Summary of processing methodology | Processing method(s):
1) ROV videos, still images, and samples:
- The first stage of video analysis is carried out onboard the research vessel, while the images from the ROV are viewed in real-time. Onboard scientists work as a team to note as many species as can be identified, as well as characteristics of the substrate, the dominant species, any visible impacts, and any other noteworthy observations. Still images are also taken of features of particular interest, to provide scientists with a visual record of the highlights of the ROV dive.
- If preliminary species identification is in doubt, or if species of particular scientific interest are encountered, the robotic arm of the ROV is used to collect samples, which are then photographed, preserved, identified, labelled and stored.
- Following surveys, scientists work with the recorded videos from the ROV dives: intermediate-definition videos that are filmed continuously and high-definition videos that are filmed when features of interest are encountered. Working with both videos, Oceana scientists view the entire footage from each dive, identifying all of the visible species, and recording these data in combination with the time, depth, and geographic coordinates of each observation, characteristics of the substrate, visible impacts, and any other noteworthy observations.
- Species identifications are reviewed by Oceana senior scientists. Doubts regarding identification are discussed amongst the scientific team and, if necessary, images and samples are sent to external experts to confirm identification.
2) SCUBA videos and still images:
- As with the videos and images filmed by the ROV, Oceana scientists work with the videos and still images produced by professional underwater photographers to identify as many species and habitat features as possible, and record these data in combination with the start and end coordinates of each dive, the time of each observation, characteristics of the substrate, visible impacts, and any other noteworthy observations. |