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The study of marine science provides humans with a better understanding of fish/plant populations, ocean climate changes, pollution, and biodiversity. Since the topic of study is so vast, marine science is broken out into four main categories to allow for increased specialization.
Aquaculture research conducted by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans serves as an excellent example of how marine science is applied to solve current issues. This project focused on collecting environmental samples to determine what sort of species were living near fish farms, what their genetic makeup was, and how this group of species is potentially changing. Lastly, they wanted to test how far away from the site these species were living in relation to new aquaculture sites.
As an extremely resource-sustainable method of meat production, advances towards more efficient aquaculture is imperative for meeting future food demands. Marine research studies like this are the key to developing effective fish farms while limiting impacts on the natural environment.
The first step in any research project is identifying a topic. Ensuring the topic is relevant and has feasibly acquired information or related literature is essential for a successful study. Looking for unanswered questions within your field can help identify potential topics.
After confirming a topic and conducting preliminary research, it’s time to identify the core supporting materials. For marine science research, this often involves getting out in the field. Collecting samples, using sensors to monitor environments, observing wildlife behaviors, etc., are all part of this process. Determine the length of the trip, tools needed, location(s), number of people required, etc..
Common use cases for an ROV include monitoring species for population health, investigating invasive species, or analyzing behavior patterns. In aquaculture settings, ROVs can provide information on stock health and feeding habits. Additionally, ROVs are effective tools for surveying aquatic plant life like coral reefs or seaweed beds.
If done on regular intervals, this environmental data can be compiled to track progression of carbon levels, water temperatures, salinity, phosphorus levels, etc. This can be effectively used for planning new aquaculture sites, conservation efforts, or for better understanding of marine ecosystem relationships.
Once UAVs finish their routes, they are retrieved and the footage is reviewed. Areas of interest are pinpointed and can quickly be inspected by an ROV. The vehicles can be equipped with positioning systems, high definition cameras and sonars to quickly map and characterize different regions of lakes, rivers and oceans.
Read our full article on ROVs for marine research here.
For even further customization, ROV owners have created and integrated their own designs to fit their needs. Shawn Robinson, the lead researcher in a 2017 climate change study took it upon himself to design a 3D printed device capable of holding six syringes in a circle. Using an ROV’s manipulator arm, the vehicle was used to dive to a desired depth and take six simultaneous water samples. The benefit of this custom design was to have multiple samples from the same time and area for cross referencing.
Learn more about how ROVs allow researchers to gain valuable insight underwater.
The DTG3 is the most cost effective ROV in Deep Trekker’s lineup. Perfect for quick eyes underwater or low-budget projects, the DTG3 houses a full HD camera and is capable of diving 650ft. Weighing less than 19lbs, the vehicle is incredibly portable for remote research and is usable in both salt and freshwater. Here are some recommended DTG3 add-ons for marine research:
Deep Trekker’s PIVOT ROV upgrades from the two thruster design of the DTG3 to a six thruster body. This enables operators to perform lateral and vertical movements without adjusting the vehicle pitch, resulting in more control through current and smoother operation during filming. Additionally, the PIVOT’s design is capable of diving up to 1,000ft, as well as housing more advanced add-ons for imaging sonars or positioning systems.
For a comprehensive package with built in positioning systems, the REVOLUTION NAV is an excellent option. The most powerful, intelligent, and stable ROV from Deep Trekker, the REVOLUTION is capable of operating in currents up to 2.5 knots. Included in the NAV package is a laser scaler, 260 degree panning grabber arm, as well as USBL and DVL sensors for position tracking. Utilizing the new Mission Planner feature from Deep Trekker, these sensors will also enable the REVOLUTION to operate on completely autonomous routes.
Have questions about how an ROV can benefit your next research project? Get in touch with one of our industry experts today!
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