In a global context, open ocean surveys have the potential to contribute to the regular monitoring of key mesopelagic fish species but can lack the procedures and technology necessary to provide meaningful, ongoing measurements. The potential of using existing survey activities for mesopelagic objective needs assessing, technology and methodologies require consideration, and limitations need to be addressed.
The aim of the Workshop on the development of practical survey methods for measuring and monitoring in the mesopelagic zone (WKMESOMeth) is to explore research currently underway in the mesopelagic zone, document existing surveys undertaking measurements and determine practical methods for meaningful monitoring programs from established survey programs.
Participants are encouraged to contribute to the following topics:
- Provide details on current open ocean surveys with the capacity to undertake, or currently undertaking acoustic measurements and biological sampling of animals within the mesopelagic zone
- Provide example data and research findings for discussion to determine what is achievable from described vessel, platform and vehicle based surveys for the development of mesopelagic biomass monitoring programs
- Development of methods to monitor the abundance mesopelagic fishes given the complexity involved and equipment currently in use
- Determine the minimum requirements in terms of resources, hardware, additional research knowledge, analysis methodology, and sampling equipment required for meaningful abundance measurements, and determine the components of the mesopelagic zone to which this applies
The workshop will be hosted at the Marine Institute, Galway, Ireland, 27-28 April 2019.
Contact the Chairs for more information.
