Characterization of organism-sediment relations using sediment profile imaging: an efficient method of remote ecological monitoring of the seafloor (Remots TM system)

A benthic successional model allows interpretation of structures observed in sediment profile images. From these structures, temporal and spatial changes can be deduced in both benthic habitat and its associated fauna. The instrument used for in situ remote monitoring is the Rhoads-Cande profile photographic camera or its updated version, the video REMOTS (Remote Ecological Monitoring Of The Seafloor) system. Sediment profile imaging has been used to characterize an estuarine pollution gradient in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island and to monitor the 'August Effect' on benthic faunal dynamics in New Haven Harbor, Connecticut (USA). The ability of the profile camera to map rapidly patterns of seafloor disturbance and subsequent faunal change is described for a 1.5 mi² area near the Thimble Islands, Long Island Sound, Connecticut. We discuss the potential application of the REMOTS system for efficient monitoring of dredge-spoil activities and as a reconnaissance mapping tool for detecting change in benthic habitats in the region of outer continental shelf drilling fields.