As part of the ANERIS project, two Underwater Vision Profilers (UVP6) have been operational at key EMSO observatories, continuously monitoring marine particles and plankton populations. Their current deployment includes:
- EMSO-OBSEA Site: Operational for 238 days at a depth of 17 meters.
- EMSO-Smartbay Site: Operational for 81 days.
Biofouling Prevention and Maintenance
The UVP6 sensors are equipped with advanced UV-C light systems to combat biofouling on critical components, such as camera portholes and light units. This innovative measure has proven effective, supported by regular monthly cleaning by the OBSEA team to maintain optimal performance.
UVP6 deployed @17m off OBSEA (2024/11/05)
Camera porthole of the UVP6 sensor (top right) and UV-C light (bottom left) (2024/11/05)
Light units of the UVP6 sensor (top right) and UV-C light (bottom left) (2024/11/05)
Data Insights: Particles and Plankton Monitoring
- Particle Abundance: Data on small (60-128 µm) and large particles (2.05-4.1 mm) have been collected since February 2024, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of these marine ecosystems.
- Image Analysis: High-quality images of plankton and fish are being stored and processed using EcoPart and EcoTaxa web applications. These datasets will support ongoing analyses in the coming months and years.
Abundance of the small particles and plankton (60-128µm) at EMSO-OBSEA since the deployment last February 2024.
Abundance of the large particles and plankton (2.05-4.1mm) at EMSO-Vilanova since the deployment last February 2024.
Abundance of the small particles and plankton (60-128µm) at EMSO- Smartbay since the deployment last February 2024.
Abundance of the large particles and plankton (2.05-4.1mm) at EMSO-Smartbay since the deployment last February 2024.
Stay tuned for more findings as this data helps advance our understanding of marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.
For additional information, visit the ANERIS project website.
Authors: Marc Picheral (IMEV-MER) / Ikram Bghiel (UPC)