A Comparison of Stereo-video Techniques for Assessing Fish Communities On and Off Spatially Limited Habitats

Abstract

This research explored different stereo-video sampling techniques for assessing fish communities off and on spatially limited habitats. Stereo-ROVs were identified as the most appropriate tool for such applications due to their ability to measure fish in-situ using a defined sampling area. Stereo-ROVs were used to describe the high abundance and biomass of both commercially and recreationally important species on pipelines compared to the surrounding natural reef and soft sediment habitat.