Intro to Marine Research | Best Tools

What is Marine Science?
Conducting Marine Research
Underwater ROVs for Ocean Science
Benefits of ROVs for Aquatic Research
Marine Science ROV Bundles
Add-ons

What is Marine Science?

Marine science is a broad term referring to the research and interpretation of the marine biome. Spanning over three quarters of the Earth’s surface, the marine biome includes all the Earth’s oceans and marine organisms. These organisms can range from the largest of blue whales down to the tiniest of phytoplankton.

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. starfish

Physical Oceanography

Physical Oceanography refers to the study of the physical conditions of Earth’s oceans and their interactions with the atmosphere. This includes the monitoring of temperatures, salinity, density, circulation, and waves. Understanding the cause and effects of these parameters allows for scientists to make predictions about environmental changes. These predictions provide critical insights into events like hurricanes or climate change, and help call for adjustments in policies or procedures for ensuring long-term ocean health.

Geological Oceanography

Geological Oceanographers focus their studies beneath the oceans. Their research is oriented around the topography and structure of the seafloor. They analyze deep sea canyons, valleys, and mountains to investigate the formation processes. Their findings help modern scientists predict future adjustments to our oceans. As the broadest sub-category of marine science, geological oceanography can break down further into focuses of tectonic plates or paleoclimatology.

Chemical Oceanography

Chemical Oceanography is the study of chemical compounds within the Earth’s oceans, marine life, and seafloor. Whether organic or synthetic, the study of chemical reactions throughout the marine biome provides information about paleoclimatology, geochemistry of estuaries, and most notably, the carbon cycle. Understanding how carbon absorbs and reacts with the oceans is vital in understanding the current and future effects of CO2 pollution.

Biological Oceanography

Typically the first thing most people picture when they hear ‘marine science’, biological oceanography is the study of marine wildlife. Understanding how the physical, geological, and chemical systems of the ocean affect the ocean’s organisms aid in the preservation and management of aquatic plants and animals.

How Does Marine Science Affect Us?

While it may not be at the forefront of day-to-day life, marine science plays a pivotal role around the globe. Issues like growing demands for food, climate change, invasive species or endangerment would be virtually irreparable without marine science. Understanding each of the four main categories separately, as well as their interrelationships aid humanity in implementing innovative solutions.

Fish farm

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.

Conducting Marine Research

The Process

1. Pick a Topic

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.

2. Literature Review

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..

3. Field Research

Adequate preparation should allow for smooth sample collection. Ensure that enough information is collected for analysis to avoid planning a return.

4. Analyze Findings

Once the field work is complete, research can be continued in the lab. Analyzing the collected materials can take many forms depending on the topic of study. This can range from compiling a dissolved oxygen profile in water to observing mating habits of an animal during unseasonal temperatures. Regardless, the purpose of the analysis stage is to find trends and prove or disprove correlation.

5. Document

Now that all the research is finalized, work can begin on documenting the findings. A well written paper should consist of a clear thesis, thorough experimentation, proven analysis, and proper citations.

Common Tools

1. Collection Devices

Used for collection of animals, plant life, water, sediment, rocks, etc. , collection devices are a cornerstone of marine research. With most lab technology being difficult to transport, having quality methods of collection is imperative to further research.

2. Mapping Systems

Mapping systems are a common tool for physical or geological oceanographers. Seafloor mapping devices can be used in ranges between 10m and 5,000m to produce detailed depictions in a variety of settings.

3. Environmental Sensors

Environmental sensors can be used to track and report different factors across all areas of ocean science. Common trackables include temperature, oxygen, turbidity, chlorophyll, salinity, and light.

4. Profilers

Profilers are vehicles that carry and deploy sampling instruments or sensors vertically along a tether or track. Using a tether or track, the profiler gathers data throughout the entire water plane.

5. Moorings

A mooring refers to an instrument which has been anchored to the seafloor. Unlike profilers, moorings do not move and are typically used to collect data on water motions or to capture sediment or sunken particles.

6. Floats & Drifters

A float or drifter functions similarly to a mooring, however they are not anchored. A float is equipped with instruments and set to be buoyant at a desired depth. It will then travel freely with current, collecting desired data along a natural current. This information is useful for tracking how synthetic pollution travels through our oceans, or to collect sediment or microorganisms.

7. Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)

ROVs are robotic ‘drones’ which travel through water like a tethered submarine. These vehicles are equipped with cameras to provide clear visuals in difficult environments. Capable of diving hundreds and even thousands of feet depending on the class size, ROVs can be used for both shallow and deep sea research. Additionally, ROVs can be equipped with a variety of sampling, sensor, and manipulator tools for marine research.

Uses of Underwater ROVs for Ocean Science

underwater marine rov

Biodiversity Monitoring

An ROV is a powerful tool for monitoring marine ecosystems. Their silent thrusters and impressive depth ratings allow them to navigate complex environments without disrupting the wildlife. Capable of HD recording or imaging, these vehicles can provide researchers with crisp underwater visuals of marine life in minutes. In comparison to a dive team, the amount of equipment and setup time required is drastically less.

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.

Benthic Sampling / Sample Collection

Species monitoring and biodiversity studies require samples of the water surface and the ocean floor (the benthos) to collect organisms and examine if the environment is changing. ROVs can be effectively integrated with a variety of sampling tools. Rather than deploying a dive team or stationing a mooring or profiler, an ROV can be deployed and piloted directly to an area of interest. If equipped with sampling tools, sensors, or manipulators, ROVs can quickly and easily collect integral data.

marine rov collecting data

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.

Seafloor Survey

The ocean is currently being mapped using multibeam echo sounders. These are attached to vessels or Underwater Autonomous Vehicles (UAVs) and give a broad overview of how the ocean floor appears.These surveys look similar to a topographical map.

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.

Benefits of ROVs for Aquatic Research

Portable

Marine research projects generally take place at sea or in remote coastal areas. This makes equipment portability vital. Mini or Inspection class ROVs are built to be extremely portable in comparison to their work-class counterparts. These ROVs operate on battery power rather than topside generators, making them viable for remote operation. With models available boasting an impressive 8 hour battery life, researchers can expect a full day of operation on a single charge. Ranging in weight from around 20-50lbs, one operator can easily transport, deploy, and have an underwater visual or sample collection in minutes.

portable rov

Built to Work in Various Environments

With such a diverse range of marine topics, research can take place across the globe. ROVs are incredibly versatile across many different environments. Built to be durable against abrasions, sub-zero temperatures, and unpredictable currents, ROVs can be effectively used in many situations. Additionally, many ROVs are also designed to be cross-usable between salt and freshwater seamlessly, and just require a quick rinse after saltwater usage. This allows for a single unit to be used for studying oceans, lakes, rivers, and ponds alike. Pressurized to withstand immense depths, these vehicles can dive up to 1,000ft for deep sea research.

Quality Imaging

The image and video quality received from an ROV is extremely difficult to mimic via other methods. Utilizing multiple sets of integrated lights, as well as pan and tilt capabilities, allows ROVs to capture images at any angle. Easy connection to an SD card or external computer, makes storage no issue for long records of high-res videos or images. Additionally, with no human limitations, ROVs can drop to precise locations quickly and maintain depth for hours on end for long-term surveillance or sampling.

Easy to Operate

Unlike drones, ROVs do not require any licensing to operate. Since they operate attached to a tether, in the event of any malfunction they are easily retrievable. Intuitive controls and low-latency camera displays make operation easy to pick up. The handheld controllers are usually built to replicate that of a video game or remote controlled car, shortening the learning curve for many. Most operators state that they are comfortable using the vehicle within the first hour of operation.

rov screen

Add-ons

The add-ons available for ROVs are what set them apart as an innovative tool for marine science research. ROVs can be equipped with different sized samplers for water/sediment, water quality sondes, dissolved oxygen sensors, hydrophones, etc. , for custom builds to suit specific projects.

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 Best ROV Marine Science Bundles

DTG3 Package

DTG3 Package with Auxiliary lights 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:

PIVOT Expert Package

PIVOT Nav Right Face

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.

REVOLUTION NAV Package

Product-deep-trekker-revolution-x-rov

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.

Recommended Add-ons for Marine Science Research

Sonar

Imaging sonars can be intelligently added to the PIVOT body to provide clear visuals through the murkiest of conditions. Being mounted onto a tilt platform provides flexible control over a 97 degree plane effective scanning. Sonar also introduces the ability to map out the seafloor for geological analysis.

Laser Scaler

These are used to help gauge the size of a specimen, sediment, or any object sitting on the ocean floor. Set at 25mm apart, by using the laser scalers (that are mounted above the camera on the ROV), you are able to determine the size of an object for documentation.

Sediment Sampler

Using the Sediment Sampler, operators can pick up samples of sediment sitting on the ocean floor or lakebed. Bring up samples to run diagnostics and other tests. This feature is also great for the retrieval of any tiny objects. Note that this add-on requires the 2-Function Grabber as a prerequisite.

sediment sampler

Water Sampler

Similar to the Sediment Sampler, a Water Sampler retrieves samples of the water. Pilots can drive an ROV to desired depths of the lake/oceans for specific sampling. The vehicle can then quickly be driven back to the surface for analysis. This add-on also requires the 2-Function Grabber as a prerequisite.

Two-Function Grabber Arm

Put your DTG3 to work with a two-function grabber or manipulator arm. This is great for retrieving species samples, holding tools or deploying equipment. Both the PIVOT and REVOLUTION ROVs come pre-integrated with pan/tilt grabber arms.

Enhanced 4k Camera

Upgrade the ROV camera for unmatched quality in low light situations. Deep Trekker’s 4k camera also provides superior clarity in short focal lengths. This allows for enhanced clarity up-close for better identification of tiny targets.

USBL Positioning Systems

Gain awareness of the relative position of the ROV, as well as set custom waypoints on a GPS style map. Without the ability to utilize GPS underwater, ROVs rely on the use of sound technology for navigation and locating. For marine research, this can be used to generate locational data of wildlife or physical/geological landmarks, or mark areas of interest for repeated surveying.

usbl system

Dissolved Oxygen Sensor Kit

This compact sensor add-on integrates directly onto an ROV and controller with no additional equipment required. Monitor changes in oxygen levels through different trophic levels and record on a simplified spreadsheet. This add-on can be extremely useful for biological oceanographers examining wildlife or aquaculture sites.

Multiparameter Water Quality Analysis Sonde

Similarly to the dissolved oxygen sensor, this sensor collects and records data on water quality. As an ROV navigates through the water, different locations can be analyzed. For more comprehensive monitoring, Deep Trekker ROVs can be equipped with up to four sensors at one time. Full list of sensors here.

Deep Trekker Difference

Deep Trekker utilizes over a decade of underwater robotics experience to offer a variety of robust, field-tested ROVs. With three different models available in conveniently bundled packages, Deep Trekker also offers a-la-carte style customization to ensure each vehicle is specialized for your project.

Have questions about how an ROV can benefit your next research project? Get in touch with one of our industry experts today!