixed camera lens aperture, you can measure the length and width of the animal to determine overall visual body condition. You can also use the small, non invasive drones to collect exhalate, or exhaled breath, to look at genetics contained within the sloughed cells in the sample. There is also research looking at stress hormones within the sample to obtain a better snapshot picture of the health of the individual at that time. This can be good for monitoring the health of an individual (and population by looking at enough individuals) over time.
Come along with us as we study the central Florida Atlantic coast using Science and Technology for Reef and Environmental Assessment and Monitoring (STREAM).