Optical, active acoustics, and research fishing data on bottomfish abundance and biomass
were collected over predetermined grids to compare results of methodologies. Optical
data were collected using a baited stationary Botcam, a SeaBED AUV, and a BlueView
imaging sonar. Acoustics data were collected using a narrow-beam EK60 system operating
at 38, 70, 120, and 200 kHz frequencies. Research fishing was conducted using hook-and-line
on small boats. Simultaneous AUV & ROV with active acoustics were operated to obtain
target strength measurements of fish with known species and sizes. Bottomfishing off
the Sette were conducted simultaneously with acoustics data collection to further
groundtruth the acoustics data. |