An improved method for mapping oyster bottom using a global positioning system and an acoustic profiler
Date
1992
Authors
Simons JD
Soniat TM
Powell EN
Song J
Ellis M
Boyles SA
Wilson EA
Callender WR
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
A method for rapidly and relatively inexpensively mapping oyster (Crassostrea virginica) bottom is described. The method uses an acoustic profiler to differentiate substrate type, a fathometer to assess bottom relief and a global positioning system to accurately establish position. The method has the following desirable traits: can be performed from a small research vessel, usable in most weather conditions, requires only a two-person crew, rapidly discriminates bottom type while underway, usable in shallow (< 1 m) or deep (> 10 m) water, provides accurate and precise navigation. The method has been used successfully to map the oyster reefs and oyster bottom of Galveston Bay, Texas, an area of approximately 1000 km super(2)
Description
431-436
Keywords
acoustics, ASW,USA,Texas,Galveston Bay, Crassostrea, Crassostrea virginica, echosounder profiles, Galveston Bay, mapping, Navigation, O 5060 Aquaculture, oyster reefs, positioning systems, Q1 01566 Fishery charts,grounds and water areas, Q1 01583 Shellfish culture, Q2 02385 Hydrographic survey and cartography, Q3 01583 Shellfish culture, reefs, Texas, USA, water, Weather