Benthic habitat mapping with multibeam sonar in Newman Sound, Terra Nova National Park, Newfoundland
The objective of this thesis is to characterise and map the benthic habitats of Newman Sound, a fjord in Terra Nova National Park, eastern Newfoundland. A multibeam sonar system was used to collect bathymetric and acoustic backscatter data. As backscatter is a function of seafloor substrate, interpr...
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| Format: | Thesis |
| Language: | English |
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Memorial University of Newfoundland
2006
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| Online Access: | https://research.library.mun.ca/10342/ https://research.library.mun.ca/10342/1/Copeland_Alison.pdf |
| Summary: | The objective of this thesis is to characterise and map the benthic habitats of Newman Sound, a fjord in Terra Nova National Park, eastern Newfoundland. A multibeam sonar system was used to collect bathymetric and acoustic backscatter data. As backscatter is a function of seafloor substrate, interpretations were made about the distribution of substrates, and these were tested by groundtruthing. Benthic sediments were collected using a Peterson grab and video images were collected with a tethered drop camera, SCUBA divers, and a remotely operated vehicle. A seismic sub-bottom profiler was also used. Nine substrates were identified, and each supported a distinct assemblage of invertebrates and algae, which were classified into eleven habitats. The distribution of substrates and habitats were mapped in a Geographic Information System (GIS). The results indicate that this methodology can effectively map fjord habitats and successfully identifies areas of conservation value. |
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