OCS Study 

MMS 2008-009 

 

Investigations of Chemosynthetic 

Communities on the Lower Continental 

Slope of the Gulf of Mexico 

Interim Report 1 

U.S. Department of the Interior

Minerals Management Service 

Gulf of Mexico OCS Region 
OCS Study 

MMS 2008-009 

Investigations of Chemosynthetic 

Communities on the Lower Continental 

Slope of the Gulf of Mexico 

Interim Report 1 

Authors 

James M. Brooks 

Charles Fisher 

Harry Roberts 

Bernie Bernard 

Ian MacDonald 

Robert Carney 

Samantha Joye 

Erik Cordes 

Gary Wolff 

Elizabeth Goehring 

Prepared under MMS Contract 

1435-01-05-CT-39187 (M05PC00018) 

by 

TDI-Brooks International Inc. 

1902 Pinon Drive 

College Station, TX 77845 

Published by 

New Orleans 

June 2008 U.S. Department of the Interior 

Minerals Management Service 

Gulf of Mexico OCS Region 
iii 

DISCLAIMER 

This report was prepared under contract between the Minerals Management Service (MMS) and 

TDI-Brooks International Inc (TDI-BI). This report has been technically reviewed by the MMS, 

and it has been approved for publication. Approval does not signify that the contents necessarily 

reflect the views and policies of the MMS, nor does mention of trade names or commercial 

products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use. It is, however, exempt from review 

and compliance with the MMS editorial standards. 

REPORT AVAILABILITY 

Extra copies of this report may be obtained from the Public Information Office (Mail Stop 5034) 

at the following address: 

U.S. Department of the Interior 

Minerals Management Service 

Gulf of Mexico OCS Region 

Public Information Office (MS 5034) 

1201 Elmwood Park Boulevard 

New Orleans, Louisiana 70123-2394 

Telephone: (504) 736-2519 or 

 1-800-200-GULF 

CITATION 

Brooks, J.M., C. Fisher, H. Roberts, B. Bernard, I. McDonald, R. Carney, S. Joye, E. Cordes, G. 

Wolff, E. Goehring. 2008. Investigations of chemosynthetic communities on the lower 

continental slope of the Gulf of Mexico: Interim Report 1. U.S. Dept. of the Interior, 

Minerals Management Service, Gulf of Mexico OCS Region, New Orleans, LA. OCS 

Study MMS 2008-009. 332 pp. 

COVER ART 

Photographs from chemosynthetic communities visited during the program.
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

 Page 

List of Figures............................................................................................................................... ix

List of Tables ..............................................................................................................................xiii

Overview ........................................................................................................................................ 1

Background ................................................................................................................................... 1

Purpose........................................................................................................................................... 3

Preparation.................................................................................................................................... 3

Sampling Procedures.................................................................................................................... 5

CTD and Associated Hydrography............................................................................................. 5 

Photographic Imaging................................................................................................................. 5 

Seafloor Imaging..................................................................................................................... 5 

Time-Lapse Camera................................................................................................................ 6 

Navigation................................................................................................................................... 7 

Trawling...................................................................................................................................... 9 

Box Coring.................................................................................................................................. 9 

ADCP.......................................................................................................................................... 9 

Mapping ...................................................................................................................................... 9 

Microbiology/Biogeochemistry .................................................................................................. 9

Water Column Biogeochemistry............................................................................................. 9 

Sample Collection and Analysis ......................................................................................... 9 

Sample Inventory.............................................................................................................. 10 

Sediment Biogeochemistry ................................................................................................... 11 

Sample Collection and Analysis ....................................................................................... 11 

Sample Inventory.............................................................................................................. 13 

Microbiology and Molecular Biology .................................................................................. 16 

Sample Collection, Inventory, and Discussion................................................................. 16 

RADARSAT Synthetic Aperture Radar Images....................................................................... 18 

SAR Image Acquisition and Aanalysis................................................................................. 23 

Data Acquisition ............................................................................................................... 23 

Automated Slick Detection Methods................................................................................ 24 

Education Outreach Summary.................................................................................................. 27

Trawls and Box Cores - RC Cruise........................................................................................... 29

Trawl / Box Core Narrative ...................................................................................................... 29 

Beam Trawl Narrative – DCCC Cruise.................................................................................... 31

Beam Trawl Sampling #1 ......................................................................................................... 31 

Beam Trawl Sampling #2 ......................................................................................................... 31 

Beam Trawl Sampling #3 ......................................................................................................... 32 

Beam Trawl Sampling #4 ......................................................................................................... 32 

Beam Trawl Sampling #5 ......................................................................................................... 33 

Beam Trawl Sampling #6 ......................................................................................................... 33 

v 
Beam Trawl Sampling #7 ......................................................................................................... 34 

Beam Trawl Sampling #8 ......................................................................................................... 34 

Beam Trawl Sampling #9 ......................................................................................................... 34 

Beam Trawl Sampling #10 ....................................................................................................... 35 

Macrofauna ................................................................................................................................. 37

Microbiology/Biogeochemistry .................................................................................................. 55

Water Column Biogeochemistry............................................................................................... 55 

Results and Discussion ......................................................................................................... 55 

Sediment Biogeochemistry ....................................................................................................... 56 

Results and Discussion ......................................................................................................... 56 

Salinity and pH ................................................................................................................. 56 

Methane Concentrations ................................................................................................... 56 

Microbiology and Molecular Biology ...................................................................................... 63 

Photo Surveys.............................................................................................................................. 65

Image Analysis Progress........................................................................................................... 70 

Down-looking Camera.......................................................................................................... 70 

Complete Counts................................................................................................................... 71 

Reconnaisance Cruise – Site Characterization and Evaluation ............................................. 75

Keathley Canyon 243................................................................................................................ 75 

Keathley Canyon 333................................................................................................................ 76 

Keathley Canyon 216................................................................................................................ 77 

Keathley Canyon 129................................................................................................................ 78 

Green Canyon 852 .................................................................................................................... 81 

Green Canyon 767 .................................................................................................................... 83 

Green Canyon 812 .................................................................................................................... 84 

Green Canyon 817 .................................................................................................................... 85 

Green Canyon 600 .................................................................................................................... 86 

Green Canyon 296 .................................................................................................................... 87 

Mississippi Canyon 981............................................................................................................ 87 

Mississippi Canyon 462............................................................................................................ 89 

Mississippi Canyon 640............................................................................................................ 91 

Atwater Valley 340................................................................................................................... 92 

Atwater Valley 342................................................................................................................... 94 

Green Canyon 868 .................................................................................................................... 97 

Walker Ridge 269/270 .............................................................................................................. 99 

Walker Ridge 268 ................................................................................................................... 101 

Dive Summary – DCCC Cruise ALVIN ................................................................................. 103

DCC Cruise – Site Characterization....................................................................................... 105

Atwater Valley 340................................................................................................................. 106 

Geologic Summary of Atwater Valley 340 ........................................................................ 106 

Site Summary - Atwater Valley 340................................................................................... 109 

Green Canyon 600 .................................................................................................................. 117 

vi 
Site Summary - Green Canyon 600 .................................................................................... 117 

Summary of Dive Observations.......................................................................................... 117 

Geology............................................................................................................................... 117 

Biology................................................................................................................................ 118 

Mosaic................................................................................................................................. 119 

Walker Ridge 269 ................................................................................................................... 122 

Geologic Setting for Walker Ridge 269.............................................................................. 122 

Keathley Canyon 243.............................................................................................................. 127 

Geologic Summary of Keathley Canyon 243 ..................................................................... 127 

Site Summary - Keathley Canyon 243................................................................................ 128 

Biology................................................................................................................................ 128 

Green Canyon 852 .................................................................................................................. 129 

Geologic Setting - Green Canyon 852................................................................................ 129 

Site Description - Green Canyon 852 ................................................................................ 130 

Mississippi Canyon 853.......................................................................................................... 141 

Geologic Summary of Mississippi Canyon 853 ................................................................. 141 

Site Summary - Mississippi Canyon 853............................................................................ 141 

Summary of Dive Observations.......................................................................................... 141 

Biology................................................................................................................................ 141 

Mississippi Canyon 640.......................................................................................................... 144 

Geologic Setting - Mississippi Canyon 640........................................................................ 144 

Alaminos Canyon 818............................................................................................................. 148 

Geologic Summary of Alaminos Canyon 818.................................................................... 148 

Site Description - Alaminos Canyon 818 ........................................................................... 148 

Summary of Dive Observations.......................................................................................... 148 

Biology................................................................................................................................ 148 

Mosaic................................................................................................................................. 150 

Alaminos Canyon 601............................................................................................................. 153 

Geologic Setting - Alaminos Canyon 601 .......................................................................... 153 

Site Summary - Alaminos Canyon 601 .............................................................................. 153 

Alaminos Canyon 645............................................................................................................. 159 

Site Description - Alaminos Canyon 645 ........................................................................... 159 

Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) ............................................................................... 165

References.................................................................................................................................. 167

Imaging ................................................................................................................................... 167 

Microbiology/Biogeochemistry .............................................................................................. 167 

Appendix A – RECONNAISSANCE Cruise .......................................................................... 169

Appendix 1 - Cumulative Event Log...................................................................................... 169 

Appendix 2 - Site Occupation Log ......................................................................................... 171 

Appendix B – DCCC Cruise .................................................................................................... 173

Appendix 1. Navigation Target Positions............................................................................... 173 

Appendix 2. Niskin Log.......................................................................................................... 183 

Appendix 3. CTD Log. ........................................................................................................... 185 

vii 
Appendix 4. Hard Corals. ....................................................................................................... 185 

Appendix 5. Hydrocarbon Analysis Samples ......................................................................... 186 

Appendix 6. Authigenic Carbonate Samples.......................................................................... 187 

Appendix 7. Core Log............................................................................................................. 188 

Appendix 8. Trawl Log........................................................................................................... 193 

Appendix 9. Samples Collected ATLANTIS / ALVIN.......................................................... 196 

Appendix 10. Record of Dive Activities................................................................................. 225 

Appendix C – AUV February 2007 ......................................................................................... 241

Appendix 1. AUV Specifications and Logs............................................................................ 243

Appendix 2. AUV Maps......................................................................................................... 307

viii 
LIST OF FIGURES 

 Page 

Figure 1.

................................ 6 

(A) Rendering of the drift camera system with components labeled. (B) 

DCS being deployed from GYRE during the survey cruise.

Figure 2. Rotary time-lapse camera and recovery platform................................................. 7 

Figure 3.

................................... 8 

This Kongsberg HPR-410 system and WinFrog data logger collected 

detailed position information for the vessel and the DCS.

Figure 4.

........................................................................ 19 

Image swaths covered by the RADARSAT satellite are shown over the 

northern Gulf of Mexico region.

Figure 5. SAR image collected 22 May at 19:02 local time.............................................. 22 

Figure 6.

.............................................................................................................. 23 

SAR and related oceanographic data assembled for study of natural seeps 

in study region. (A) Image collected by Radarsat on May 23 2006. The full 

image shows multiple slicks in a rotating gyre. (B) Sea-surface height 

anomalies from the same data show presence of a warm-cored eddy (Eddy 

Xtreme). (C) Geostrophic currents generated by Eddy Xtreme and related 

features.

Figure 7.

.......................................................................................................... 24 

 Summary figure showing spatial coverage for complete inventory of SAR 

images from the Gulf of Mexico (~31,000 images) that have been collected 

since 1992.

Figure 8.

........................... 25 

Automated slick detection with use of texton filter array. (A) SAR image 

obtained on 12 May 2006 shows numerous slicks near the GC852 site. (B) 

The outlines of these slick targets were extracted from the original image 

by iterative edge detection routines using the (C) filter array.

Figure 9. Partial photomosaic of five images from AT-340 of a large mussel bed........... 38 

Figure 10.

........................................................................... 45 

Phylogenetic tree of Siboglinid Polychaetes (tubeworms) in the genus 

Lamellibrachia including the new GoM undescribed species and a new 

cryptic species that did not appear morphologically distinct during the 

collection and sorting process.

Figure 11.

.............................. 47 

Density, biomass, diversity and evenness of the communities sampled 

using quantitative collections devices vs depth of the sites.

Figure 12.

................................................................. 48 

Nonmetric multidimensional scaling (MDS) ordination of mussel (m) and 

tubeworm (t) communities based on Bray-Curtis similarity of fourth-root 

transformed relative abundance data.

Figure 13.

............................................................................................... 49 

Proportion of biomass in each trophic level in quantitative samples from 

2006 field season.

Figure 14.

........................................................................................................... 52 

Species accumulation curves for mussel pot and mussel scoop samples 

showing the number of new species sampled with each additional 

collection.

Figure 15.

................................................................. 53 

Nonmetric multidimensional scaling (MDS) ordination of mussel 

communities sampled with the mussel pot (m) or mussel scoop (s) 

sampling device based on Bray-Curtis similarity of square-root 

transformed relative abundance data.

Figure 16. Water column biogeochemistry at GC852. ........................................................ 55 

Figure 17. Sediment biogeochemistry from MC853 (1 microbial mat)............................. 58 st

ix 
Figure 18. Sediment biogeochemistry from MC853 (2 microbial mat)............................ 58 nd

Figure 19. Sediment biogeochemistry from GC600 (oily sediment)................................... 59 

Figure 20. Sediment biogeochemistry from GC600 (clam bed).......................................... 59 

Figure 21. Sediment biogeochemistry from WR269/270 (pogonophoran meadow)........... 60 

Figure 22. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC645 (pogonophoran meadow)................... 60 

Figure 23. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC601 (control site). ..................................... 61 

Figure 24. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC601 (brine lake bottom). ........................... 62 

Figure 25. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC601 (lake outer edge; urchins).................. 62 

Figure 26. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC601 (lake inner edge; barite)..................... 63 

Figure 27. Route map for Legs 1 (――) and 2 (――) of the Reconnaissance cruise......... 70 

Figure 28. Example images analyzed for complete coverage.............................................. 72 

Figure 29. Representative photography from KC243.......................................................... 75 

Figure 30. Survey results from KC243 station. ................................................................... 76 

Figure 31. Representative photography from KC333.......................................................... 77 

Figure 32. Survey results from KC333................................................................................ 77 

Figure 33.

......................................................... 78 

Representative photography from KC216. Left shows brine flow with 

bacteria and possible carbonate crust. Right shows solitary tube worm 

attached to carbonate outcrop (see arrow).

Figure 34. Survey results from the KC216 station. ............................................................. 79 

Figure 35. Representative photography from KC129.......................................................... 79 

Figure 36. Survey results from KC129 station. ................................................................... 80 

Figure 37. Representative photography from GC852.......................................................... 81 

Figure 38. Survey results from GC852 station. ................................................................... 82 

Figure 39. Representative photography from GC767.......................................................... 83 

Figure 40. Survey results from GC767 station. ................................................................... 83 

Figure 41. Representative photography from GC812.......................................................... 84 

Figure 42. Survey results from GC812 station. ................................................................... 84 

Figure 43. Representative photography from GC817.......................................................... 85 

Figure 44. Survey results from GC817 station. ................................................................... 85 

Figure 45. Representative photography from GC600.......................................................... 86 

Figure 46. Survey results from GC600 station. ................................................................... 86 

Figure 47. Representative photography from GC296.......................................................... 87 

Figure 48. Survey results from GC296 station. ................................................................... 88 

Figure 49. Representative photography from MC981. ........................................................ 88 

Figure 50. Survey results from MC981 station.................................................................... 89 

Figure 51. Representative photography from MC462. ........................................................ 90 

Figure 52. Survey results from MC462 station.................................................................... 90 

Figure 53. Representative photography from MC640. ........................................................ 91 

Figure 54. Survey results from MC640 station.................................................................... 92 

Figure 55. Representative photography from AT340.......................................................... 93 

Figure 56. Survey results from AT340 station..................................................................... 94 

Figure 57. Representative photography from AT342.......................................................... 95 

Figure 58. Survey results from AT342 station..................................................................... 96 

Figure 59. Representative photography from GC868.......................................................... 97 

Figure 60. Survey results from GC868 station. ................................................................... 98 

Figure 61. Representative photography from WR269/270.................................................. 99 

x 
Figure 62. Survey results from WR269/270 station. ......................................................... 100 

Figure 63. Representative photography from WR269/270................................................ 101 

Figure 64. Survey results from WR268 station. ................................................................ 102 

Figure 65. Site locations of ALVIN dives. ........................................................................ 104 

Figure 66. Hard urchins were abundant in portions of the AT340 site.............................. 107 

Figure 67. Extensive carbonate pavements indicate protracted seepage. .......................... 108 

Figure 68.

........................................................................ 109 

Surface brine flows generate extensive pools and channels that support 

mussel aggregations at AT340.

Figure 69. This down-cam image shows two species of seep mussels in a dense bed...... 110 

Figure 70. Anthropogenic debris like this monofilament line was common at AT340..... 111 

Figure 71. Dive 4173 on 5/9/2006 at an average depth of 2,216 m................................... 112 

Figure 72. Dive 4179 on 5/15/2006 at an average depth of 2,200 m................................. 113 

Figure 73. Dive 4180 on 5/16/2006 at an average depth of 2,200 m................................. 114 

Figure 74. Dive 4181 on 5/17/2006 at an average depth of 2,200 m................................. 115 

Figure 75. Dive 4183 on 5/19/2006 at an average depth of 2,175 m................................. 116 

Figure 76.

.................................................................................................................... 118 

Massive carbonates and sparse tubeworms are characteristic of the GC600 

site.

Figure 77.

... 119 

Varieties of soft corals were seen on some of the carbonate boulders, but 

no significant aggregations were observed during the two dives at the site.

Figure 78. Dive 4174 on 5/10/2006 at an average depth of 1,250 m................................. 120 

Figure 79. Dive 4184 on 5/20/2006 at an average depth of 1,250 m................................. 121 

Figure 80.

.......................................................................................................... 123 

Although there were extensive areas of seep-affected sediments at the 

WR269 site, development of tubeworm or mussels aggregations was very 

restricted.

Figure 81.

................................................ 124 

Surface sediment in the regions of seepage featured a rich assortment of 

pogonophorans, holothurans, and crustaceans.

Figure 82. Dive 4175 on 5/11/2006 at an average depth of 1,950 m................................. 125 

Figure 83. Dive 4191 on 5/26/2006 at an average depth of 1,950 m................................. 126 

Figure 84.

................................................................................................... 127 

Relatively few carbonate structures were observed, indicating little flux of 

hydrocarbons.

Figure 85.

..................... 128 

KC243 site had relatively little development of chemosynthetic 

communities, comprising sparse mussel beds for the most part.

Figure 86. Dive 4176 on 5/12/2006 at an average depth of 1,610 m................................. 129 

Figure 87.

...................................................... 131 

Chemosynthetic communities at the GC852 site comprised a series of 

features situated along a 1.5 km ridge line.

Figure 88.

.......................................................................................... 132 

 Northern portion of GC852 with massive carbonates colonized by 

scleractinian corals.

Figure 89.

................................................................................................... 133 

Soft corals included living octocoral polyps and dead skeletons colonized 

by zooanthids.

Figure 90.

.................................................................... 134 

Tubeworm colonies at GC852 were generally sparse assemblages attached 

to carbonate and cemented shells.

Figure 91. Dive 4177 on 5/13/2006 at an average depth of 1,450 m................................. 135 

Figure 92. Dive 4185 on 5/21/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m................................. 136 

Figure 93. Dive 4186 on 5/22/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m................................. 137 

Figure 94. Dive 4187 on 5/23/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m................................. 138 

Figure 95. Dive 4189 on 5/24/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m................................. 139 

xi 
Figure 96. Dive 4190 on 5/25/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m................................. 140 

Figure 97. Dive 4178 on 5/14/2006 at an average depth of 1,070 m................................. 143 

Figure 98. Sediments away from the brine pools were carpeted with pogonphora........... 145 

Figure 99.

.................................................................. 146 

Extensive brine pools and flow channels supported bacterial mats and 

mussel colonies at the MC460 site.

Figure 100. Dive 4182 on 5/18/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m................................. 147 

Figure 101.

.......................................... 149 

AC818 site featured extensive bacterial mats and hard urchin aggregations, 

but relatively few and isolated tubeworm clusters.

Figure 102. Tubeworms at the AC818 site were stained to study their growth rate............ 150 

Figure 103. Dive 4192 on 5/27/2006 at an average depth of 2,740 m................................. 151 

Figure 104. Dive 4195 on 5/30/2006 at an average depth of 2,740 m................................. 152 

Figure 105.

........................................................................................................... 154 

Shoreline of a brine pool at AC601, which was approximately 150 m in 

diameter.

Figure 106.

.......................................................................................................... 155 

Two species of shrimp and epifaunal octocorals on an Escarpia tube worm 

at AC601.

Figure 107.

................................................................................... 156 

Chemosynthetic fauna at AC601 was restricted to isolated aggregations of 

tubeworms and mussels.

Figure 108. Dive 4193 on 5/28/2006 at an average depth of 2,330 m................................. 157 

Figure 109. Dive 4196 on 5/31/2006 at an average depth of 2,330 m................................. 158 

Figure 110.

........................... 159 

Study site with marked tubeworms from 1993 was re-sampled during the 

final dive (4197). This specimen is dead, but a second individual was still 

alive and will provide a 13 year data point for growth rates.

Figure 111.

.................................................................................................................. 160 

Mussels at AC645 were coated with a white precipitate not seen at other 

sites.

Figure 112. Community at AC645 was sampled by ALVIN divers in 1993....................... 161 

Figure 113.

.......................................... 161 

Soft coral colonies were observed on the rocky slope to the north of the 

main sampling station and marker field at AC645.

Figure 114. Dive 4194 on 5/29/2006 at an average depth of 2,240 m................................. 163 

Figure 115. Dive 4197 on 6/01/2006 at an average depth of 2,200 m................................. 164 

xii 
LIST OF TABLES 

 Page

Table 1. Summary of water column sampling program ................................................... 10 

Table 2. Summary of samples used for geochemistry...................................................... 14 

Table 3. Summary of samples used for microbial rate assays.......................................... 15 

Table 4. Inventory of Sediment Microbiology Samples................................................... 18 

Table 5. Inventory of satellite images obtained................................................................ 20 

Table 6. Summary of trawling and box core activities..................................................... 29 

Table 7. Samples from beam trawl #1.............................................................................. 31 

Table 8. Samples from beam trawl #2.............................................................................. 32 

Table 9. Samples from beam trawl #3.............................................................................. 32 

Table 10. Samples from beam trawl #4.............................................................................. 33 

Table 11. Samples from beam trawl #6.............................................................................. 33 

Table 12. Samples from beam trawl #7.............................................................................. 34 

Table 13. Samples from beam trawl #8.............................................................................. 34 

Table 14. Samples from beam trawl #9.............................................................................. 35 

Table 15. Samples from beam trawl #10............................................................................ 35 

Table 16. Quantitative community samples obtained during the 2006 cruise.................... 40 

Table 17. Species sampled at all sites visited during the 2006 cruise. ............................... 41 

Table 18. Photo survey summary (BIV – Bottom In View)............................................... 65 

Table 19. Stations occupied during Legs 1 and 2 of the Reconnaissance Cruise............... 66 

Table 20. Sites selected for photo survey by Harry Roberts. ............................................. 67 

Table 21a. Operational sequence – Leg I............................................................................. 68 

Table 21b. Operational sequence – Leg II............................................................................ 69 

Table 22. Summary results for exhaustive image analysis................................................. 73 

Table 23. Progress toward completion of image analysis of the down-looking camera 

images collected with ALVIN in the May 2006 cruise...................................... 74 

Table 24. Dive summary .................................................................................................. 103 

Table 25. Sites characterized listed in chronological order.............................................. 105 

xiii 
1 

OVERVIEW 

This document represents TDI-Brooks International Inc. First Interim Report for contract 

number: 1435-01-05-39187, issued by the U.S.Department of the Interior, Minerals Management 

Service “Investigations of Chemosynthetic Communities on the Lower Continental Slope of the 

Gulf of Mexico” (CHEMO III). This report compiles detailed information regarding operational 

procedures, stations occupied, sampling activity and preliminary results. The information in this 

report is a compilation of two cruises. The Reconnaissance Cruise was conducted on the TDIBrooks research vessel R/V GYRE from 11 to 25 March 2006 and was the initial cruise 

conducted for this contract. The cruise was completed in two week-long legs with an interim port 

call in Venice, LA. Leg I (11-18 March) was dedicated to drift camera work to survey the seabed at selected sites. Leg II (19-25 March) involved both drift camera and trawling/box core 

work efforts. The cruise mobilized and embarked from Freeport, TX. The objective was to 

provide timely input for the site selection process for the subsequent ALVIN expedition (May 

2006). The Deep Chemosynthetic Community Characterization Cruise was conducted on the 

Wood’s Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) research vessel R/V ATLANTIS and the ALVIN 

Deep Submergence Vehicle (DSV) from 7 May – 2 June 2006, and was the second cruise 

conducted for this contract. The cruise mobilized and embarked from Key West, Florida, and demobilized at Galveston, Texas. Results reported were obtained by analysis of the sampling 

information and data during the cruises and immediately afterward. Results could be revised. In 

February 2007, sampling sites were mapped in great detail using the C&C Technologies 

Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) in preparation for intensive sampling planned for the 

2007 field season. The AUV is equipped with instrumentation for collecting high-resolution 

multibeam bathymetry, chirp sonar subbottom profiles, and side-scan sonar swaths. AUV data 

sets for AT340, GC852, WR 269, and AC 601 were acquired. This report is a preliminary 

product of the contract. 

BACKGROUND 

The largest oil reserves in the continental United States are found in the Gulf of Mexico. The 

Minerals Management Service (MMS) is responsible for overseeing the responsible extraction of 

these natural resources. By the early 1980s, energy companies had developed the technology to 

explore and extract oil and gas in waters up to 1,000 m deep. 

During the mid to late 1980s, MMS contracted with the Geochemical and Environmental 

Research Group (GERG) at Texas A&M University (TAMU) to collect animals from areas of 

the deep sea floor associated with active oil and gas seeps. The original expectations of both the 

MMS and the scientists involved were that few animals would be found associated with these 

“toxic” sea floor environments, and that perhaps the few that were found would be unhealthy at 

best. However, when the trawls came to the surface over Bush Hill a site that became one of the 

best studied seep sites in the world, they were so full of animals the nets could only be brought 

on board with the help of an extra crane. In addition, the animals were not the usual fauna of the 

deep Gulf of Mexico. The nets were full of giant tubeworms and mussels, which had only 

recently been discovered at deep-sea hydrothermal vents in the Pacific Ocean. Since that time 

similar (but different) cold-seep and hydrothermal-vent communities have been discovered in 

many different geological settings in the world’s oceans. 
2 

Over the last 20 years these animals and communities have been studied at moderate depths in 

the Gulf of Mexico (GoM), along with the geology, geochemistry, and microbiology that allows 

them to flourish. As a result, the hydrocarbon seep communities in less than 1,000 m on the 

Upper Louisiana Slope of the Gulf of Mexico, are the most intensively studied and most 

understood of any deep-sea cold-seep communities in the world. The basic biology of the 

dominant animals, their life histories, and the biodiversity and biogeography of the seep and 

coral communities on the Upper Louisiana Slope is now understood. The successional processes 

that lead to the eventual development of coral communities on carbonates created during periods 

of active hydrocarbon seepage is understood. Also discovered are some amazing communities, 

such as the ice worms that inhabit methane ice and the mussels that ring the Brine Pool NR-1. 

Meanwhile, energy companies have continued to develop the technology to extract oil and gas 

from deeper and deeper water and now have the capability to drill oil wells in all water depths in 

the GoM Outer Continental Slope. Although several GoM hydrocarbon seep sites at depths 

greater than 1,000 m have been visited by scientists, only a single site has been the focus of more 

than a few exploratory dives. This site, at 2,200 m in Alaminos Canyon, has lush communities of 

tubeworms and mussels that are reminiscent of the shallower sites that are well known. However, 

the underlying geology and almost all of the species present are different. Preliminary studies 

indicate that the structure of the communities associated with the tubeworms and mussels is also 

quite different. The normal “background” fauna are different at this depth, and different patterns 

of interaction between these animals and the seep specific animals are expected. Not only is the 

ecology of this deep community not understood, at this point the types of communities that exist 

at depths between 1,000 and 2,200 m are not known. Advances in this understanding and 

knowledge are the goal of this contract. 
3 

PURPOSE 

The primary purpose of this research is to discover and characterize the sea floor communities 

that live in association with hydrocarbon seepage and on hard ground in the deep Gulf of 

Mexico. The sites studied are in areas energy companies will soon drill for oil and gas. 

PREPARATION 

Preparation for this program began in the fall of 2005, when Harry Roberts began to study a 

variety of types of information that would help discover new hydrocarbon seep and hard-ground 

communities in the deep Gulf of Mexico. Information was gathered from thousands of cores 

collected by the TDI-Brooks International, Inc. group, satellite images of persistent oil slicks on 

the surface of the Gulf, and extensive collections of geophysical data and maps of the sea floor 

that were made available for this project by the Minerals Management Service. Fourteen sites 

were identified with a high potential to host lush chemosynthetic and/or deep-water coral 

communities. 

In March of 2006, the first cruise of this program, the Reconnaissance Cruise (RC), began on the 

RV GYRE. Thousands of pictures of the sea floor were taken at locations identified by Roberts 

and his team. These pictures provided the first look at the dive sites we were to dive on for the 

ALVIN mission. Some sites revealed little except a muddy sea floor. At most of the sites there 

was strong evidence of seepage, and at least scattered occurrence of the types of animals 

expected at seep sites. In one case there were abundant soft corals, and at a few, there were large 

communities of seep animals. 

Based on the Reconnaissance Cruise Report, the images of the sea floor, previous knowledge of 

the geophysics and geochemistry of the sites, and a desire to explore over a wide depth and 

geographic range, the cruise and dives for the Deep Chemosynthetic Community 

Characterization (DCCC) expedition were planned and completed. 
5 

SAMPLING PROCEDURES 

CTD and Associated Hydrography 

 The CTD was deployed at seven sites on the DCCC cruise. Samples were taken to within 2 m of 

the bottom to characterize the bottom water. The near bottom bottles were sampled for 

particulate matter, POC, plant pigments, dissolved inorganic nutrients, oxygen and salinity. The 

oxygen, temperature, salinity, in vivo fluorescence, light intensity and light transmission were 

measured continuously with sensors and recorded aboard ship in real time. The oxygen and 

salinity were calibrated aboard ship with samples from the bottles. The inorganic nutrients were 

run with an autoanalyzer aboard ship on the first leg and frozen on the second leg for analysis in 

the shore-based laboratory. The CTD and Niskin logs are shown in Appendices 2 and 3. 

Photographic Imaging 

Seafloor Imaging 

During the first cruise (RC), the basic objective was to visually confirm the presence of a 

significant community of chemosynthetic or hard bottom fauna at the potential sites and to locate 

these communities as precisely as possible on the seafloor. The tool used for imaging the 

seafloor was the Drift Camera System (DCS). This combines a 3.2 mega-pixel Nikon digital 

camera with strobe illumination. The DCS was deployed on a frame lowered from the surface 

ship and held 2-5 m above the bottom based on feedback from a SeaBird CTD with altimeter. A 

rendered drawing of the camera system and the configuration used during the Photo 

Reconnaissance Cruise is shown in Figure 1. Lead weights were attached to the DCS in order to 

bring its weight in air to 400+ kg. 

A 28 kHz depthfinder was used throughout the cruise. In previous efforts, this type of sensor has 

detected gas plumes in the water column associated with seeps. On this cruise, the highresolution depth finder was not available until the second leg. Although some possible gas 

plumes were noted, the heavy seas experienced throughout the cruise precluded consistent 

sensing of gas plumes. Consequently, the water column imaging was not collected. Heavy seas 

also hampered the ability to observe natural oil slicks generated by oil and gas arriving at the 

surface. One active slick was observed at 27.371°N and 90.573°W. 

During the second cruise (DCCC) the project used two major types of digital photographic 

images obtained during the ATLANTIS cruise. Down-looking images were taken with a digital 

camera mounted behind the ALVIN equipment basket and operated by a timer so that a picture 

was taken every 10 seconds. By merging the time each picture was taken with ALVIN’s 

navigation records, an accurate record of the location of each picture could be compiled. 

Although image quality was generally excellent or good, it was sometime compromised by 

disturbed sediment or because the submarine was too far off the bottom to view the bottom. 

Additionally, when the submarine was at rest on the bottom the repeated images of a small area 

of seafloor were of no value. The complete set of down-camera images was screened to remove 

unusable images. The screened subset was termed and labeled “bottom in view” (BIV) images. A 

second set of digital images was taken using a macro-camera positioned by the ALVIN 

manipulator. These images show details of animals or geology at selected locations. 
A B 

Figure 1. (A) Rendering of the drift camera system with components labeled. (B) 

DCS being deployed from GYRE during the survey cruise. 

Time-Lapse Camera 

This task requires developing a system for short- and long-term photographic sampling in the 

seep environment. The proposed methodology calls for use of a digital camera controlled by a 

time-lapse switch and mounted on a rotary platform. A prototype of this camera was deployed 

during the May 2006 ALVIN cruise for two short intervals to test the equipment, lighting, and 

battery. The deployments proved somewhat problematic, but were ultimately successful and a 

rotary time-lapse system was left at the GC852 site for recovery during the 2007 cruise. 

During the intervening time, MacDonald and his students have been working to improve the 

design of the deployment/recovery system for the rotary time-lapse camera and to refine other 

aspects of this instrument. The present version of the rotary time-lapse camera is shown in 

Figure 2. Progress on the design can be summarized as follows: 

• Glass housing was redesigned to permit deployment at all study sites. 

• Compact battery housing was designed to facilitate deployment and recovery. 

• Autonomous recovery platform was designed and successfully tested. 

• Two rotary time-lapse systems have been acquired for use with the program. 

In addition to work on the time-lapse camera, MacDonald’s macro and survey digital camera 

systems were refurbished and checked in preparation of the 2007 cruise. Likewise, the CTD 

used during the March 2006 reconnaissance cruise was re-calibrated and checked for possible 

future use. 

6 
Figure 2. Rotary time-lapse camera and recovery platform. 

Navigation 

Precise navigation of the DCS was obtained from an ultra-short baseline (USBL) transponder 

calibrated with the ship’s DGPS. The TDI-Brooks field group uses this system for taking piston 

and box cores at preset locations and is routinely able to do so within a 5 m radius of the target. 

TDI-Brooks has developed a system and technique for navigating a deployed tool weighing at 

least 400 kg over a precise location in X, Y, and Z in down to 3,000 m of water, in order to 

sample from that specified target. 

In order to achieve the positioning and navigation requirements of this cruise, R/V GYRE was 

equipped with a C-Nav DGPS system with a moonpool-mounted Simrad HRP-410 USBL 

tranciever and Simrad MST-342 3,000 m beacons. The USBL transducer head can lock onto a 

beacon with a ±15 degree cone of coverage, thus increasing resolution versus a wide coverage 

cone. When the head receives in the narrow beam range the geometry increases the noise 

immunity from four db to 15 db, effectively increasing the noise rejection by a factor of 16. 

7 
The HPR-410 USBL system was interfaced to a VSS DMS05 Motion Reference Unit (MRU), 

which is also interfaced to the WinFrog navigation system such that real time position of the 

transponder is displayed on the monitors for the navigator, the helmsman, and the winchman. 

NMEA output of heading from the vessel gyro and the DGPS were interfaced via RS-232 

directly to the navigation computer as well as to the computer dedicated to USBL control. The 

transponder positions were processed and managed in real-time using Kongsberg APOS 

software. This arrangement provides an independent check on the WinFrog offsets and datum 

conversions. A schematic of this USBL system is shown in Figure 3. 

HPR 410 

(USBL) 

Transducer 

Head 

Pole through 

Moon pool

MRU for Pitch 

and Roll 

Corrections Vessel 

Gyro 

Output 

DGPS 

Signal 

C-Nav 

Output to 

WinFrog 

Navigation 

MST 342 

Transponder on 

Camera Sled 

USBL System 

Figure 3. This Kongsberg HPR-410 system and WinFrog data logger collected detailed 

position information for the vessel and the DCS. 

The standard operation procedure used to survey sites of interest was to locate a target area or 

areas based on the proprietary geophysical data provided from MMS. The bathymetric contours 

of the site and the targeted area were drawn as the background on the navigation computer 

monitor. The on-going track of the photoplatform was visually monitored and evaluated during 

the deployment period. 

8 
9 

Trawling 

A 40’ semi-balloon trawl was used during the RC cruise. It was towed at least 5 km from 

detailed study sites to obtain a large number of background species for isotopic characterization. 

The trawling was conducted during day and night operations on R/V GYRE. 

All trawl samples on the DCCC cruise were taken with an eight foot Agassiz-type beam trawl 

that was lowered and recovered at 50 m/min as tension allowed. Towing speed was one to two 

knots over ground. The purpose of sampling was to obtain specimens for trophic analysis within 

5 km of seep sites. 

Trawling was concentrated at study sites AT340, GC825, and AC818. Sampling at GC825 

proved problematic due to strong currents. Adequate material was obtained at all three sites. 

Box Coring 

A Gulf of Mexico type box core was used during the JC cruise to sample background benthic 

infauna at 1-km and 5-km from detailed study sites. Due to tissue requirements of isotope 

analysis, larger macrofauna were sought and samples processed through a 0.5 mm screen. 

ADCP 

 Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCP) were operated on station and with the ship 

underway to obtain an integrated picture of current direction and velocity in the upper 1,000 m of 

the water column. A 38 kHz OS-ADCP was operated for the entire cruise. Data processing is 

ongoing. 

Mapping 

 Maps were made during the sampling at each site at scales of 10 to 50 km around each site, with 

topography plotted at 50 m intervals. The locations of each sampling activity were plotted to 

show the spatial relationships between each sampling device and sampling replicates. 

Microbiology/Biogeochemistry 

Water Column Biogeochemistry 

Sample Collection and Analysis 

At the intensively sampled stations, during the DCCC cruise, water samples were collected at 20 

depths between the surface and about 3 m above the sediment column using a rosette package. 

The rosette package consisted of: 

1) 20 (10 liter go-flo trace-metal) clean water sampling bottles, 

2) SBE9+ CTD (dual SBE3T/SBE4C sensor system plus extra SBE3T temp, SBE4C 

conductivity, and SBE43 oxygen sensor), 

3) Benthos - Datasonics PSA-916 altimeter; 

4) 100x gain Wetlabs C-Star transmissometer, and 

5) 660 nm wavelength, 25 cm pathlength Wetlabs ECO-AFL chlorophyll fluorometer. 

Physical data from sensors 1 through 4 were collected during descent and ascent. The go-flo 
10 

bottles were remotely triggered at select depths during assent of the rosette except for the 

second cast at AC601, where bottles were tripped on the descent as well as on the ascent. 

Once on deck, the go-flo bottles were opened carefully to collect samples for subsequent 

quantification of concentrations of dissolved oxygen, dissolved methane, inorganic nutrients 

(ammonium, nitrate+nitrite, phosphate, and silicate) and dissolved organic carbon. 

Microbiological samples were also collected to determine microbial abundance (i.e., cell counts) 

and diversity (detail on these samples is provided in Microbiology and Molecular Biology). 

Oxygen concentrations were determined with a high-sensitivity galvanic oxygen sensor in a 

closed circulation cell. To quantify dissolved methane concentrations, sonication/vacuum 

extraction was used to isolate methane and quantify its concentration using gas chromatography 

(Suess et al., 1999). Nutrient (NO3

–

, PO4

3-, and SiO2) concentrations were determined using 

automated flow-injection on a Lachat QuickChem 8000. NH4

+

 concentrations were measured 

using the phenol hypochlorite method (Solarazano 1969). Dissolved organic carbon was 

determined using a Shimadzu TOC 5000 (Sharp et al., 1993). Rates of aerobic methane oxidation 

were measured by incubating triplicate live and dead (Hg-killed) samples in the presence of 

14CH4 (Joye et al., 1999) for 48 hours. Unreacted 14CH4 tracer was removed by purging samples 

with water-saturated CH4 and the oxidation product, H14CO3

-

, was quantified by liquid 

scintillation counting (Joye et al., 1999). 

Sample Inventory 

Seven CTD casts at three stations (two at AT340, three at GC852, and two at AC601; Table 1) 

generated 148 samples for oxygen, methane, nutrient and DOC concentration analyses. Six rate 

samples were generated for 100 of these water samples, yielding 600 additional samples. 

Table 1 

Summary of water column sampling program 

Date Site CTD Cast # Go-flo bottles tripped 

5/15/06 AT340 1 23 

5/17/06 AT340 2 20 

5/20/06 GC852 3 18 

5/22/06 GC852 4 20 

5/22/06 GC852 5 21 

5/29/06 AC601 6 23 

5/31/06 AC601 7 23 
11 

Sediment Biogeochemistry 

Sample Collection and Analysis 

Sediment push cores were collected into polycarbonate core liner by positioning the core liner 

over an appropriate site with the ALVIN’s manipulator arm (Appendices 4 - 7). Up to 12 cores 

were collected on each of the coring dives (14 of the 24 dives were coring dives; Table 2). Some 

degassing of methane-laden cores occurred during return to the surface and this was particularly 

notable at the deepest sites (e.g., AC601). Once the submersible was secure in the hanger, cores 

(or brine samples) were transferred immediately to the 4 oC environmental room. Geochemistry 

cores were sectioned under anaerobic conditions and sub-samples were collected at 2 cm depth 

intervals for determination of concentrations of the following components: pH, salinity, 

dissolved gases, dissolved and particulate carbon and sulfur species, dissolved nutrients, metals, 

and redox metabolites (e.g., hydrogen sulfide and dissolved inorganic carbon). Salinity was 

determined using a hand-held refractometer. Measurements of pH were done on board ship using 

an Accumet high precision electrometer that was calibrated with N.B.S. standards (pH 4, 7 and 

10). 

Concentrations of C1 to C5 hydrocarbons were determined on a sediment sub-sample via 

headspace extraction (done on board the ship) and gas concentration was quantified using gas 

chromatography (Joye et al., 2004). Concentrations of dissolved hydrogen in the sediment 

porewater were determined following sediment incubations (~10 days) using a reduction gas 

analyzer (Orcutt et al., 2005). Sediment porosity was determined as weight loss after drying 

(Joye et al., 2004). Concentrations of dissolved inorganic carbon in the pore water were 

determined using a high sensitivity infrared gas analyzer. 

Concentrations of hydrogen sulfide were determined colorimetrically (Cline 1969). 

Concentrations of anions (sulfate, chloride, iodide, and bromide) and cations (sodium, potassium, 

calcium, magnesium and barium) were determined using ion chromatography (Joye et al., 2004). 

Concentrations of Fe2+ and Mn2+ were analyzed colorimetrically using the ferrozine and 

formaldoxime methods, respectively (Stookey 1970, Armstrong et al., 1979). Concentrations of 

volatile fatty acids (i.e., formate, glycolate, acetate, proprionate, butyrate, lactate, and succinate) 

were determined following derivitization using HPLC (Albert and Martens 1997). 

Concentrations of dissolved organic carbon were determined with a Shimadzu TOC 5000 (Sharp 

et al., 1993). Nutrient concentrations (nitrate+nitrite, phosphate, silicate) were determined using 

a LACHAT autoanalyzer (Joye et al., 2004) and concentrations of ammonium were determined 

using the phenol hypochlorite technique (Solarazano 1969). Concentrations of solid phase, 

organic and inorganic, carbon, nitrogen and sulfur were determined using standard methods on a 

ThermoFinnigan Flash Elemental Analyzer. Concentrations of methane were determined on 

board the ship. Nutrient concentrations were determined the week after the cruise. Other 

geochemical analyses are on-going. 

Two to three cores from each set of cores collected were sub-sampled to determine rates of 

microbial metabolic activity. Rates of sulfate reduction (SR) and the anaerobic oxidation of 
12 

methane (AOM) were determined for all core sets, while rates of methanogenesis from acetate 

(Ac-MOG) or bicarbonate/hydrogen (H_MOG) were determined in about half of the core sets. 

For SR and AOM rate measurements, six plexiglass sub-cores (2.54-cm i.d. x 30 cm long) were 

collected from a core (~8 cm i.d.) by manual insertion. Three sub-cores were used for SR rate 

assays while the other three were used for AOM rate assays. The overlying water phase was 

maintained during sub-coring and the ends of each tube were sealed with black rubber stoppers. 

Radiotracer (either 35S-SO4

2-

 or 

14CH4 dissolved in filter-sterilized (0.1 μm filtered) seawater) 

was added to pre-drilled, silicone filled holes at 0.5 cm intervals down the length of the core 

(Joye et al., 2004, Orcutt et al., 2005). For AOM, 100 μL of dissolved 14CH4 tracer (about 

60,000 dpm) was injected into each silicone-filled port. Cores were incubated for 12 to 24 hours 

at bottom water temperature. Following incubation, cores were extruded and sub-samples were 

collected at 1 cm intervals and immediately transferred to a 50 mL plastic centrifuge tube 

containing 2 mL of 2M NaOH (which served to arrest biological activity and fix 14C-CO2 and 

14C-HCO3

-

). Each vial was sealed, vortexed to mix the sample and base, and immediately frozen. 

Time zero samples were fixed immediately after tracer injection. The specific activity of the 

tracer (14CH4) was determined by injecting 100 μL directly into scintillation cocktail (Scintiverse 

BD) followed by liquid scintillation counting. The accumulation of 14C product (14CO2) was 

determined by acid digestion following the method of Joye et al. (1999). The AOM rate was 

calculated using a standard equation (Orcutt et al., 2005). 

For SR rate measurements, 100 μL of tracer containing about 2 μCi of Na2

35SO4 was added to 

each port. Cores were incubated and sectioned as described above. Each sediment section was 

transferred to a 50 mL centrifuge tube containing 10 mL of 20 percent zinc acetate to halt 

microbial activity and fix H2

35S as Zn35S. The accumulation of H235S product was recovered in a 

one-step hot chromous acid digestion. The activity of ZnS and sulfate fractions was determined 

by scintillation counting. The sulfate reduction rate was calculated using a standard equation 

(Orcutt et al., 2005). 

Rates of methanogenesis, both Ac_MOG and H_MOG, were determined by incubating samples 

in gas-tight, closed-tube vessels without headspace, to prevent the loss of gaseous 14CH4 product 

during sample manipulation. For collection of sub-samples, a polycarbonate manifold containing 

eight pre-drilled holes that were slightly larger than the diameter of the sample tubes was placed 

on top of the sediment core. The sediment was extruded into the manifold at two cm intervals 

and then a stainless steel blade was inserted at the base to isolate the section from the remaining 

sediment. Next, six to eight glass tubes (20 ml Pyrex® Hungate culture tubes with the rounded 

end removed) were inserted through the pre-drilled holes into the sediment, stopping at the blade. 

Tubes were sealed using custom-designed plungers (black Hungate stoppers with the lip 

removed containing a plastic “tail” that was run through the stopper) inserted at the base of the 

tube. The sediment was then pushed via the plunger to the top of the tube until a small amount 

protruded through the tube opening. A butyl rubber septa was then eased into the tube opening to 

displace sediment in contact with the atmosphere and close the tube. It was sealed with a opentop screw cap. The rubber materials used in these assays were boiled in 1N NaOH for one hour, 

followed by several rinses in boiling milliQ water, to leach potentially toxic substances. 

A volume of radiotracer solution (100 μL of 14C-HCO3

-

 tracer (~1 x 107 dpm) or 1,2-14CCH3COO-

 tracer (~5 x 106 dpm)) was injected into each sample. Samples were incubated as 
13 

described above and then 2 ml of 2N NaOH were injected through the top stopper into each 

sample to terminate biological activity (time zero samples were fixed prior to tracer injection). 

Samples were mixed to evenly distribute NaOH through the sample. Production of 14CH4 was 

quantified by stripping methane from the tubes with an air carrier, converting the 14CH4 to 14CO2

in a combustion furnace, and subsequent trapping of the 14CO2 in NaOH as carbonate. Activity 

of 14CO2 was measured subsequently by liquid scintillation counting. The rates of Bi-MOG and 

Ac-MOG rates were calculated using standard equations (Orcutt et al. 2005). Laboratory 

processing of rate samples is on-going but will be completed by October 2006. 

Sample Inventory 

Twenty-seven sets (a ‘set’ is used here to denote four to six replicate cores) of sediment cores 

were collected from nine sites (Table 2): 

1. AT340: five sets of cores; 

2. GC600: four sets of cores; 

3. GC852: four sets of cores; 

4. MC853: two sets of cores; 

5. MC640: three sets of cores; 

6. WR269/270: one set of cores; 

7. AC818: two sets of cores; 

8. AC645: two set of cores , 

9. AC601: six sets of cores. 

For each set of cores, one core was used to generate pore water and solid phase geochemical 

data; one to two cores were used for rate assays to determine rates of sulfate reduction, methane 

oxidation and methanogenesis; and one to two sets of cores were sectioned to collect 

microbiology samples (see Microbiology section). For each geochemistry core, 11 different 

subsamples were collected from 4 to 11 depth intervals. A total of 254 depth intervals were 

sampled in the 27 geochemistry cores, generating 2,794 individual geochemistry samples. 

Thirty-eight cores were used for determination of rates of microbial activity (Table 3). About 

380 depth intervals were sampled, generating 3,000 individual samples (~1,200 sulfate reduction 

rate samples, 1,200 methane oxidation rate samples, and 600 methanogenesis rate samples). 
14 

Table 2 

Summary of samples used for geochemistry 

Site Dive Core Designation Depth of Sediment (cm) 

1. AT340 4173 R1 14 

2. AT340 4173 Y1 20 

3. GC600 4174 Y2 20 

4. GC600 4174 R4 12 

5. GC852 4177 R1 22 

6. MC853 4178 R4 20 

7. MC853 4178 Y2 16 

8. AT340 4181 R3 10 

9. MC640 4182 R2 18 

10. MC640 4182 Y4 16 

11. MC640 4182 Y3 6 

12. AT340 4183 Y2 22 

13. AT340 4183 R2 18 

14. GC600 4184 Y6 16 

15. GC600 4184 R2 14 

16. GC852 4189 Y1 12 

17. GC852 4189 R3 12 

18. GC852 4189 Y6 16 

19. WR269/270 4191 Y5 20 

20. AC818 4192 R5 18 

21. AC818 4192 Y3 20 

22. AC601 4193 Brine fluid Brine fluid 

23. AC601 4193 Y1 20 

24. AC601 4193 R2 22 

25. AC601 4193 Y6 20 

26. AC645 4194 Y6 20 

27. AC601 4196 Y5 20 

28. AC601 4196 R5 18 

29. AC601 4196 Brine Fluid Brine fluid 
15 

Table 3 

Summary of samples used for microbial rate assays 

Site Dive Core Designation 

1. AT340 4173 Y4 

2. AT340 4173 R4 

3. GC600 4174 R4 

4. GC600 4174 R1 

5. GC852 4177 R5 

6. GC852 4177 R6 

7. MC853 4178 Y4 

8. MC853 4178 Y5 

9. MC853 4178 R1 

10. MC853 4178 R6 

11. AT340 4181 R3 

12. AT340 4181 R4 

13. MC640 4182 Y5 

14. MC640 4182 R3 

15. MC640 4182 R4 

16. AT340 4183 Y1 

17. AT340 4183 R4 

18. AT340 4183 R5 

19. GC600 4184 Y1 

20. GC600 4184 Y3 

21. GC600 4184 Y5 

22. GC852 4189 R2 

23. GC852 4189 Y5 
16 

Table 3. Summary of samples used for microbial rate assays (continued). 

Site Dive Core Designation 

24. WR269/270 4191 R2 

25. WR269/270 4191 R3 

26. AC818 4192 R6 

27. AC818 4192 Y5 

28. AC601 4193 Y5 

29. AC601 4193 Y2 

30. AC601 4193 R6 

31. AC645 4194 Y2 

32. AC645 4194 Y5 

33. AC601 4196 R1 

34. AC601 4196 R2 

35. AC601 4196 R4 

36. AC601 4196 Y1 

37. AC601 4196 Y2 

38. AC601 4196 Y3 

Microbiology and Molecular Biology 

Sample Collection, Inventory, and Discussion 

During the cruise, two types of microbiology samples were collected: water column and 

sediment. While shipboard, the microbiology samples were fixed for subsequent analysis at the 

University of Georgia (UGA), Athens, Georgia and the Max Planck Institute (MPI), Bremen, 

Germany. A summary of the microbiology sample inventory, shipboard preparations, and 

methods in progress at shore-based facilities, and a discussion of how these procedures 

contribute to the goals of the CHEMO III program follows. 

Approximately 125 water column microbiology samples were collected during seven CTD casts 

at three different sites. A majority of the water column samples were acquired during night-time 

CTD operations. Some additional samples were obtained from niskins mounted on the DSV 

ALVIN. Water column microbiology samples were from niskin bottles, which were sampled 

immediately after the rosette was secured on the deck. A 10 mL sub-sample was fixed with a 

four percent formaldehyde solution for 30 minutes and then frozen at -20 oC. All water column 

samples were analyzed using epifluorescence microscopy to determine microbial abundance (via 

Acridine Orange-Direct Count, AODC) and to determine the abundance of methanotrophs (via 
17 

Flourescence in situ Hybridization, FISH). 

Approximately 140 microbiology sediment samples were collected during 23 dives at a diverse 

group of sites (e.g., brines, mussel beds, clam beds, oil seeps, bacterial mats) (Table 4). 

Molecular sediment samples were collected and fixed for a variety of molecular analyses: 

AODC, Catalyzed Auto-Reporter Deposition Flourescence in situ Hybridization (CARD-FISH), 

DNA extraction and sequencing, and biomarker analysis. Sediment samples were collected from 

cores in 2 cm intervals for each of these analyses. At each depth, one cm3

 of sediment was fixed 

in four percent formaldehyde in filter-sterilized (0.1 μm filtered) Sargasso seawater. The fixed 

portion was then split for AODC and CARD-FISH. The CARD-FISH split was stored in an 

ethanol/phosphate buffer at -20 oC. From each two cm interval, 20-30 grams of wet sediment 

were stored at -20oC for DNA extraction. The remainder of the two cm intervals was collected 

for biomarker analysis. At approximately six sites, live mud was collected and stored under an 

argon atmosphere at 4 oC for subsequent laboratory enrichment experiments. 

Because one of the major themes of the program is to investigate the biogeography and ecology 

of the Lower Continental Slope, microbiology methods that allow quantification of microbial 

abundance as well as the determination of individual microbial (type) distributions (i.e., how 

many microbes and which microbes are there) were selected. The two cm intervals from which 

all microbiology samples were collected are paired directly with geochemical and rate samples 

described in Sediment Biogeochemistry. The ability to link all these data is pivotal to revealing 

what microbes are doing in their environment. 

For a general determination of total microbial abundance in sediment, epiflourescence 

microscopy (AO-DC, Hobbie et al., 1977) was used. Since this is a non-specific method (i.e., the 

dye illuminates all cells indiscriminately) and the interest is to describe microbial community 

structure and associations, CARD-FISH will be used to identify specific groups of bacteria and 

archaea (e.g. specific sulfate reducing bacteria and methane oxidizing archaea) and visualize 

their associations (Amann et al., 1990). In CARD-FISH, probes are used to selectively illuminate 

microbial cells based on functional genes or 16S rDNA for that specific cell type. CARD-FISH 

will be used to determine the abundance of the anaerobic methane oxidiers (ANME) and sulfate 

reducing bacteria (SRB) consortium (Boetius et al., 2003, Orcutt et al., 2005). 

The final method used to investigate sediment microbial abundance and identity at the Lower 

Continental Slope is an analysis of biomarkers. Each microbe has a specific lipid membrane 

make-up (i.e., glycerol fatty acid esters, isoprenoid glycerol ether, or isoprenoid hydrocarbons). 

Much like humans, the biomarker composition of a sample offers a microbial ‘fingerprint.’ The 

biomarker method quantifies specific lipids to determine which microbes are present and thereby 

their relative abundance. This method also helps determine the abundance and occurrence of the 

ANME/SRB consortia, and which ANME archaeans (ANME-1, ANME-2, and ANME-3) and 

SRB are responsible for the consortia (Niemann, et al., 2005). 

‘Live mud’ will be used for manipulating constituent microbes to gain an understanding of their 

limitations, genetic makeup, and activities in the environment. Preliminary analysis of 

geochemical samples shows that along the Lower Continental Slope sulfide concentrations are, 

at some sites, extremely high. One of the potential uses of ‘live mud’ would therefore be to test 
18 

the tolerance of in situ microorganisms to high sulfide concentrations. Sulfide inhibits the 

activity of microbes, including SRB that produce sulfide. Locally, the sulfide concentrations can 

greatly impact the ecology at the respective sites. 

Table 4 

Inventory of Sediment Microbiology Samples 

Dive # Core ID # depths FISH DNA AODC Biomarker

1. 4173 R5 13 x x x x 

2. 4173 Y2 11 x x x x 

3. 4174 Y4 4 x x x x 

4. 4174 R5 10 x x x x 

5. 4177 R2 5 x x x x 

6. 4178 Y4 9 x x x x 

7. 4178 R2 6 x x x x 

8. 4183 Y6 3 x x x x 

9. 4184 Y1 7 x x x x 

10. 4189 R1 4 x x x x 

11. 4191 Y4 10 x x x x 

12. 4192 Y4 10 x x x x 

13. 4192 R4 5 x x x x 

14. 4193 R1 12 x x x x 

15. 4193 R5 8 x x x x 

15. 4193 Y5 9 x x x x 

16. 4194 Y3 6 x x x x 

17. 4196 Y6 5 x x x x 

18. 4196 R1 5 x x x x 

RADARSAT Synthetic Aperture Radar Images 

Satellite remote sensing images have been used to delineate persistent patches of floating oil 

slicks released by natural seeps and to predict the seafloor locations of chemosynthetic 

communities (MacDonald et al., 1996; MacDonald et al., 2002). Remote sensing data on slicks 

were part of the material reviewed to select the sites explored during the reconnaissance cruise 

and subsequently sample with ALVIN. In addition, under a data-sharing agreement with NASA, 

a series of new RADARSAT synthetic aperture radar images were obtained while R/V 

ATLANTIS was at sea conducting sampling operations with ALVIN. The data were obtained 
along orbital paths that covered the individual sampling sites (Figure 4). Each frame along the 

path covers approximately 100x100 km of area. A total of 64 satellite images have been ordered 

from the data acquisition (Table 5). Additional images may be ordered to fill in gaps in 

coverage. 

Figure 4. Image swaths covered by the RADARSAT satellite are shown over the 

northern Gulf of Mexico region. 

Analysis of these data will provide information on the occurrence of persistent oil seeps 

associated with the sampling sites. An example of the application and an illustration of the 

coverage provided by each SAR image is shown in Figure 5. An image (ID R155058_ST3_068) 

was collected on 23 May at 00:02:14 UTC (22 May 19:00:14 local) while ATLANTIS was 

operating near the GC852 site. This image is one of four that were taken while ATLANTIS was 

within the image coverage area. The GC852 site is captured in the western edge of the image. 

Numerous oil slicks can be seen throughout the image. A strong clockwise rotation is indicated 

by the drift path of the oil slicks. More than likely this corresponds to a warm-cored eddy that 

was located in the region at that time and is consistent with observations of strong currents on the 

surface and in the submarine. Detail from this image indicates that the georectification data 

supplied with the image was slightly biased to the east northeast. ATLANTIS shows in the image 

as a strong radar target. However the GPS position logged by ATLANTIS places it about 3 km to 

the west of this target. Additional processing will have to be performed on the images to correct 

these issues. 

19 
20 

Table 5 

Inventory of satellite images obtained. 

Leg granule (imageID) time date lat lon sites covered 

1 R154915_ST1_064 23:53:29 12-May-06 25.6 -90.02 GC600 GC868 GC296 GC817 

1 R154915_ST1_066 23:53:42 12-May-06 26.4 -90.2 GC600 GC868 GC296 GC817 

1 R154915_ST1_068 23:53:56 12-May-06 27.2 -90.39 GC600 GC868 GC296 GC817 

1 R154915_ST1_069 23:54:03 12-May-06 27.6 -90.49 GC600 GC868 GC296 GC817 

1 R154922_ST1_379 12:14:08 13-May-06 28.4 -92.56 KC514 Kc333 KC243 KC129 

1 R154922_ST1_380 12:14:14 13-May-06 28 -92.66 KC514 Kc333 KC243 KC129 

1 R154922_ST1_382 12:14:28 13-May-06 27.2 -92.84 KC514 Kc333 KC243 KC129 

1 R154922_ST1_384 12:14:42 13-May-06 26.4 -93.03 KC514 Kc333 KC243 KC129 

1 R154922_ST1_395 12:15:56 13-May-06 22 -94.04 Campeche Seeps 

1 R154922_ST1_396 12:16:03 13-May-06 21.6 -94.13 Campeche Seeps 

1 R154958_ST3_064 00:06:00 16-May-06 25.6 -91.47 WR269/270 WR268 WR265 KC216 

1 R154958_ST3_066 00:06:14 16-May-06 26.4 -91.65 WR269/270 WR268 WR265 KC216 

1 R154958_ST3_068 00:06:27 16-May-06 27.2 -91.82 WR269/270 WR268 WR265 KC216 

1 R154958_ST3_070 00:06:41 16-May-06 28 -92 WR269/270 WR268 WR265 KC216 

1 R154979_ST1_377 11:57:05 17-May-06 29.2 -88.17 AT340 AT342 MC640 

1 R154979_ST1_379 11:57:19 17-May-06 28.4 -88.36 AT340 AT342 MC640 

1 R154979_ST1_381 11:57:32 17-May-06 27.6 -88.55 AT340 AT342 MC640 

1 R154979_ST1_383 11:57:46 17-May-06 26.8 -88.74 AT340 AT342 MC640 

1 R154979_ST1_394 11:59:00 17-May-06 22.4 -89.75 Alacran Reefs 

1 R155015_ST2_067 23:49:34 19-May-06 26.8 -88.59 AT340 AT342MC640 

1 R155015_ST2_069 23:49:47 19-May-06 27.6 -88.77 AT340 AT342MC640 

1 R155015_ST2_070 23:49:54 19-May-06 28 -88.86 AT340 AT342MC640 

1 R155015_ST2_071 23:50:01 19-May-06 28.4 -88.95 AT340 AT342MC640 

1 R155015_ST2_072 23:50:07 19-May-06 28.8 -89.05 AT340 AT342MC640 

1 R155022_ST1_380 12:10:00 20-May-06 28 -91.6 WR269/270 WR268 WR265 KC216 

1 R155022_ST1_382 12:10:14 20-May-06 27.2 -91.79 WR269/270 WR268 WR265 KC217 

1 R155022_ST1_383 12:10:21 20-May-06 26.8 -91.88 WR269/270 WR268 WR265 KC218 

1 R155022_ST1_385 12:10:34 20-May-06 26 -92.07 WR269/270 WR268 WR265 KC219 

1 R155022_ST1_387 12:10:48 20-May-06 25.2 -92.25 WR269/270 WR268 WR265 KC220 

1 R155022_ST1_390 12:11:08 20-May-06 24 -92.53 Vioska Knolls 

1 R155022_ST1_391 12:11:15 20-May-06 23.6 -92.62 Vioska Knolls 

1 R155022_ST1_392 12:11:21 20-May-06 23.2 -92.71 Vioska Knolls 

1 R155058_ST3_066 00:02:00 23-May-06 26.4 -90.6 GC852 GC812 GC767 GC817 GC868 

1 R155058_ST3_068 00:02:14 23-May-06 27.2 -90.77 GC852 GC812 GC767 GC817 GC868 

1 R155058_ST3_070 00:02:27 23-May-06 28 -90.95 GC852 GC812 GC767 GC817 GC868 
21 

Table 5. Inventory of satellite images obtained. (continued) 

Leg granule (imageID) time date lat lon sites covered 

1 R155079_ST3_377 11:52:56 24-May-06 29.2 -88.84 MC853 MC640 MC548 MC462 

1 R155079_ST3_379 11:53:10 24-May-06 28.4 -89.02 MC853 MC640 MC548 MC463 

1 R155079_ST3_381 11:53:23 24-May-06 27.6 -89.2 MC853 MC640 MC548 MC464 

1 R155079_ST3_383 11:53:37 24-May-06 26.8 -89.37 MC853 MC640 MC548 MC465 

1 R155115_ST1_067 23:45:24 26-May-06 26.8 -88.2 AT340 AT342 MC640 

1 R155115_ST1_069 23:45:38 26-May-06 27.6 -88.38 AT340 AT342 MC640 

1 R155115_ST1_071 23:45:51 26-May-06 28.4 -88.57 AT340 AT342 MC640 

1 R155115_ST1_073 23:46:05 26-May-06 29.2 -88.77 AT340 AT342 MC640 

1 R155122_ST1_380 12:05:50 27-May-06 28 -90.55 GC852 GC600 

1 R155122_ST1_382 12:06:03 27-May-06 27.2 -90.74 GC852 GC600 

1 R155122_ST1_383 12:06:10 27-May-06 26.8 -90.83 GC852 GC600 

1 R155122_ST1_384 12:06:17 27-May-06 26.4 -90.93 GC852 GC600 

1 R155122_ST1_386 12:06:30 27-May-06 25.6 -91.11 GC852 GC600 

1 R155122_ST1_395 12:07:31 27-May-06 22 -91.94 Campeche Seeps 

2 R155065_ST1_381 12:22:43 23-May-06 27.6 -94.84 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155065_ST1_383 12:22:56 23-May-06 26.8 -95.03 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155065_ST1_385 12:23:10 23-May-06 26 -95.21 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155065_ST1_387 12:23:24 23-May-06 25.2 -95.4 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155101_ST2_063 00:14:19 26-May-06 25.2 -94.52 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155101_ST2_065 00:14:32 26-May-06 26 -94.7 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155101_ST2_067 00:14:46 26-May-06 26.8 -94.89 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155165_ST2_382 12:18:41 30-May-06 27.2 -94.54 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155165_ST2_384 12:18:54 30-May-06 26.4 -94.72 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155165_ST2_386 12:19:08 30-May-06 25.6 -94.9 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155165_ST2_387 12:19:15 30-May-06 25.2 -94.99 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155201_ST1_063 00:10:09 2-Jun-06 25.2 -94.12 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155201_ST1_065 00:10:23 2-Jun-06 26 -94.31 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155201_ST1_067 00:10:37 2-Jun-06 26.8 -94.5 AC601 AC775 AC818 

2 R155201_ST1_068 00:10:43 2-Jun-06 27.2 -94.59 AC601 AC775 AC818 
Figure 5. SAR image collected 22 May at 19:02 local time. 

22 
SAR Image Acquisition and Aanalysis 

Data Acquisition 

Extensive satellite SAR imagery covering the Gulf of Mexico have been made available to the 

project through a data-sharing agreement with MacDonald’ lab. A total of 64 RADARSAT SAR 

images were obtained during the May 2006 cruise (Figure 6). These data confirmed the 

presence of natural oil slicks on the surface near many of the project sampling sites (Figure5). 

Additionally, the data show how the oceanic environment is impacted by the dynamics of the 

Loop Current and resultant eddies. The SAR image group has been occupied with a number of 

project-related tasks during 2006. In addition to acquiring and processing the SAR images, the 

group has obtained access to several related data sets that show oceanographic processes in the 

overall study region. 

(A) 

(B) (C) 

Figure 6. SAR and related oceanographic data assembled for study of natural seeps 

in study region. (A) Image collected by Radarsat on May 23 2006. The full 

image shows multiple slicks in a rotating gyre. (B) Sea-surface height 

anomalies from the same data show presence of a warm-cored eddy (Eddy 

Xtreme). (C) Geostrophic currents generated by Eddy Xtreme and related 

features.

23 
The principal objectives of this effort are to acquire and analyze SAR data concurrent with 

project field activities. In a related effort, we have compiled a complete inventory of SAR data 

collected in the Gulf of Mexico since 1992 when the major SAR platforms became operational. 

The goal of this effort is to provide a historical context for the extent and magnitude of natural 

oil seep across the Gulf of Mexico, with a focus on the CHEMO III study area. Figure 7 shows 

a summary of ~31,000 SAR image—believed to be the complete inventory of all SAR data ever 

collected over the Gulf of Mexico. This inventory is intended to provide MMS with an overview 

of available data for assessing the magnitude and extent of natural seepage in the region. 

Figure 7. Summary figure showing spatial coverage for complete 

inventory of SAR images from the Gulf of Mexico (~31,000 

images) that have been collected since 1992. 

Automated Slick Detection Methods. 

Ongoing work includes development of algorithms and routines to automate the recognition of 

natural slicks under the expected range of imaging conditions. Approaches tested to date employ 

texton filters that iteratively scan the SAR images (Figure 8). Results provide a robust and timeefficient means for detecting targets similar to the slicks a human analyst would delineate. 

Future application will expand the range of viewing conditions that the textons can handle and 

further automate the detection procedures. 

24 
(A) (B) 

(C) 

Figure 8. Automated slick detection with use of texton filter array. (A) SAR image 

obtained on 12 May 2006 shows numerous slicks near the GC852 site. (B) 

The outlines of these slick targets were extracted from the original image 

by iterative edge detection routines using the (C) filter array. 

25 
27 

EDUCATION OUTREACH SUMMARY 

Liz Goehring, education outreach coordinator, and Cindy Petersen, middle schools science 

teacher, participated in the cruise, worked with the science party to develop "Classroom to Sea" 

labs and related classroom materials. The education team interviewed scientists to better 

understand the background for their specific research as well as the purpose of the activities 

during the cruise. The purpose was to find applications for the science classroom. Three 

"Classroom to Sea" labs were identified: one an existing lab that will be modified to include the 

seep environment and two new labs. Goehring is also working to incorporate the labs into the 

new FLEXE (From Local To Extreme Environments) project – as part of the GLOBE program 

(www.GLOBE.gov). 

The existing lab, referred to as the Mussel Lab, involves students in a comparison of shallowwater mussels to deep-sea mussels, in particular focusing on differences in feeding strategies. 

During the cruise, the education team dissected and measured 152 mussels, from six locations 

and ten dives. Three mussel species (Bathymodiolus brooksi, B. childressi, and B. heckerae) are 

included. This dataset will be added to an existing dataset on vent mussels (B. thermophilus) 

along with new support materials featuring research specific to seeps, and will be added to the 

SEAS Web site for use in the coming academic year. A new "Scientist Spotlight" page will be 

created to feature the mussel-related research associated with this cruise, including collection 

techniques (e.g., Mussel Pots) and photomosaics to study mussel communities. In addition to 

volume measurements for the "Classroom to Sea" lab, the team collected tissue samples and 

shell measurements for other members of the science party. 

The education team worked on a second lab, referred to as the RUST Lab. The idea behind this 

lab is to help students understand oxidation by examining different rates of metal oxidation, as 

well as some of the factors affecting those rates (e.g., water chemistry, temperature, microbialfacilitated activity). During the cruise, the team set up two deployments of metal strips (Fe, Al, 

Zn, and Cu), placed in areas near seep flow to expose the metals to sulfides, and retrieved after 9 

and 13 days. Change in mass was measured as well as photodocumentation of surface corrosion. 

The team also set up a parallel experiment on board, soaking metal strips in petri dishes with 

seawater, "Instant Ocean," distilled water and sediment. The purpose of this parallel trial was to 

work out details of the classroom version of the lab. Many individuals in the science party were 

consulted to help explain results from these trials. Data collected during the cruise were analyzed 

and used. The lab was piloted by C. Petersen in her science classes in the 2007-08 academic 

year. 

A third lab was identified, referred to as the Biodiversity Lab. This lab will feature the 

community ecology work of the science party, focusing students on understanding measures of 

biodiversity and community processes. During the cruise, the team focused on collecting 

background information on community studies; images and video of sampling (e.g., Bushmaster 

collections), sorting and measuring; and images of specific organisms with associated 

information. The lab will be developed in the upcoming year. 

In addition Fisher was the Keynote presenter for the week of November 12, 2006 for an on-line 
28 

teachers workshop offered for credit by National Geographic and the NOAA Ocean Exploration 

Program as part of their “College of Exploration” (www.coexploration.org/ceo2006/index.html). 

For this Fisher prepared an online (image-rich) presentation and worked with the organizers on 

associated materials, and then spent several hours each day that week answering questions from 

the teachers around the country. Over 1,200 teachers participated in this workshop and 

approximately 50 of these teachers asked at least one question during the offering. 
29 

TRAWLS AND BOX CORES - RC CRUISE 

Trawls were completed at three sites, MC685, MC548 and AT209. Two box cores were 

collected at site WR265. Table 6 summarizes the trawling and box coring activities during the 

Reconnaissance Cruise. Following Table 6 is a narrative of the trawling activities with a brief 

description of the trawl contents. The two box cores were sieved for isotopic analysis of the 

faunal contents. 

Table 6 

Summary of trawling and box core activities. 

Site Date Start-End 

Time (hrs) 

Depth 

(m) 

Latitude 

(N) 

Longitude 

(W) COMMENTS Activity 

MC685 3/19/06 1815-2145 1500 28.287575 -88.739185 Bottom snag trawl at MC685 Trawl 3 

MC548 3/19/06 1330-1600 1000 28.404987 -88.967487 

20 kg of assorted benthic 

fauna including fishes, 

echinoderms, and 

crustaceans. 

Trawl 1 

MC908 3/20/06 1800-2200 2000 28.065796 -88.582635 

Attempted box core. Reached 

bottom, but core did not 

trigger. 

AT209 3/21/06 1030-1400 2500 27.778787 -88.321719 Completed trawl of AT209 

station Trawl 4 

WR265 3/23/06 1500-2100 1820 26.682572 91.885683 

This was a non-seep site 

chosen for box coring to 

collect background tissue 

samples of benthic fauna. 

Two 30-cm x 30-cm box 

cores were successfully 

collected at this site. 

Box 

Cores 

1&2 

Trawl / Box Core Narrative 

19 March 

MC548 - Initial haul missed bottom due to depth readout problem. Second attempt was highly 

successful with approximatey 20 kgs. of material dominated by fish, holothuroids, and 

the golden crab Chaceon. Tissues sampled for background measurements. 

 91 frozen samples for isotope trophics to Carney LSU 

 19 holothuriod 

 32 crustacean 

 38 fish 

 1 polychaete 

 1 bag seastars for lab prep 
30 

MC685 - Trawl 3: The net hung on bottom but pulled free w/out damage. Small sample 

included large paralithodid crab, fish, and infaunal holothurians. All were processed 

for tissue samples. Small sample due to bottom obstruction of the net. 

• 5 frozen samples for isotope trophics to Carney LSU 

• 1 holothuroid 

• 3 crustaceans 

• 1 fish 

21 March 

AT209 - A successful trawl with ophidioid fishes, holothuroids and ophiuroids typical of depth. 

There were noticeably differences from the shallower station. 

• 62 frozen samples for isotope trophics to Carney LSU 

• 44 holothuroid 

• 10 crustaceans 

• 7 fish 

• 1 bag with 17 seastars and ophiuroids for lab prep

23 March 

WR265 - This was an added station at WR265 to collect additional samples from the ~2,000 m 

bathymetric interval. Difficult to determine precise depth acoustically, but designate 

depth as 1,828 m. Sea state prevented safe trawling operations. Two box cores sieved 

for fauna samples to Carney LSU. Sediment was typical of deep hemipelagics. Fauna 

at 500 micron were very sparse and insufficient biomass was collected for isotope 

analysis. 
31 

BEAM TRAWL NARRATIVE – DCCC CRUISE 

The following is the trawl narrative as taken from the log. Additional trawl information is given 

in Appendix 8. 

Beam Trawl Sampling #1 

Date 5/9/06 

Overall Characterization: 

The trawl came up with a large amount of mud in the bag itself. The mud did contain a fairly 

large amount of fauna, which was sieved to separate the mud from the organisms. 

Some samples of the Psycropodes, Benthodytes typica and B. lingua were further processed 

for muscle tissue. The Psychropodes was also processed for gonad tissue. 

Number of Lots: 79 

Table 7 

Samples from beam trawl #1 

2 Anemones Large Shrimp 

Brisingid arms Pseudostichopus 

Gastropods Psychropodes 

Hermit Crabs Radiella sol 

Hymenaster spp. Scalpe num 

Limpit Sponge 

Ophioroids Sea stars 

Peniagone Vase sponges 

Plant Material Æ Including: Cane, Rhizome, 

Sargasum and Shallow Epifauna 

Benthodytes typica 

Benthodytes lingua 

Fish 

Beam Trawl Sampling #2 

Date 5/11/06 

Overall Characterization: 

This trawl came up with some mud, but significantly less when compared to the first trawl. 

There was also less fauna overall. The Psychropodes, Benthothuria, Mesothuria and 

Anemone were sub-sampled for tissue. The Holothurians were sampled for muscle tissue. 

Number of Lots: 23 
32 

Table 8 

Samples from beam trawl #2 

Benthodytes typical Molpadia blakei 

Bivalves Ophiuroids 

Brachipod Plant Material 

Hermit Crab Psychropodes longicauclata 

Hymenaster spp. Sponges 

Mesothuria 

Beam Trawl Sampling #3 

Date 5/15/06 

Overall Characterization: 

This trawl came up with some mud, along with a fairly large number of fauna. The 

Benthodytes typical, B. lingua and Psychropodes were processed for muscle tissue, and 

Psychropodes were processed for gonad tissue. A fish was also processed for tissue samples. 

Number of Lots: 66 

Table 9 

Samples from beam trawl #3 

Assorted Shells Pseudostichopus spp. 

Radiella sol Paroriza spp. 

Brisingidae Benthodytes lingua 

Penaids Psychropodes 

Hermit Crab Bulk Mud 

Dytaster spp. Umbellula 

Sea Stars Polycheates 

Fish Hymenaster spp. 

Anemone Molpadia blakei 

Gastropods Ophioroids 

Plant Material 

Beam Trawl Sampling #4 

Date 5/16/06 

Overall Characterization: 

This trawl came up with little mud and relatively few fauna. The Octopus and Benthodytes 

typica were processed for tissue samples, the latter specifically being muscle tissue. 

Number of Lots: 21 
33 

Table 10 

Samples from beam trawl #4 

Sea Stars Holothurian 

Ophiuroids Plant Material 

Umbellula Benthodytes lingua 

Octopus Tripod fish 

Penaid Hard “mud stone” bulk 

Radiella sol Benthodytes typica 

Beam Trawl Sampling #5 

Date 5/21/06 

Overall Characterization: 

This trawl came up with minimal sample suggesting little or no bottom contact, and 

everything was subsequently bagged and frozen as a collective sample. 

Number of Lots: 1 

Entire Sample – penaid and polychelid shrimp 

Beam Trawl Sampling #6 

Date 5/22/06 

Overall Characterization: 

This trawl came up with little mud but a fairly large amount of faunal diversity. Samples 

were frozen whole. 

Number of Lots: 32 

Table 11 

Samples from beam trawl #6 

Iron stone/ Rust scale Unknown 

Rock Penaids 

Wood Ophioroids 

Asteroidea Hermit Crabs 

Bone Shells 

Psychropodes Radiella sol 

Pseudostichopus Molpadia blakei 

Scaphapods Echiuroid 

Bivalves Arca 

Pseudostichopus depressus Viperfish 
34 

Beam Trawl Sampling #7 

Date 5/23/06 

Overall Characterization: 

This trawl came up with net inverted, no mud, and a comparative paucity of fauna. There 

were a large number of Umbellula caught by the lower chain of the trawl net. The Umbellula

specimens were separated between the polyps and the stalks. Other material was frozen 

whole. 

Number of Lots: 24 

Table 12 

Samples from beam trawl #7 

Viperfish Penaids 

Hatchetfish Benthodytes typical 

Pseudostichopus depressus Umbellula 

Beam Trawl Sampling #8 

Date 5/25/06 

Overall Characterization: 

This trawl came up with no mud and a fair number of seemingly different fauna. Samples 

were frozen whole. Numerous small Benthodytes typical were present 

Number of Lots: 25 

Table 13 

Samples from beam trawl #8 

Viperfish Urchins 

Pseudostichopus depressus Braciopods 

Penaids Radiella sol 

Benthodytes typical Holothurian 

Umbellula Sea star 

Mesothuria Molpadia blakei 

Sponge Carridian 

Bivalves Polycheleas 

Beam Trawl Sampling #9 

Date 5/27/06 

Overall Characterization: 

This trawl came up with no mud and a comparatively large number of seemingly different 

fauna. Only the Benthothurian was processed for muscle tissue. Other material was frozen 

whole. 

Number of Lots: 28 
35 

Table 14 

Samples from beam trawl #9 

Penaids Ophiomusiam lymani 

Hermit Crabs Tar 

Brachipod Scaphapods 

Bivalve Benthodytes lingua 

Moldanids Psychropodes 

Sponges Asteroidea 

Plant Material Molpadia blakei 

Echiurans Benthodytes typical 

Sea pens Benthothuria 

Beam Trawl Sampling #10 

Date 5/30/06 

Overall Characterization: 

This trawl came up with no mud and a comparatively large number of seemingly different 

fauna. All samples were frozen whole. 

Number of Lots: 37 

Table 15 

Samples from beam trawl #10 

Trpodfish Rat-tail fish 

Sponges Scaphapods 

Hermit Crabs Galatheid 

Bivalves Pyroosome 

Plant Material Hatchetfish 

Tar Viperfish 

Maldanids Sea pens 

Radiella sol Fish 

Benthodytes lingua Dumbo Octopod 

Ophiomusium lymani Squid 

Anemone Pompanao 

Ophiuroids Benthodytes typica 

Penaeids 
37

MACROFAUNA 

This portion of the study is focused on the characterization of communities associated with 

tubeworms, mussels, and corals and their relation to abiotic and biotic factors. These species 

form biogenic habitat that supports a variety of fauna at these sites. Among the goals of this 

portion of the study are to determine the bathymetric and biogeographic patterns in community 

structure, document sites of rare or unique species composition, and examine hypotheses derived 

from previous investigations of succession in upper slope seep communities. This includes 1) a 

more precise characterization of the depth of the shift in community composition and structure 

known to occur somewhere between 800 and 1,800 m; 2) examination of the applicability of 

trends seen in the predominately soft-bottom background communities to hard-grounds, 

including declines in abundance and biomass with depth and a diversity maximum at mid-slope 

depths, and 3) a test of the upper slope seep-community succession model. This model describes 

a progression from bacterial mats to mussel beds harboring a low diversity but high biomass 

community to young tubeworm aggregations with lower biomass but higher diversity as 

background species begin to colonize the seeps, to old tubeworm aggregations with a low 

biomass, low diversity community composed mainly of background species. There is also a 

general trend towards heavier tissue carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values in the associated 

community over time indicating a decline in relative importance of seep primary productivity to 

the non-symbiotic fauna on the upper slope. 

Communities were sampled photographically for the construction of quantitative mosaics, and 

physically sampled using a variety of collection devices. Appropriate sets of images for four 

well-navigated large photomosaics were obtained during the May 2006 Deep Gulf cruise. 

Photomosaics were compiled from overlapping still digital images obtained using a downlooking camera on ALVIN during a series of overlapping parallel lines. These efforts were 

complicated by the inability of Alvin to maintain constant heading and precise track lines. This 

should not be an issue with Jason II. 

Two mosaics were obtained at Atwater Valley 340 (AT-340). One of these covers the largest 

mussel bed (15 x 20 meters) found during the expedition (Figure 9), and also includes scattered 

tubeworm aggregations, carbonate rock and sediment near the periphery of the mussel bed. The 

other AT-340 mosaic followed a long narrow “river” of seep macrofauna with several 

communities of mussels and tubeworms, as well as stained sediment and bacterial mats (the 

“Mussel Brick Road”). Both of these mosaics appear to include at least two species of mussels, 

although we did not physically sample them in 2006 because we did not want to compromise 

analysis of temporal change in these communities between cruises. Both sites will be remosaicked in 2007, chemically surveyed and then carefully sampled to understand the chemical 

requirements and distribution of the mussel species and their associated fauna. 

Another mosaic was obtained at Green Canyon 852 (GC-852) of the “Coral Gardens” site. The 

currents at this site were at the upper limit for this kind of work with Alvin, however five mosaic 

lines were obtained with sufficient navigational information and distinctive substrate that 

spatially explicit re-imaging in 2007 will be possible. The fourth large mosaic was of a 

pogonopheran field at WR-269. These sites will also be re-visited and re-imaged in 2007. Fauna 

and substrates in these mosaics are currently being digitized and will be available for use during 

Jason operations this year. 
Figure 9. Partial photomosaic of five images 

from AT-340 of a large mussel bed. 

Images were also collected for mosaics at Alaminos Canyon 818 (AC-818) of tubeworms and 

urchins, at AT-340 of an urchin and holothurian field, and at AC-601 of the shore of a brine lake. 

In these cases there is insufficient overlap between images for construction of large mosaics, 

however smaller mosaics will be constructed for these sites if they are re-located and re-imaged 

in 2007. 

38
39

Seven quantitative community samples were obtained using the Bushmaster collection device for 

tubeworm-associated communities, and twelve using mussel pots for mussel-associated 

communities (Table 16). Additional samples of a variety of habitats were collected with nets, 

push-cores, grabs of fauna or rock samples with the manipulator arm, and suction samples of 

mobile fauna. Samples from the bushmaster and mussel pots were placed in containers upon 

retrieval of the submersible and the fauna retained on a 1 mm sieve were included in the 

community analyses. Subsamples of the remaining material were taken for meiofauna 

investigations. All tubeworms and mussels were measured and subsamples taken for genetic and 

stable isotope investigations. Macrofauna were sorted into morphospecies on board ship, or were 

preserved in higher taxonomic groups if identification was impractical (primarily small 

polychaete species). All macrofauna that could be reliably sorted into morphospecies on board 

ship were also sampled for isotopic and genetic analyses. 

A total of 95 species of macrofauna were sampled in the 70 collections obtained on the first 

submersible cruise in May 2006 (Table 17). These species included three species of 

vestimentiferan tubeworms, potentially four species of bathymodiolin mussels, and one 

vesicomyid clam. The tubeworms were Escarpia laminata (1,410-3,290 m), and a new species of 

Lamellibrachia (1,175-2,320 m). In addition, preliminary genetic analyses suggest that there is a 

second species of Lamellibrachia present in the collections (Figure 10). The mussels collected 

include Bathymodiolus brooksi (1,080-3,290 m), which was found throughout the sampling 

depth range, B. childressi (525-2,220 m), B. heckerae (2,180-3,290 m), and what appears to be 

another species that we have not yet been able to amplify for genetic analysis. A species of 

Calyptogena, now identified as Calyptogena ponderosa according to its mitochondrial COI 

sequence, was present in collections as deep as 2,750 m extending its known bathymetric range. 

Another morphotype was imaged in AC 818, but no living specimens were recovered in 2006. 

These clams will be targeted for collection and analysis this year. 

Overall, macrofauna communities that were sampled from similar depths were the most similar. 

A few species known from the upper slope sites were present in samples from the shallower sites 

(MC 853 (1,080 m) and GC 600 (1,175 m)) and rarely found in collections as deep as 2,750 m, 

but these species never dominated the communities sampled. The species of seep-associated 

decapod shrimp (Alvinocaris spp.) and galatheid crabs (Munidopsis spp.) found on the lower 

slope were different from those on the upper slope. Alvinocaris muricola was in fact the 

dominant member of the lower slope mussel- and tubeworm-associated communities comprising 

over 50% of the biomass in the communities sampled. A much higher phylogenetic-level change 

in fauna with depth is seen among the dominant seep-associated heterotrophs that feed on 

detritus or organic films. Gastropod molluscs (snails and limpets) are dominant in this category 

above 900 m, while below 1,400 m echinoderms predominate, notably the ophiuroid (brittle star) 

Ophioctenella acies, the synallactid holothuroid (worm-like sea cucumber) Chirodota heheva, 

and heart urchins. The cause for this phylum-level shift from Mollusca to Echinodermata 

remains elusive, but mirrors a similar shift in the non-seep fauna with depth and suggests that 

similar depth related effects influence the composition of both the normal slope communities and 

the seep environments embedded in it. 
40

Table 16 

Quantitative community samples obtained during the 2006 cruise. 

name sample dive site lat long depth 

KC243m1 mp 4176 KC243 26:43.841 92:49.828 1,651 

MC853m1 mp 4178 MC853 28:07.645 89:08.585 1,076 

AT340t1 bm 4179 AT340 27:38.677 88:21.879 2,185 

AT340t2 bm 4180 AT340 27:38.696 88:21.879 2,184 

AT340m1 mp 4181 AT340 27:38.835 88:22.206 2,199 

MC640m1 mp 4182 MC640 28:21.421 88:47.546 1,399 

AT340t3 bm 4183 AT340 27:38.832 88:22.437 2,179 

GC852t1 bm 4186 GC852 27:06.371 91:09.968 1,409 

GC852m1 mp 4186 GC852 27:06.357 91:09.974 1,410 

GC852t2 bm 4187 GC852 27:06.676 91:09.932 1,406 

GC852m2 mp 4187 GC852 27:06.656 91:09.937 1,406 

WR269m1 mp 4191 WR269 26:41.174 91:39.750 1,908 

AC818m1 mp 4192 AC818 26:10.819 94:37.380 2,744 

AC645m1 mpA 4194 AC645 26:21.260 94.29.895 2,208 

AC645m2 mpD 4194 AC645 26:21.310 94:29.919 2,221 

AC818t1 bm 4195 AC818 26:10.811 94:37.379 2,745 

AC601t1 bm 4196 AC601 26:23.419 94:30.862 2,323 

AC645m3 mpA 4197 AC645 26:21.233 94:29.762 2,195 

AC645m4 mpB 4197 AC645 26:21.233 94:29.762 2,195 
41

Table 17 

Species sampled at all sites visited during the 2006 cruise. 

Site MC853 GC600 MC640 GC852 KC243 WR269 AT340 AC645 

Depth 1,080 1,175 1,400 1,410 1,650 1,910 2,180 2,220 

Porifera 

sponges x x 

Cnidaria

Alcyonacean sp. x Anemone spp. x x x x x x Cerianthid sp. x x x Enallopsammia rostrata xGorgonian sp. x x Hydroid spp. x x x Isidella sp. x x Lepidisis sp. xSiphonophore sp. x Stolonifera sp. x x x Zoanthid sp. x 

Platyhelminthes 

unid. flat worm x 

Ne mertea

nemertean sp. x x x x 

Nematoda 

giant nematode sp. x 

Echiura 

Bonilla viridis x

Sipunculida 

Phascolosoma sp. x x x x x x x 

Annelida 

Polychaetea 

Ampharetidae sp. nov. x x Amphiduros sp. Asychis sp. x Bathymoorea sp. x Branchinotogluma sp. x x x x x Branchipolynoe seepensis x x x Capitella sp. x x x x 
Table 17. Species sampled at all sites visited during the 2006 cruise (continued). 

Site MC853 GC600 MC640 GC852 KC243 WR269 AT340 AC645 

Depth 1,080 1,175 1,400 1,410 1,650 1,910 2,180 2,220 

Escarpia laminata x x x x Flabelliderma sp. x x Glycera tesselata x x x x Haploscoloplos sp. x Harmothoe sp. 1 x x x x x x x Harmothoe sp. 2 x Hesciocaeca methanicola x x x x Hesionides sp. xHesionid sp. x x Heteromystides sp. x x Lamellibrachia sp. x x x x x Linopherus sp. x Lumbinereis sp. x x x Maldanid sp. x x Micronephtys sp. x x x Nautilinellid sp. x x Nereis sp. x x x Nicomache sp. 1 x x x Nicomache sp. 2 x x 

42

Notomastus sp. x x x x Parahesione sp. Pholoe sp. Pogonophora spp. x x Polynoella sp. x Prionospio sp. x x x x x x Protomystides sp. x x x Pseudosyllides sp. x Sabellid sp. x Serpu lid sp. Spiochaetopteris sp. x Spionid sp. x Subprotula sp. xSyllides sp. x Terebellides sp. x 
Table 17. Species sampled at all sites visited during the 2006 cruise (continued). 

Site MC853 GC600 MC640 GC852 KC243 WR269 AT340 AC645 

Depth 1,080 1,175 1,400 1,410 1,650 1,910 2,180 2,220 

Timarete sp. x xunid polychaete sp. x x 

Mollusca  Aplacophora 

Aplacophoran sp. x x 

 Polyplacophora 

Ischnochiton sp. x

 Gastropoda 

Cataegis meroglypta x xFucaria sp. Paraleptopsis sp. x x x x x x Phymorhynchus sp. x x 

Slit Limpet x

Turbonilla sp. xunid. pogo snail x 

 Bivalvia 

Bathymodiolus brooksi x x x x x x x Bathymodiolus childressi x x x x xBathymodiouls heckerae 

43

x 

Calyptogena sp. x x Cuspidaria sp. x x x Tamu fisheri (?) x x 

Arthropoda  Crustacea 

Alvinocaris muricola x x x x x x x 

Amphipoda spp. x x x x x 

Bathynomus giganteus xChaceon sp. x

Chirostylid sp. xIsopoda spp. x x x x 

Munisopsis sp. 1 x xMunidopsis sp. x x x x x Parapagurus pilosomanus xPericlemenes sp. x x
Table 17. Species sampled at all sites visited during the 2006 cruise (continued). 

Site MC853 GC600 MC640 GC852 KC243 WR269 AT340 AC645 

Depth 1,080 1,175 1,400 1,410 1,650 1,910 2,180 2,220 

unid. barnacles xunid. galatheid x xunid. shrimp x x 

Brachiopoda 

stalked brachiopod x

Echinodermata  Echinoidea 

unid. urchin x x 

Asteroidea 

unid. sea star 

 Ophiuroidea 

Ophioctenella acies x x x x x x x Ophienigma spinilimbatum x x x x x 

unid. ophiuroid x

 Holothuroidea 

Chirodota heheva x x x 

Chordata 

Pachycara sp. x

# species 30 28 23 39 6 22 44 33 

# samples 5 5 5 13 2 5 15 8 

44
0.1

Escarpia southwardaeEscarpia southwardae

1000

Lamellibrachia juni

Lamellibrachia juni

762

Lamellibrachia juni

Lamellibrachia L7

Lamellibrachia juni

688

944

752

Lamellibrachia juni

Lamellibrachia juni

994

1000

Basibranchia Mariana

Lamellibrachia satsuma

Lamellibrachia satsuma

988

1000

Lamellibrachia barhami

Lamellibrachia barhami478

Lamellibrachia barhami

Lamellibrachia barhami

Lamellibrachia barhami

Lamellibrachia barhamiLamellibrachia barhamiLamellibrachia barhami248257366

322

445

1000

526

Lamellibrachia L5

Lamellibrachia L6

Lamellibrachia L4

727

968

Lamellibrachia 300 m Sagami Bay

Lamellibrachia 2000 m Nanaki Trough

Lamellibrachia columna

523

1000

Lamellibrachia 2 Deep Gulf of Mexico

Lamellibrachia Mediterranean

688

Lamellibrachia 1 Deep Gulf of Mexico

Lamellibrachia 1 Deep Gulf of Mexico

Lamellibrachia 1 Deep Gulf of Mexico

509

815

Lamellibrachia luymesi BH

Lamellibrachia luymesi BH

365

Lamellibrachia luymesi GC354

Lamellibrachia luymesi GC234584

Lamellibrachia luymesi GB425

Lamellibrachia luymesi BP

333

379

516

985

938

439

535

956

Shallow Gulf of Mexico

All Atlantic species

Figure 10. Phylogenetic tree of Siboglinid Polychaetes (tubeworms) in the genus 

Lamellibrachia including the new GoM undescribed species and a new cryptic species that did not appear morphologically distinct during the collection and sorting process. 

45
46

Previously reported bathymetric trends of changing biomass and faunal density in background 

Gulf communities were not apparent in these collections when compared to similar collections 

from the upper slope of the northern Gulf. Density and biomass of fauna in the lower slope 

collections were within the range of those reported from the upper slope seeps, and a mid-slope 

diversity maximum was not apparent in these samples (Figure 11). This is likely due to the more 

significant influence of seep productivity and successional trends in regulating these 

characteristics of hydrocarbon seep communities. 

In the quantitative samples collected, tubeworm aggregations and mussel beds hosted different 

associated communities (Figure 12). Mussel beds contained higher abundances of Ophioctenella 

acies, and tubeworms contained high abundances of two species of capitellid polychaetes, 

Heteromystides sp. and Protomystides sp. Heteromystides sp. was found occupying and 

occasionally filling the tubes of dead tubeworms. Protomystides sp. was found forming small 

“caps” on the tops of E. laminata and occasionally Lamellibrachia sp. and their coelomic 

cavities were filled with blood, presumably from the tubeworms. Further investigations into the 

relationships of these two species to the tubeworms are underway. 

Some successional trends were detected in the communities associated with both tubeworms and 

mussels. Comparisons between mussel bed samples indicated that community similarity was 

most closely correlated to the distance between collections (r = 0.381, p = 0.010) and the average 

size of B. brooksi in the samples (r = 0.350, p = 0.019). In tubeworm aggregations, similar 

communities were found in collections from similar depths (r = 0.496, p < 0.001), although 

average size of E. laminata within an aggregation was also correlated to community similarity (r 

= 0.302, p = 0.028). Mussel beds and tubeworm aggregations composed of smaller individuals 

harbored communities comprised of a greater relative biomass of grazing species (Figure 13). 

However, nearly all tubeworm and mussel communities were dominated in terms of biomass by 

the shrimp Alvinocaris muricola, which made up an average of 51.8% of the biomass in mussel 

communities and 58.7% of the biomass in tubeworm communities. These results suggest that 

within a given site community structure changes as tubeworms and mussels grow over time, 

providing preliminary evidence for the successional progression of communities. However, 

additional replication within sites and verification that small individuals represent younger 

individuals are required to test this hypothesis. Growth rate data and in situ water chemistry to be 

obtained during the second field season will provide much needed information to assist with the 

interpretation of these results. 

Meiofauna were sampled from all dive sites. In this under-sampled group of very small animals 

(those passing through a 1-mm sieve but retained on a 32-μm sieve), numerous undescribed 

species were discovered. Nematoda and Copepoda were the most common taxa, but members of 

the Tanaidacea, Isopoda, and Ostracoda were also found. Among them was one of the largest 

free-living members of the phylum Nematoda ever collected. 
-3500

-3000-2500-2000-1500-1000

-500

0

-101 2

biomass (AFDW/m2)

-3500-3000-2500-2000-1500-1000

-500

0

01234

diversity (H')

-3500-3000-2500-2000-1500-1000

-500

0

01234

density (ind/m2)

-3500-3000-2500-2000-1500-1000

-500

0

0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 

evenness (J')

Figure 11. Density, biomass, diversity and evenness of the communities sampled using quantit

collections devices vs depth of the sites. 

47
48

KC243m1

MC853m1

AT340t1

AT340t2

AT340m1

MC640m1

AT340t3

GC852t1

GC852m1

GC852t2

GC852m2

WR269m1

AC818m1

AC818t1

AC

AC645m3

AC645m4

Figure 12. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling (MDS) ordination of mussel (m) and tub

(t) communities based on Bray-Curtis similarity of fourth-root transformed rabundance data. 
0.0

0.10.20.30.40.50.60.70.80.91.0

MC853m1 AT340m1 GC852m2 KC243m1 GC852m1 AC818m1 AC645m3 MC640m1 WR269m1 AC645m4

proportion of biomass (AFDW) secondary predator primary predator grazer/deposit commensal symbiotic fauna

0.00.10.20.30.40.50.60.70.80.91.0

GC852t1 AC645t2 AT340t2 GC852t2 AC818t1 AT340t3 AC601t1 AT340t1 VB944t1 AC645t1

proportion of biomass (AFDW) sec

primgracomsym

increasing average length of mussels or tubeworms

a b

49

Figure 13. Proportion of biomass in each trophic level in quantitative samples from 2006 field se
50

Other seep-related communities sampled in this study include small “fields” of pogonophorans at 

Walker Ridge (WR269, 1950m) and urchin beds in Atwater Valley (AT340, 2220 m). The fields 

of undescribed pogonophorans were inhabited by the holothurian Chirodota heheva as well as a 

small amphipod and a small gastropod normally found at the ends of the pogonophoran tubes. 

The pogonophorans are being described by our collaborators from France and Austria (S. 

Hourdez and M. Bright). Moderate to high densities of heart urchins were imaged at several 

sites and some of the highest sediment sulfide levels measured during the cruise were associated 

with push cores taken in the urchin fields. The urchins appeared to be plowing through surface 

bacterial mats, exposing dark seep sediments below. Both of these community types are targeted 

for further interdisciplinary study during the 2007 Jason II operations. 

Occasional small colonies of octocorals (‘soft” corals) were present at most of the sites visited, 

and several large colonies of bamboo corals were seen at AC 645. Only one site, Green Canyon 

852 (1410 m) contained hard-grounds extensively colonized by deep-water coral species. Two 

species of scleractinian corals were observed, along with many species of octocorals (Order 

Alcyonacea), including at least two species of bamboo corals (Family Isididae). The ‘Coral 

Garden’ area where these anthozoans were found covers an area approximately 30 m across on 

the shallowest southern end of a large, N-S trending mound that rises from 1,500 to 1,392 m 

characterized by large authigenic carbonate boulders and strong currents. Enallopsammia 

rostrata was collected from the base of a large carbonate boulder at 1,397 m using Alvin. E. 

rostrata is a cosmopolitan species, but this finding extends its range in the Gulf of Mexico from 

the southeastern quadrant of the Gulf near the Straights of Florida. Data provided by our 

collaborator Cheryl Morrison at the USGS indicate that this Gulf E. rostrata individual differs 

from a sample from the Bishop Seamount in the Pacific by four substitutions (0.7 %) at the 

mitochondrial 16S gene, and a congener, E. profunda, by five substitutions (1.04 %). Given the 

generally slow evolutionary rate of mitochondrial genes in scleractinians, this level of 

differentiation of this gene within species (and often within genera) is uncommon, so this result 

suggests we may be dealing with a morphologically cryptic species. Another cosmopolitan 

scleractinian coral species, Madrepora oculata, was observed and photographed, but was not 

sampled. M. oculata is one of the primary deep reef constituents in the eastern Atlantic and 

occurs along the Southeastern U.S. coast, the Western Gulf of Mexico, and in the Indian and 

Pacific Oceans. Both of these cosmopolitan species were found close to their known depth limits 

(1,646 m for E. rostrata and 1,500 m for M. oculata). Only a few physical samples of the corals 

at this site were possible due to the extremely rugged topography of the site and the strong 

currents in the area at the time of the submersible dives. However, several samples of bamboo 

corals were also collected from this site, and although taxonomic identification is not complete, 

sequence data (C. Morrison, USGS) from the 5’ region of the msh1 mitochondrial DNA gene 

allies these samples with the genus Isidella, with a 99% match to an undescribed Isidella species 

from Hawaii. The mosaic lines obtained over the main coral area at this site will guide our 

sampling efforts this year which should also be facilitated by Jason II’s station-holding 

capabilities. 

One of the most challenging aspects of the community sampling in the first field season was the 

presence of extremely large (up to 25 cm in length) mussels that had a tendency to foul the 

opening of the mussel pots. To overcome this problem, a 63 μm mesh nytex liner (similar to the 

liner of the Bushmaster) was fitted to the inside of a coarse-mesh net (the “scoop”) and used to 
sample a number of mussel beds. The manipulator of the submersible dragged the scoop through 

the mussel bed then placed the entire scoop into a biobox and closed the lid. In planning for the 

second field season, the samples obtained by each method were compared to determine if the two 

methods sampled similar communities from the same habitats. There were 8 scoop samples taken 

at 6 sites and 12 mussel pots taken at 8 sites. Scoop samples contained an average of 9.0 species 

and 243 individuals per sample, while mussel pots contained an average of 7.2 species and 79 

individuals per sample, and the scoop sampled species at a greater rate per sample (Figure 14). 

Species sampled in scoop samples but not mussel pots were a small cerianthid anemone, a 

nematode, the polychaetes Hesionides sp., Lumbrineris sp., Syllides sp., a pogonophoran, and a 

mussel-commensal nautillinellid, the gastropods Fucaria sp. and Phymorhynchus sp., the 

bivalves Calyptogena sp. and a species resembling Tamu fisheri. Species in the mussel pot 

samples but not the scoop samples were a platyhelminth, an ampharetid and maldanid 

polychaete, the polychaetes Micronephtys sp. and Nereis sp., the chiton Ischnochiton sp., the 

gastropod Cataegis meroglypta, the crustaceans Bathynomous giganteus, Chaceon sp., and 

multiple species of isopods, an unidentified urchin species, and an unidentified ophiuroid. The 

scoop appeared to sample gastropods and bivalves with greater efficiency including some species 

that have been previously reported as quite common in this depth range. Most of species sampled 

exclusively with the mussel pots are species found at the upper slope seeps (C. meroglypta, B. 

giganteus, Chaceon sp., Ichnochiton sp., and Nereis sp.), resulting from the shallower depth 

range of the mussel pot samples (1050,at MC 853 vs. 1,400 m at GC 852 for the scoop samples). 

Statistical analyses were carried out on relative abundance data (proportion of individuals in each 

species) because not all scoop samples were lined with the finer mesh and not all mussel 

individuals were measured in all scoop samples. Even with these differences in methodology, the 

relative abundance of species was not significantly different between the two sampling devices 

(ANOSIM, Global R = 0.055, P = 0.237). A multidimensional scaling (MDS) ordination 

confirmed this result, where similarity among mussel communities was more highly governed by 

site than by collection method (Figure 15). These results indicate that the scoop samples are a 

sufficient, and possibly superior, sampling method for the mussel beds encountered, particularly 

for the mussel beds composed of large B. brooksi individuals. Both methods will be used in 

concert in 2007 and standardize collections to a measure of mussel shell surface area. 

A total of 12 tubeworm aggregations were successfully stained during field operations in 2006. 

Most of these will be collected using the bushmaster collection device in 2007 and others will be 

collected using Jason’s manipulator for determination of growth rates and ages of the deepoccurring tubeworm species. 

51
0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

0 2 4 6 8 10 12

number of samples

number of additional species

mussel pot

scoop

Figure 14. Species accumulation curves for mussel pot and mussel scoop samples 

showing the number of new species sampled with each additional collection. 

52
KC243m1

MC853m1

AT340m1

MC640m1

GC852m1

GC852m2

WR269m1

AC818m1

AC645m1

AC645m2

AC645m3

AC645m4

AT340s1

AT340s2

AT340s3

MC640s1

GC852s1

AC818s1

AC601s1

AC645s1

Stress: 0.11

Figure 15. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling (MDS) ordination of mussel 

communities sampled with the mussel pot (m) or mussel scoop (s) sampling 

device based on Bray-Curtis similarity of square-root transformed relative 

abundance data. 

53
MICROBIOLOGY/BIOGEOCHEMISTRY 

Water Column Biogeochemistry 

Results and Discussion 

Oxygen and methane concentrations were quantified on board ship. Nutrient concentrations were 

determined within 10 days of returning from the cruise. Other analyses are on-going. All sites 

were characterized by a pronounced oxygen minimum (concentrations <4 mg L-1 O2) in the 

midwater, between about 500 and 1,400 m water depth. This oxygen minimum did not appear to 

correspond to temperature or salinity anamolies, suggesting it resulted from elevated rates of 

biological respiration. Within the oxygen minimum zone, nitrate concentrations peaked, 

suggesting active nitrification in this depth interval. Water column methane concentrations were 

elevated significantly (between 10 nM and 100 μM) compared to the concentration expected 

from equilibrium with atmospheric methane (~ 2 nM). Highest methane concentrations were 

always observed in the deepest samples and the concentrations at depth at AC601 exceeded those 

at GC852 and AT340 by an order of magnitude. At the AC601 site, methane was supersaturated 

throughout the 2,300 m water column, even at the surface, suggesting that this site is a source of 

methane to the atmosphere. 

Methods of sample collection and analysis were presented in the previous report so are not 

repeated here. The water column at all sites examined was thermally stratified and a pronounced 

oxygen minimum zone was observed. At GC852, the oxygen minimum zone was present 

between about 300 and 800m (Figure 16, left panel). In this same zone, nitrate concentrations 

increased, suggesting active water column nitrification (middle panel). Methane concentrations 

were about 100 nM near the bottom, similar to concentrations observed at other sites in the Gulf 

of Mexico, and methane oxidation rates accounted for a turnover of up to 1% of the methane 

pool per day, which is quite high for the oceanic water column (right panel). 

0 50 100 150

0.2 0.7 1.2

MOXCH4

CH4 (μM)

Methane Oxidation (nmol/L/d)

0 5 10 15 20 25

0 5 10 15 20 25 30

Silicate

NO3

Silicate (μ

M)

Nitrate (μM)

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40

0 50 100 150 200 250

0

500

10001500

Temp

O2

Temperature (1⁄4C)

Dissolved Oxygen (μM)

Depth

(m)

CH4 (nM)

Figure 16. Water column biogeochemistry at GC852. 

Similar profiles of oxygen, nitrate and methane were found at the other sites sampled (AT340, 

AC601) but methane concentration and oxidation rates were highest at AC601. There, bottom 

55
water methane concentrations were about 35 μM (as opposed to nM at other sites) and methane 

concentrations were extremely supersaturated throughout the water column. 

Sediment Biogeochemistry 

Results and Discussion 

Most of the geochemical and rate analyses are on-going, but the pH, salinity and C1-C5

concentration data sets are complete as these analyses were conducted on board the ship. 

Salinity and pH 

Cores were categorized as normal to low salinity (35-40 ‰), intermediate salinity (40 to 75 ‰) 

and high salnity (>75‰). Most of the cores collected fell into the normal to low salinity range. 

Three cores (4178-R4 [75 ‰, MC853], 4182-R2 [75‰, MC640] and 4193-R2 [62 ‰, AC601]) 

were categorized as intermediate salinity and six cores were categorized high salinity (4173-Y1 

[122 ‰, AT340], 4178-Y2 [115 ‰, MC853], 4182-Y4 [88 ‰, MC640], 4193-Y1 [90 ‰, 

AC601], 4196-Y5 [90‰, AC601], and 4196-R5 [76‰, AC601]. 

Most of these sediments were extremely sulfidic and exhibited peculiar pH profiles. Core to core 

variability in pH distribution was significant but generally speaking three types of profiles were 

noted. The lowest pH values (down to 6.5) were observed in the high salinity sediments from 

AC601. In intermediate salinity sediments, pH tended to increase with depth, possibly because of 

increased sulfide concentration at depth. In low salinity sediments, a pH maximum was observed 

in the upper 2-4 cm and the pH decreased below that depth. 

Methane Concentrations 

On dive 4173 to AT340, cores were collected near tubeworm bushes and from near a mussel bed. 

Methane concentrations in the pore water near the tubeworm bush were low (< 20 μM), while 

concentrations near the mussel bed were extremely high, up to 3 mM. Most of the cores from 

dive 4174 to GC600 were oil stained. Both sets of cores were collected from white bacterial mats 

but the red set was taken near mussel beds and the yellow set was taken near tubeworms. 

Methane – as well as concentrations of higher alkanes up to C5 – were extremely high (up to 7 

mM CH4) in the yellow cores; concentrations in the red cores were over an order of magnitude 

lower (max ~300 μM). Concentrations of methane in the sediment core collected from mussel 

beds at GC852 (dive 4177) were extremely low (< 20 μM). 

Methane concentrations in the cores from MC853 (dive 4178) were extremely elevated (up to 7.5 

mM). Ethane (but no alkanes >C3) was also detected in these cores. These cores were collected 

from areas of dense white bacterial mats. The first set of cores retrieved from AT340 (dive 4181) 

were from alongside a tubeworm and methane concentrations ranged from 50μM to 1.2 mM. 

Dive 4182 to site MC640 retrieved two sets of cores from bacterial mats alongside brine flows. 

Concentrations of methane in these cores was quite high (up to 6 mM). On dive 4183 to AT340, 

control cores were collected from areas having no oil staining or chemo fauna. The methane 

concentration in these cores was < 8 μM. Another set of cores was collected from an urchin field. 

Methane concentrations here were also low (12 to 40 μM). On dive 4184 to GC600, two sets of 

cores were collected, one from a dead clam bed and one from an area of live clams. Neither set 

of cores had elevated methane concentrations. In fact, in the upper ~10 cm, methane was below 

detection and below there concentrations reached only 10 μM. 

56
Site GC852 was home to deep water corals. Two sets of cores were collected here on dive 4189, 

red cores over ‘gray’ mats with mussel shell debris in area and yellow cores from an area of 

patchy white mat. Methane concentrations in both sets of cores were > 1 mM over the entire 

depth of the core. Dive 4191 was to WR269/270 and cores were retrieved from a Pogonophoran 

field. Methane concentrations increased over depth, reaching 1.5 mM at 6 cm and having a 

maximum concentration of 2.6 mM at 12 cm. Dive 4192 at AC818 retrieved a set of cores from 

an urchin field and a set of cores from a mussel bed. Methane concentrations were low (<50 μM) 

in the upper 10 to 14 cm but reached concentrations of 1.3 to 1.7 mM at depths >18 cm. On dive 

4193 to AC601, three sets of cores were taken. Four control cores were taken at the edge of the 

site. Methane concentration in the control cores was < 5 μM. Cores collected from the bottom 

and edge of the brine lake were extremely supersaturated with methane (concentrations > 1.5 

mM) even though continual degassing was observed during return of the submersible to the 

surface. Methane concentrations in the brine (determined in sub-samples obtained using small 

Niskin bottles) were >1.5 mM. 

Dive 4194 retrieved one set of cores from AC645. Methane concentrations were < 30 μM at all 

depths in this core. Dive 4196 returned to AC601. One set of cores was collected from the ‘floc’ 

zone at the edge of the brine lake. Methane concentration in these cores was high, but did not 

exceed 1 mM. The other set of cores was collected from beneath the brine, about 2 m out into the 

lake. These cores had much higher methane concentrations (up to 3 mM). All cores degassed 

significantly during ascent to the surface. 

All geochemical analyses and rate measurements (for sulfate reduction, anaerobic methane 

oxidation and methanogenesis) have been completed. Not all of the twenty seven sets (a ‘set’ is 

used here to denote 4 to 6 replicate cores) of sediment cores collected (AT340: 5 sets of cores; 

GC600: 4 sets of cores; GC852: 4 sets of cores; MC853: 2 sets of cores; MC640: 3 sets of cores; 

WR269/270: 1 set of cores; AC818: 2 sets of cores; AC645: 2 set of cores and, AC601: 6 sets of 

cores) can be discussed here. Instead, results highlighting differences between sites are 

presented. Both between and within (as a function of habitat) site variability in geochemical 

signatures and microbial activity was observed. At site MC853 (1,070 m water depth), the 

sediments were oily, white microbial mats were common on the sediment surface, and the pore 

water salinity was substantially elevated (to 115‰) and the pH dropped sharly with depth 

(Figure 17). Methane concentrations were around saturation (~1 mM at 1 atm) but were much 

higher at one depth. Sulfate was rapidly depleted from the pore water, likely because of both 

high rates of sulfate reduction and upward advection of sulfate-free brine. Concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide were almost 20 mM at the depth where sulfate concentrations reached zero. 

57
Figure 17. Sediment biogeochemistry from MC853 (1st microbial mat). 

The depth distribution of sulfate reduction (SR) and anaerobic methane oxidation (AOM) were 

similar but SR rates were about 6 times higher than AOM rates. The AOM rates observed at this 

site were among the highest measured on the cruise. 

A second set of cores from MC853, also from a microbial mat, revealed similar geochemical 

signatures and rates of microbial activity (Figure 18). In this core, lower pore water salinities 

were accompanied by a deeper sulfate penetration depth and deeper penetration of the SR zone. 

AOM rates in this core, however, were much lower. 

Figure 18. Sediment biogeochemistry from MC853 (2nd microbial mat). 

The GC600 site (1250m water depth) was also characterized by oil-stained sediments and 

hypersaline pore waters (Figure 19). Sulfate was rapidly depleted, which resulted in very low 

activity rates for sulfate reducing bacteria. Rates of AOM were also low despite high methane 

availability; AOM was likely limited by sulfate. 

58
Figure 19. Sediment biogeochemistry from GC600 (oily sediment). 

Other cores from GC600 (e.g., clam beds) showed different patterns of geochemical distributions 

and microbial activity (Figure 20). Sulfate depletion was very gradual and methane 

concentrations and AOM rates were much lower. 

Figure 20. Sediment biogeochemistry from GC600 (clam bed). 

High rates of AOM were observed in a pogonophoran core from WR269/270 (1,953 m water 

depth) (Figure 21). In this core, the pH increased substantially (from 7.4 to 8.2) with depth. 

Sulfate was rapidly depleted with depth and as sulfate was consumed, hydrogen sulfide 

accumulated. Methane concentrations were quite high in the zone sulfate-free zone. Sulfate 

reduction rates were high but were restricted to the upper few cm where sulfate was available. 

Surprising, AOM rates peaked below this zone where little to no sulfate was available. AOM 

rates in this core represented the highest rates measured on the 2006 cruise. However, because 

this zone was sulfate free, the electron acceptor for AOM must be something other than sulfate; 

we intend to follow up on this on the 2007 cruise. 

59
Figure 21. Sediment biogeochemistry from WR269/270 (pogonophoran meadow). 

Site AT340 (2,180 m water depth) exhibited a variety of sub-habitats, ranging from brine flows, 

to microbial mats to tube work meadows. In sediments adjacent to tube worm bushes, sulfate 

reduction rates were generally high (> 50 nmol SO4

2- reduced cm-3 d-1) but varied a lot with 

depth; AOM rates were extremely low (as were methane concentrations). No sulfate depletion 

was observed despite high rates of SR in the upper sediments, suggesting rapid reoxidation of 

hydrogen sulfide to sulfate (data not shown). At a brine seep, sulfate reduction rates were 

extremely high (>200 nmol SO4

2- reduced cm-3 d-1) but rates were limited by sulfate 

concentrations. Pore water salinities of up to 120 ‰ suggested active upward brine advection 

which limited SR and consequently AOM rates. Methane concentrations were much higher at 

brine sites (data not shown). 

At AC645 (2,210m water depth), another pogonophoran meadow was sampled (Figure 22). In 

contrast to the WR269/370 pogonophoran cores, methane concentrations in these cores were 

very low. A pH minimum was observed in the upper few cm of the sediment, likely reflecting 

sulfide oxidation. Gradual sulfate depletion and accumulation of hydrogen sulfide was observed. 

Rates of SR and AOM in these cores were much lower than those observed at WR 269/2770. 

Figure 22. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC645 (pogonophoran meadow). 

60
Perhaps the most interesting site sampled was the AC601 “Brine Lake”. A series of sediment 

cores was collected away from the brine (“control”), from the bottom of the lake, from the 

outside edge in an urchin meadow, and from the inner edge of the lake. Not surprisingly, 

different patterns of biogeochemical signatures and rates of microbial activity were observed at 

these different sites. 

The control site was far removed from the brine lake (Figure 23). The salinity of the pore water 

was slightly elevated above seawater (36 versus 34 ‰). The elevated pH and methane 

concentration in the upper portion of the cores is related to a sampling artifact—these cores were 

collected prior to sampling in the brine lake and as a result of immersion on the brine, the 

geochemistry in the upper couple of cm is altered. The pH increased slightly with depth and 

methane concentrations were below detection below 5 cm depth. No sulfate depletion was 

observed; rates of SR and AOM were extremely low. 

Figure 23. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC601 (control site). 

The brine in the brine lake was about 90 ‰ and it was methane charged (Figure 24), 

concentrations of up to 1.5 mM were observed despite substantial degassing during return to the 

surface. The pH was about 6.8 and showed little variation over depth. Sulfate was rapidly 

depleted from about 6 mM concentration in the overlying brine to <1 mM at the remaining 

depths. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were less than 1 mM throughout the core. Sulfate 

reduction rates were from 10 to 80 nmol SO4

2- reduced cm-3 d-1 but AOM rates were extremely 

low (< 1 nmol CH4 oxidized cm-3 d-1). Low rates of AOM have been observed at other GOM 

brine sites (Joye et al. in review). 

61
Figure 24. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC601 (brine lake bottom). 

A third set of cores was collected from the outer edge of the brine lake in a field of heart urchins 

(Figure 25). At this site, the pore water salinity was about 40‰, less than half that observed in 

sediments from the bottom of the lake. The pH increased with depth. Methane concentrations 

were high (~ 1 mM) towards the bottom of the core. Sulfate concentration decreased steadily 

with depth, probably as a function of both sulfate reduction and upward advection of sulfate-free 

brine. Sulfate reduction rates were fairly low (about 10 to 20 nmol SO4

2- reduced cm-3 d-1). 

AOM rates were higher in these sediments, though 1:1 coupling between AOM and SR was only 

observed in the deepest sediments (ca. 20 cm depth). 

Figure 25. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC601 (lake outer edge; urchins). 

The final set of cores from this site was collected from the inner edge of the brine lake in a field 

of white precipitate that turned out to be authigenic barite (Figure 26). Here, the pore water 

salinity was about 90‰, similar to that observed in sediments from the bottom of the lake. The 

pH increased with depth from 6.6 at the surface to 6.8 at depth. Methane concentrations were 

high (~ 1 mM) and DIC concentrations were up to 10 mM. Sulfate concentration decreased 

steadily with depth but sulfate remained above the detection limits at most depths. 

Concentrations of hydrogen sulfide were highest between 10 and 20 cm. Sulfate reduction rates 

were extremely high in surface sediments (>1500 nmol SO4

2- reduced cm-3 d-1); these were the 

highest SR rates measured during the 2006 cruise. AOM rates were low in these sediments, 

despite the high CH4 concentrations. 

62
Figure 26. Sediment biogeochemistry from AC601 (lake inner edge; barite). 

Microbiology and Molecular Biology 

Molecular analyses, including CARD-FISH and development of clone libraries, are currently 

under way. Laboratory experiments using ‘live mud’ collected on the cruise are also underway. 

63
PHOTO SURVEYS 

Table 18 is a summation of the photo survey results. The last two columns show Sites (rows) 

totaled by numbers of photographs showing the targeted organisms (Sum) and ranking by 

numbers of photographs showing tubeworms, mussels, and corals (TW, M, C). This table and 

ranking will likely change with additional photo-analysis. The last row of the table contains the 

sum of photos of targeted organisms over the cruise duration. The total number of survey photos 

captured with the bottom in view (BIV) is 10,922. Table 19 lists the 24 sites that drift photo 

surveys and trawls/box cores were taken from the complete list given in Table 20. Table 21

provides the sequence of operations during Legs 1 & 2 of the cruise. The positions of the sites 

were precisely determined by Harry Roberts in consultation with MMS personnel. In the table 

they are designated by lease block number (site). A map of the cruise track is reproduced as 

Figure 27. 

Table 18 

Photo survey summary (BIV – Bottom In View). 

Name Depth 

(m) 

BIV 

photos Brine Bacteria Shells Mussels Tube worms 

Coral Sum TW, 

M, C 

GC852 1448 1054 122 227 84 28 90 37 551 155 

MC640 1404 976 546 548 48 48 1 0 1191 49 

KC243 1610 747 132 80 98 25 6 0 341 31 

AT340 2242 502 153 130 23 13 12 0 331 25 

KC216 1754 802 221 128 8 0 16 0 373 16 

GC600 1249 694 69 350 164 8 4 1 595 13 

KC333 1685 333 20 21 27 3 3 0 74 6 

AT342 2375 516 267 27 15 2 3 0 314 5 

KC129 1691 271 60 27 4 3 0 0 94 3 

KC514 1656 579 99 135 4 1 0 0 239 1 

MC462 983 622 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 

WR268 1862 523 21 68 0 0 27* 0 89 0 

MC981 1300 825 369 407 12 0 0 0 788 0 

GC296 994 766 456 288 0 0 0 0 744 0 

WR269/

WR270 1952 467 120 174 1 0 0 0 295 0 

GC817 1423 515 18 56 5 0 0 0 79 0 

GC767 1586 269 1 69 0 0 0 0 70 0 

GC812 1802 225 7 44 0 0 0 0 51 0 

GC868 

1360-

1460 236 11 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 

SUM 10922 2692 2779 493 131 135 39 6230 305 

65 
Table 19 

Stations occupied during Legs 1 and 2 of the Reconnaissance Cruise. 

Leg Date Site Depth (m) Latitude 

(N) 

Longitude- 

(W) Activity 

1 3/12/2006 KC243 1610 26.750278 92.829167 DCS 

1 3/13/2006 KC333 1685 26.633881 92.687776 DCS 

1 3/13/2006 KC514 1656 26.474008 92.462472 DCS 

1 3/14/2006 KC216 1754 26.771944 92.000333 DCS 

1 3/14/2006 KC129 1691 26.854722 92.913056 DCS 

1 3/15/2006 GC852 1448 27.112500 91.164167 DCS 

1 3/15/2006 GC767 1586 27.204444 91.008333 DCS 

1 3/15/2006 GC812 1802 27.144722 90.967500 DCS 

1 3/16/2006 GC817 1423 27.149294 90.722628 DCS 

1 3/16/2006 GC600 1249 27.366389 90.564167 DCS 

1 3/17/2006 GC296 994 27.671389 90.361111 DCS 

1 3/17/2006 MC981 1300 27.973889 89.295000 DCS 

2 3/19/2006 MC462 983 28.496667 88.883833 DCS 

2 3/19/2006 MC548 1000 28.404987 88.967487 Trawl 

2 3/19/2006 MC685 1500 28.287575 88.739185 Trawl 

2 3/20/2006 MC640 1404 28.355833 88.793056 DCS 

2 3/20/2006 AT340 2242 27.646389 88.365833 DCS 

2 3/20/2006 MC908 2000 28.065796 88.582635 Trawl 

2 3/21/2006 AT342 2375 27.666667 88.269722 DCS 

2 3/21/2006 AT209 2500 27.778787 88.321719 Trawl 

2 3/22/2006 GC868 1360 - 1460 27.090000 90.374444 DCS 

2 3/23/2006 WR269/ 

270 1952 26.684440 91.671389 DCS 

2 3/23/2006 WR265 1820 26.682572 91.885683 Boxcore 

2 3/23/2006 WR268 1862 26.680278 91.755833 DCS 

66 
Table 20 

Sites selected for photo survey by Harry Roberts. 

Lease 

Block 

Depth 

(m) 

Latitude 

(N) 

Longitude 

(S) Comments 

SE21 2891.942 25.948889 -92.9177778 Mound on scarp, good migration pathway 

KC129 1691.64 26.854722 -91.9130556 Bright positive amplitude, subsurface wipeout 

between two salt masses 

KC216 1753.819 26.771944 -92.0033333 Mound, but with not much amplitude 

KC243 1609.954 26.750278 -92.8291667 Mound with a phase reversal 

KC295 1814.17 26.704444 -92.4033333 Not much amplitude expression, but slick and 

good migration route 

KC524 1771.802 26.476667 -91.9758333 Large feature, no positive amplitude, but 

mound with slicks 

WR268 2055.571 26.680278 -91.7558333 Flow site at edge of salt 

WR269 1925.422 26.684444 -91.6713889 Mound #2 (excellent site) 

WR270 1924.507 26.697222 -91.6475 Mud vent (phase reversal) 

MC36 935.736 28.934167 -88.2047222 Edge of “Mickey Ear”, bright amplitude 

MC462 982.6752 28.496667 -88.8838889 Very positive amplitude (good site) 

MC640 1414.882 28.355833 -88.7930556 Positive and negative amplitudes, flows 

MC981 1300.277 27.973889 -89.295 High amplitude, good site 

GC296 994.8672 27.671389 -90.3611111 Shell’s man-made anomaly 

GC600 1248.766 27.366389 -90.5641667 High amplitude, flat, fault-controlled 

GC767 1585.874 27.204444 -91.0083333 Small positive and negative amplitudes 

(slicks) 

GC768 1619.098 27.193611 -90.9688889 Big complex crest of NE amplitudes 

GC812 1801.978 27.144722 -90.9675 Broad mound, flows, in topo. low, but great 

migration paths 

GC852 1448.41 27.1125 -91.1641667 Positive amplitude on top of mound, great 

migration route 

GC868 1811.122 27.09 -90.3744444 Gas hydrate outcrop where BSR is exposed 

(slicks) 

AT340 2242.109 27.646389 -88.3658333 Center of many small amplitudes 

AT342 2405.177 27.666667 -88.2697222 NW high amplitude on flank of circular salt 

structure 

67 
Table 21a 

Operational sequence – Leg I. 

Site Date Start 

Time End Time Activity Depth (m) Comments 

3/10/2006 800 2200 Mobilize Freeport TX 

3/10/2006 2230 0 Transit In route to Keathly Canyon 

3/11/2006 0 2400 Transit Slow speed in heavy seas 

3/12/2006 0 430 Transit Arrival at KC 243 station 

KC243 3/12/2006 430 1600 Preparation Trouble shooting camera strobe 

interface 

KC243A 3/12/2006 1602 1929 Photo-transect 1650 Successful photo-survey of 

KC243A 

3/12/2006 1940 2400 Transit Transit to KC333 

KC333 3/13/2006 0 Photo-transect 

KC514 3/13/2006 Photo-transect 

KC216 3/14/2006 0 545 Photo-survey 

KC216 Knoll with flow 

channels, anomaly on basin 

flank ENE 

3/14/2006 600 900 Underway Transit to KC129 

KC129 3/14/2006 1025 1338 Photo-survey KC129 Anomalies on E flank of 

low mound 

3/14/2006 1500 1600 Meeting Science planning meeting 

3/14/2006 1600 2100 Underway Transit to GC852 

GC852 3/14/2006 2200 0 Survey 1448 Photo survey GC852 

GC852 0 200 Survey GC852-Camera turned off on 

launch. No data 3/15/2006 

GC852 3/15/2006 300 800 Survey 1448 Completed photosurvey of 

GC852 

3/15/2006 830 1130 Underway Transit to GC767 

GC767 3/15/2006 1200 1400 Survey 1586 Completed survey of GC767 

3/15/2006 1430 1600 Underway Transit to GC812 

GC812 3/15/2006 1700 2000 Survey 1802 Completed survey of GC812 

3/15/2006 2000 0 Underway Transit to GC817 

3/16/2006 0 30 Underway Transit to GC817 

GC817 3/16/2006 120 730 Survey 1449 Completed survey of GC817 

3/16/2006 800 930 Underway Transit to GC600 

GC600 3/16/2006 930 1700 Standby Standby while drift camera 

battery recharges 

GC600 3/16/2006 1715 2115 Survey 1187 Completed survey of GC600 

3/16/2006 2215 0 Underway Transit to GC296 

3/17/2006 0 230 Underway Transit to GC296 

GC296 3/17/2006 300 700 Survey 980 Completed survey of GC296 

3/17/2006 730 1400 Underway Transit to MC981 

MC981 3/17/2006 1400 715 Survey 1300 Completed survey of MC981 

3/17/2006 1730 0 Underway Transit to Venice LA 

3/18/2006 0 700 Underway Transit to Venice LA arrive 

0700 

68 
Table 21b 

Operational sequence – Leg II. 

Site Date Start 

Time End Time Activity Depth (m) Comments 

Venice 3/18/2006 700 1630 Crew change Crew change & reprovision 

3/18/2006 1630 0 Underway Transit to MC462 

3/19/2006 0 130 Underway Transit to MC462 

MC462 3/19/2006 200 600 Survey 960 Completed survey of MC462 

3/19/2006 700 900 Underway Transit to MC548 

MC548 3/19/2006 900 1300 Standby Rigging trawl, trawling at 

wrong depth, fixing A-frame 

MC548 3/19/2006 1330 1600 Trawling 1000 Completed trawl station 1 at 

MC548 

3/19/2006 1700 1800 Underway Transit to MC685 

MC685 3/19/2006 1815 2145 Trawling 1500 Attempting trawl at MC685 

3/19/2006 2200 0 Underway Transit to MC640 

MC640 3/20/2006 15 445 Survey 1404 Completed survey of MC640 

3/20/2006 500 1000 Underway Underway to MC908 trawl site 

3/20/2006 1000 1200 Underway 

Transit to AT340 photosurvey 

site. Wait on weather/battery 

charge 

AT340 3/20/2006 1330 1740 Survey 2242 Completed survey of AT340 

site 

MC908 3/20/2006 1800 2200 Box core 2000 Attempt box core at MC908 

AT342 3/21/2006 45 430 Survey 1404 Completed survey of AT342 

3/21/2006 500 1000 Underway Transit to trawl station 

AT209 3/21/2006 1030 1400 Trawling 2500 Completed trawl of AT209 

3/21/2006 1400 0 Underway Transit to GC868 photo station 

ETA 3/22 10:00 

3/22/2006 0 1000 Underway Transit to GC868 

GC868 3/22/2006 1115 1514 Survey 1360-

1460 

Photosurvey GC868-camera 

malfunction, no images, repair 

and repeat 

GC868 3/22/2006 1800 2115 Survey 1360-

1460 

Competed photosurvey of 

GC868 

3/22/2006 2130 0 Underway Transit to WR269 

3/23/2006 0 900 Underway Transit to WR269 

WR269 

WR270 3/23/2006 1000 1400 Survey 1925 Completed survey of WR269/270 combined site 

3/23/2006 1400 Underway 

3/23/2006 1445 Underway Underway Transit to WR265 box core site 

WR265 3/23/2006 1500 2100 Sampling 1820 Took two box cores 

3/23/2006 2100 2130 Underway Transit to WR268 

WR268 3/23/2006 2200 0 Survey 1860 Photosurvey of WR268 

WR268 3/24/2006 0 150 Survey 1860 Completed survey of WR268 

3/24/2006 230 0 Underway Return to Freeport TX 

69 
Figure 27. Route map for Legs 1 (――) and 2 (――) of the Reconnaissance cruise. 

Image Analysis Progress 

Down-looking Camera 

Approximately 15000 images were collected during the May 2006 ALVIN cruise. A large 

fraction of these were taken with a vertically oriented camera (D-cam) and strobe system 

mounted below the work basket of ALVIN. The logistic details of image collections were 

detailed the cruise report. Briefly stated, the camera was triggered by an interval-circuit, taking 

pictures every 10 seconds. Each digital image was recorded with a time stamp, which in turn can 

be correlated with the navigation information recorded by the submarine. Because the camera 

was oriented vertically, the area covered in each photograph is a regular geometric function of 

the altitude of the camera when the photograph was taken. Given that most of the photographs 

were taken close to the bottom with clear visibility and adequate lighting, the major biological 

and geological features of the seafloor can be reliably distinguished. So the photographic 

records are way to examine the distribution and abundance of these features. However, there are 

70 
issues that need to be addressed concerning possible bias in how the images were collected. 

Also, because reviewing and analyzing the images is potentially quite time-consuming, the 

optimal level of effort that should be allocated to this task needs to be decided. The images have 

been under review in MacDonald’s lab at Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi. Results in 

progress are summarized in the following paragraphs. 

Complete Counts 

In this approach, all fauna and significant bottom features were counted and measured, using a 

standardized set of descriptors. Taxonomic identification was to nearest practical taxon for the 

running measurements, but individual species were noted. Depending on the category of feature, 

three different quantifications were used. Presence-absence, the simplest quantification simply 

denoted that a particular species or feature was noted in a given photograph. Counts attempted 

to count individuals of a given species in each photograph. For area measurement, the analyst 

outlined the area of a given fauna and measured the number of image pixels in the outlined area. 

In all cases, care had to be taken when photographs overlapped so as to avoid double 

measurements. Image analysis was carried using Image-J, a publicly available image-processing 

suite maintained by the National Institutes of Health. Figure 28 shows how all three 

measurement types were compiled for a given image. The upper panel shows a photograph 

taken when the submarine was fairly high off the bottom. The large section of the bottom 

marked off had been analyzed in the previous image and was excluded from further counts. The 

lower panel show the next photograph in the sequence taken when submarine approach more 

closely to the bottom. In this image, the portion that had been scored in the previous image is 

again marked off and only the new bottom are is counted or measured. 

The area covered by the major chemosynthetic fauna—tube worms, mussels, or clams—was 

outlined in Image-J and the pixel counts from each outline were noted. All counts and areas 

were compiled in a spreadsheet where each image was assigned to a row and the categories were 

compiled in columns. Areas were estimated based on the altitude of the submarine when the 

photo was taken, given the acceptance angles of the camera used. Table 22 summarizes results 

from the complete counts at three sites (AT340, AC601, and AC645). 

Table 23 shows the progress toward completion of the ALVIN images. In practice, the complete 

count method proved very time-consuming and is probably not practical for the entire image data 

set. Additionally, review of the image collection has revealed issues of navigation and questions 

regarding sampling bias. The methodology will prove useful when unbiased photographic 

samples are collected with Jason. 

In order to complete the review of all the ALVIN images, the less time-consuming approach of 

simply noting presence-absence of fauna with qualitative designations for abundance will 

probably have to be adopted. 

71 
Figure 28. Example images analyzed for complete coverage. 

72 
Table 22 

Summary results for exhaustive image analysis. 

D4181 (AT340) D4193 (AC601) D4194 (AC645) 

Total 

images 

Total 

area m2 

Total 

images 

Total 

area m2 

Total 

images 

Total 

area m2 

582 2842.56 640 4406.38 900 8704.84 

Category type Per Image Dive total Per Image Dive total Per Image Dive total 

brinepool; MSR 0.00 2.96 405.43 0.00 

brinechannel; MSR 0.00 0.83 0.83 0.00 0.00 

brinespot P/A 4.47% 26 0.03 18 5.00% 45 

brinepoolmass P/A 0.00% 0 0.00 1 

pooledge; MSR 0.89 4.47 6.37 720.07 0.00 

mudpool; MSR 0.00 3.06 3.06 0.00 

shellmslsingle P/A 10.14% 59 5.00% 32 8.33% 75 

shellmslcluster P/A 28.52% 166 0.00% 0 11.67% 105 

carb_rubble MSR 1.78 28.42 0.00 0.00 

carb_low_relief MSR 1.49 392.59 0.63 3.79 3.49 815.79 

carb_high_relief MSR 3.00 6.01 0.00 9.75 204.72 

bac_mat_TOTAL MSR 0.03 0.53 0.35 2.78 0.26 6.23 

tbw single MSR 0.02 2 0.01 0 0.04 4.70 

tbw cluster MSR 1.04 101.67 1.16 8.14 3.48 821.07 

tbw cluster or single CNT 27.99 5962 11.13 334 82.41 28433 

Pogos MSR 0.43 5 0.19 3 1.28 36.80 

Alcyonacea CNT 0 2.20 22 1.12 47 

Zoantharia CNT 1.00 1 0 0 

Actinaria CNT 1.08 14 2.55 28 7.89 71 

Vesicomyidae MSR 0.00 0.00 0.00 

Bathymodiolus_single P/A 0.17% 1 3.60 18 1.50 3 

Bathymodiolus_cluster CNT 52.09 1198 0 104.05 6243 

Bathymodiolus MSR 3.41 78.04 0.00 0.03 1.71 104.45 

Holothurian CNT 1.30 13 1.13 53 1.19 62 

Echinoidea CNT 1.83 11 5.53 177 2.00 2 

Gastropoda CNT 2.11 19 1.00 14 1.00 10 

Asteroidea CNT 1.00 5 1.00 1 1.00 3 

Ophiuroidea CNT 1.00 2 0 1.00 1 

Caridea CNT 10.71 1489 1.39 53 11.66 1702 

Brachyura CNT 1.00 1 0 1.00 1 

Anomura CNT 1.00 1 0 0 

Galatheid CNT 3.56 637 1.10 11 2.65 381 

Ostracoda CNT 0 0 0 

Amphipods CNT 0 217.62 2829 0 

Cnidarian CNT 0 0 0 

Fish CNT 1 4 1.00 6 1.00 8 

trash P/A 1.37% 8 2.97% 19 1.78% 16 

73 
Table 23 

Progress toward completion of image analysis of the down-looking camera images collected 

with ALVIN in the May 2006 cruise. 

Site Dive Total 

Images 

Images 

Completed 

Staff hours Average 

Min/Image 

AC601 D4193 640 640 49.9 4.7 

AC645 D4194 1005 1005 137.6 8.2 

AC818 D4192 475 

 D4195 1775 

AT340 D4173 412 

 D4179 954 

 D4180 620 

 D4181 932 423 40.2 5.7 

 D4183 514 81 12.6 9.3 

GC600 D4174 755 

 D4184 785 

GC852 D4177 300 

 D4185 949 

 D4186 688 

 D4187 1077 

 D4189 472 

 D4190 248 

KC243 D4186 1265 

 D4176 115 

MC640 D4182 932 174 25 8.6 

WR269 D4175 184 184 35 11.4 

 D4191 559 367 55 9.0 

74 
RECONNAISANCE CRUISE – SITE CHARACTERIZATION AND EVALUATION 

Keathley Canyon 243 

This station is situated on a level area on a southwest oriented slope at approximately 1,610 m 

depths. The DSC reached the bottom and at 16:10 hrs on 12 March and collected images with a 

12 second repeat rate until 19:13 hrs. A total of 747 images were collected with the bottom in 

view and acceptable navigation. The site showed good evidence for development of 

chemosynthetic communities including extensive bacteria mats, scattered and concentrated dead 

shells, and small patches of living mussels. Tube worms were observed as solitary individuals or 

small clusters in six photographs. Geological indications of seepage included extensive brinestaining and patches of carbonate. This site should be considered as a good candidate for 

additional study (Figures 29 and 30). 

DSCN4328.JPG DSCN4558.JPG 

Figure 29. Representative photography from KC243. 

75 
Figure 30. Survey results from KC243 station. 

Keathley Canyon 333 

This station is situated on the crest and eastern flank of a low mound a depths from 1650 to 1720 

m. The DCS reached bottom at 03:03 hrs on 13 March and collected images with a 12 second 

repeat rate until 04:33 hrs. A total of 267 images were collected with the bottom in view and 

acceptable navigation. The site showed some evidence for development of chemosynthetic 

communities including occasional bacteria mats, scattered and scattered dead shells, and a few 

solitary mussels. Tube worms were observed as a solitary individuals in three (3) photographs. 

Geological indications of seepage included extensive brine-staining and of carbonate boulders. 

This site should be considered as a marginal candidate for additional study (Figures 31 and 32). 

76 
DSCN5319.JPG DSCN5343.JPG (clipped, color adjust) 

Figure 31. Representative photography from KC333. 

Figure 32. Survey results from KC333. 

Keathley Canyon 216 

This station is situated on the crest and the steeply sloping eastern flank of a mound at 1750 m. 

The DCS reached bottom at 00:42 hrs on 14 March and collected images with a 10 second repeat 

rate until 05:47 hrs. A total of 802 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable 

navigation. The site appears to be an active mud volcano. It showed some scant evidence for 

development of chemosynthetic communities, with fauna limited to bacteria, dead shells, and a 

few solitary mussels. Tube worms were photographed as solitary individuals associated with 

77 
carbonate outcrops in the eastern portion of the site. Geological indications of active fluid flow 

included extensive brine-staining, large mud flows, and disturbed sediments. The eastern portion 

of the site featured more extensive brine and bacteria covered sediments and numerous solitary 

shells. This site should be considered as a marginal candidate for additional study (Figures 33 

and 34). 

DSCN9017.JPG DSCN7748.JPG 

Figure 33. Representative photography from KC216. Left shows brine flow with bacteria 

and possible carbonate crust. Right shows solitary tube worm attached to 

carbonate outcrop (see arrow). 

Keathley Canyon 129 

This station is situated on the crest and the gradual sloping eastern and southern flanks of a 

mound at 1675 m. The DCS reached bottom at 12:39 hrs on 14 March and collected images with 

a 12 second repeat rate until 03:14 hrs. Survey operations were hampered by heavy seas. A total 

of 271 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable navigation. The site 

appears to be an active mud volcano. It showed moderate evidence for development of 

chemosynthetic communities, with abundant bacteria, dead shells, and a small mussel clusters. A 

solitary tube worm was possibly photographed associated with carbonate outcrops. Geological 

indications of active fluid flow included extensive brine-staining, large mud flows, and disturbed 

sediments. Carbonates were developed as large jointed pavements in one area. This site should 

be considered as a marginal candidate for additional study (Figures 35 and 36). 

78 
Figure 34. Survey results from the KC216 station. 

DSCN0109.JPG DSCN0154.JPG 

Figure 35. Representative photography from KC129. 

79 
Figure 36. Survey results from KC129 station. 

80 
Green Canyon 852 

This station is arrayed along a steep-sided, north-south oriented ridge at 1450 m. The DCS 

reached bottom at 04:04 hrs on 15 March and collected images with a 12 second repeat rate until 

07:58 hrs. Survey coverage was focused along ridge-crest with relatively favorable sea 

conditions. A total of 1054 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable 

navigation. The site contained the probably the most prolific chemosynthetic community seen 

during the cruise and included a comparatively diverse array of chemosynthetic and 

heterotrophic fauna. Tube worms were widespread, mostly associated with large carbonates. 

Mussels were locally dense at several points. Development of carbonates was impressive and 

clearly indicates prolonged seepage at this site. The combination of hard substrata and 

topographic relief favored the colonies of deepwater coral. Gorgonians of several species were 

widespread. Live bamboo coral was seen at several points and pieces of another species of 

branching coral could be seen on the bottom around the boulders. This site should be considered 

as a high-priority candidate for additional study (Figures 37 and 38). 

DSCN0659.JPG (color adjust) DSCN0845.JPG (color adjust) 

DSCN1166.JPG DSCN1267.JPG (clipped)

Figure 37. Representative photography from GC852. 

81 
Figure 38. Survey results from GC852 station. 

82 
Green Canyon 767 

This station is a series of anomalies on a steep slope between 1480 and 1590 m. The DCS 

reached bottom at 12:01 hrs on 15 March and collected images with a 10 second repeat rate until 

13:58 hrs. A total of 269 images were collected with the bottom in view. The navigation data file 

for this site was lost and it is not possible to navigate the individual bottom images. The site 

appears to be a series of fluid flows on steep slope. It showed extensive bacteria mats and several 

brine-channels. This site should be considered as a poor candidate for additional study (Figures 

39 and 40). 

DSCN2915.JPG DSCN2922.JPG 

Figure 39. Representative photography from GC767. 

Figure 40. Survey results from GC767 station. 

83 
Green Canyon 812 

This station is situated on a low-relief topographic high at a depth of about 1800 m. The DCS 

reached bottom at 18:14 hrs on 15 March and collected images with an 11 second repeat rate 

until 19:24 hrs. A total of 225 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable 

navigation. The site showed extensive brine flows and frequent bacterial mats. Fresh mud flows 

suggest ongoing fluid venting. No chemosynthetic megafauna were seen. This site should be 

considered as a poor candidate for additional study (Figures 41 and 42). 

DSCN3725.JPG DSCN395.JPG (color adjust) 

Figure 41. Representative photography from GC812. 

 

Figure 42. Survey results from GC812 station. 

84 
Green Canyon 817 

This station is situated on a low-relief topographic high at a depth of about 1800 m. The DCS 

reached bottom at 02:53 hrs on 16 March and collected images with an 11 second repeat rate 

until 07:02 hrs. A total of 515 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable 

navigation. Image quality was poor due to aperture setting at f 2.5. The site showed occasional 

bacterial mats. There was a single aggregation of mussels and dead shell with carbonate 

pavement. This site should be considered as a marginal candidate for additional study (Figures

43 and 44). 

DSCN4791JPG DSCN4794.JPG (color adjust) 

Figure 43. Representative photography from GC817. 

Figure 44. Survey results from GC817 station. 

85 
Green Canyon 600 

This station is situated on a low-relief ridge at a depth of about 1250 m. The DCS reached 

bottom at 17:40 hrs on 16 March and collected images with an 11 second repeat rate until 20:44 

hrs. A total of 694 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable navigation. The 

site showed extensive hard ground and carbonate boulders. There were several sparse 

aggregations of tube worms growing under the carbonates. Scattered living mussels and 

extensive dead shells were also seen. Despite the extensive hard ground, no coral colonies were 

observed. This site should be considered as a possible candidate for additional biological study. 

The degree of lithification may have geological significance (Figures 45 and 46). 

DSCN6861JPG DSCN4794.JPG (color adjust) 

Figure 45. Representative photography from GC600. 

Figure 46. Survey results from GC600 station. 

86 
Green Canyon 296 

This station was previously the site of an exploratory well that was shut in due to fluid flow. The 

DCS reached bottom at 03:29 hrs on 17 March and collected images with an 12 second repeat 

rate until 06:30 hrs. A total of 766 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable 

navigation. Calmer seas and level bottom contributed to quality survey collections. The site 

showed extensive areas of mottled-green depressions suggesting brine saturated sediments. The 

well site was characterized by completely featureless bottom, suggesting fluidized mud. 

Occasional bacteria mats were also seen, as was a solitary mussel shell. Notably there were 

abundant fish—many more than seen at previous stations—often two or three individuals in a 

single photograph. This site should be considered as a possible candidate for additional 

biological study to understand what is attracting the fish. However the complete lack of 

chemosynthetic megafauna argues against immediate submersible dives at this site (Figures 47

and 48). 

DSCN8091.JPG (color adjust) DSCN8485.JPG 

Figure 47. Representative photography from GC296. 

Mississippi Canyon 981 

This was a series of anomalies on west to east slope. The DCS reached bottom at 14:47 hrs on 17 

March and collected images with an 12 second repeat rate until 17:44 hrs. A total of 825 images 

were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable navigation. Calmer seas again contributed 

to quality survey collections. The site featured a large mud-filled pool with extensive mud and 

brine flows. Development of bacterial mats was quite impressive over much of the site. 

However, apart from occasional shells and possible solitary tube worms, there was no 

development of a chemosynthetic community. This site is a poor candidate for further study 

(Figures 49 and 50).

87 
Figure 48. Survey results from GC296 station. 

DSCN8850.JPG DSCN8948.JPG 

Figure 49. Representative photography from MC981. 

88 
Figure 50. Survey results from MC981 station. 

Mississippi Canyon 462 

There were two targets at this site: a low mound and a terrace separated by 1.2 km at a depth of 

about 985 m. The DCS reached bottom at 02:25 hrs on 19 March and collected images with a 12 

second repeat rate until 05:59 hrs. A total of 825 images were collected with the bottom in view 

and acceptable navigation. This site showed only isolated indications of seepage. Several 

carbonate outcroppings appeared to have bacteria or precipitate coatings with a few shells. 

Bacteria were also seen on sediment associated with brine staining. This site is a poor candidate 

for further study; however a gorgonian colony on a large carbonate boulder should be noted 

(Figures 51 and 52). 

89 
DSCN0840.JPG (color adjust) DSCN0145.JPG (color adjust) 

Figure 51. Representative photography from MC462. 

Figure 52. Survey results from MC462 station. 

90 
Mississippi Canyon 640 

This site was a large, low-relief mound with numerous geophysical targets distributed across its 

crest. The DCS reached bottom at 00:50 on 20 March and collected images with a 12 second 

repeat rate until 04:11 hrs. Calmer seas and favorable winds provided good survey conditions. A 

total of 976 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable navigation. Many of 

these images occur in sequences that can be mosaicked to cover larger areas. This site showed 

only abundant chemosynthetic fauna—predominantly mussels. Carbonates were low, jointed 

pavements or solitary pieces. Bacteria were also seen associated with brine channels and near 

what appeared to be brine pools. Only one solitary cluster of tube worms was observed and this 

specimen was of an unusual growth form. Large areas of bottom were covered with very 

numerous, small tubes on open sediment. This site is a good candidate for further study (Figures 

53 and 54). 

DSCN1485.JPG DSCN0145.JPG 

DSCN1702.JPG DSCN2202.JPG (color adjust) 

Figure 53. Representative photography from MC640. 

 

91 
Figure 54. Survey results from MC640 station. 

Atwater Valley 340 

This site was two low-relief mounds with numerous geophysical targets distributed down-slope 

to the east with a depth of about 2240 m. The DCS reached bottom at 14:20 hrs on 20 March and 

collected images with a 12 second repeat rate until 16:49 hrs. A total of 502 images were 

collected with the bottom in view and acceptable navigation. This site showed a high diversity of 

chemosynthetic fauna and habitat variations. Brine flows and channels were common. 

Carbonates included large boulders and solitary pieces. Tube worms occurred as individuals or 

tufts, but also as small bushes in one location. The community appears to be spread over a large 

area, implying that there may be yet more variability to discover. This site is an excellent 

candidate for further study (Figures 55 and 56). 

92 
DSCN3155.JPG (color adjust) DSCN3534.JPG (color adjust) 

DSCN3550.JPG DSCN2202.JPG (sharpen) 

Figure 55. Representative photography from AT340. 

 

93 
Figure 56. Survey results from AT340 station. 

Atwater Valley 342 

This site was a low-relief mound with numerous geophysical targets distributed to the east and 

west with a depth of about 2375 m. This site was the deepest surveyed during the photo 

reconnaissance cruise. The DCS reached bottom at 14:20 hrs on 20 March and collected images 

with a 12 second repeat rate until 16:49 hrs. A total of 516 images were collected with the 

bottom in view and acceptable navigation. This site included at least two large brine pools with 

active mud flows and brine channels. Sediment slumping was widespread. Vesicomyid clam 

shells were widespread, but few living individuals could be identified with certainty. Tube 

worms occurred as individuals. Mussels were common, but not locally dense. This site is a good 

candidate for further study (Figures 57 and 58). 

94 
DSCN4429.JPG (color adjust) DSCN4548.JPG (sharpen, color adjust) 

DSCN4429.JPG DSCN4912.JPG 

Figure 57. Representative photography from AT342. 

95 
Figure 58. Survey results from AT342 station. 

96 
Green Canyon 868 

This site was a series of geophysical targets distributed over a very steep slope over a depth 

range of 1360 to 1460 m. The steep slope and worsening sea conditions presented particular 

challenges to effective survey, so the survey track was limited to the upper portion of the 

escarpment. The DCS reached bottom at 18:16 hrs on 22 March and collected images with a 10 

second repeat rate until 19:04 hrs when a minor power malfunction in the DCS prematurely 

ended the survey sequence. A total of 236 images were collected with the bottom in view and 

acceptable navigation covering the major part of the targeted area. The sediment here appeared 

unstable and subject to granular sorting saltation down the visibly steep slope. Apparent small 

brine flows were seen on upper portion of slope. Fauna included a few fish, an isopod, and 

several examples of stalked anemones attached to sediment boluses. This site is a poor candidate 

for further study (Figures 59 and 60). 

DSCN5566.JPG (color adjust) DSCN5768.JPG (clipped) 

Figure 59. Representative photography from GC868. 

97 
Figure 60. Survey results from GC868 station. 

98 
Walker Ridge 269/270 

This site was a series of geophysical targets distributed over sloping terrain at a depth of about 

1950 m. The sea conditions were at the limit of what could be tolerated as can be seen from the 

very numerous bottom strikes where several images in a row would be obscured by sediments. 

The DCS reached bottom at 10:48 hrs on 23 March and collected images with a 10 second repeat 

rate until 13:11 hrs when a minor power malfunction in the DCS prematurely ended the survey 

sequence. A total of 467 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable 

navigation covering the major part of the targeted area. There were definitive indicators of 

seepage at this site including small, but widespread bacterial mats, shells, and several individual 

mussels. This site is a very marginal candidate for further study (Figures 61 and 62). 

DSCN6705.JPG DSCN5768.JPG (color adjust) 

Figure 61. Representative photography from WR269/270. 

99 
Figure 62. Survey results from WR269/270 station. 

100 
Walker Ridge 268 

This site was a low mound with a tight focus of geophysical targets at about 1860 m. Despite 

continued heavy seas, the survey was completed because the target was concentrated and the 

ship could hold station in a tight radius while the DCS covered the objectives. The DCS reached 

bottom at 22:50 hrs on 23 March and collected images with a 10 second repeat rate until 00: 56 

hrs on 24 March. A total of 523 images were collected with the bottom in view and acceptable 

navigation covering the major part of the targeted area. There were widespread indicators of 

sparse seepage at this site including small bacterial mats, shells, and individual tubes. Some of 

these “tubes” were probably sea whips misclassified as tube worms, but others appeared to be 

solitary pogonophorans. This site is a very marginal candidate for further study. This was the 

final station in the photo reconnaissance cruise (Figures 63 and 64). 

DSCN7539.JPG DSCN5768.JPG (color adjust) 

Figure 63. Representative photography from WR269/270. 

 

101 
Figure 64. Survey results from WR268 station. 

102 
103

DIVE SUMMARY – DCCC CRUISE ALVIN 

Twenty four dives were completed on ALVIN. At some sites, multiple dives were made while at 

other sites only a single dive was completed. Table 24 and Figure 65 summarize the ALVIN 

dive activity. Detailed dive information is presented on the pre-dive planning (Appendix 9) 

samples collected (Appendix 10), dive activities (Appendix 11).

Table 24 

Dive summary 

DIVE_NUM Site Depth(m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean 

4173 AT 340 2216 5/9/2006 14:59 27.64532147 -88.36397849 

4174 GC 600 1250 5/10/2006 14:04 27.37043846 -90.56947755 

4175 WR 269 1950 5/11/2006 16:20 26.68598286 -91.66054682 

4176 KC 243 1610 5/12/2006 14:29 26.73075164 -92.83065783 

4177 GC 852 1450 5/13/2006 15:27 27.10628141 -91.16609942 

4178 MC 853 1070 5/14/2006 14:35 28.12471393 -89.14148176 

4179 AT 340 2200 5/15/2006 14:47 27.64507002 -88.36439901 

4180 AT 340 2200 5/16/2006 16:45 27.64477891 -88.36475654 

4181 AT 340 2200 5/17/2006 16:22 27.64648744 -88.36891570 

4182 MC 640 1410 5/18/2006 15:37 28.35677424 -88.79270267 

4183 AT 340 2175 5/19/2006 14:58 27.64634439 -88.37037384 

4184 GC 600 1250 5/20/2006 14:25 27.36961335 -90.56930234 

4185 GC 852 1410 5/21/2006 14:45 27.10911676 -91.16565528 

4186 GC 852 1410 5/22/2006 15:56 27.10614074 -91.16601572 

4187 GC 852 1410 5/23/2006 14:19 27.11026061 -91.16568461 

4189 GC 852 1410 5/24/2006 16:39 27.11002842 -91.16590412 

4190 GC 852 1410 5/25/2006 14:33 27.10836764 -91.16621835 

4191 WR 269 1950 5/26/2006 15:25 26.68606157 -91.66147458 

4192 AC 818 2740 5/27/2006 16:34 26.18030207 -94.62308449 

4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 14:27 26.39123684 -94.51446418 

4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 14:32 26.35448427 -94.49977357 

4195 AC 818 2740 5/30/2006 14:42 26.18026385 -94.62294105 

4196 AC 601 2330 5/31/2006 15:11 26.39164934 -94.51394832 

4197 AC 645 2200 6/1/2006 14:29 26.35403655 -94.49670376 
[_[_

[_

[_

[_

[_

[_

[_

[_

Gulf of Mexico

Alaminos Canyon Keathley Canyon

Walker Ridge

Green Canyon

Atwater Valley

-100m Mi

-500m

-1000m

-2000m

-2000m

-3000m

LOUISIANA

WR 269:Dive# 4175

MC 853:Dive# 4178

KC 243:Dive# 4176Dive# 4191

GC 600:Dive# 4174Dive# 4184

AC 818:Dive# 4192Dive# 4195

GC 852:Dive# 4177Dive# 4185Dive# 4186Dive# 4187Dive# 4189Dive# 4190

AT 340Dive# 4Dive# 4Dive# 4Dive# 4Dive# 4

AC 645:Dive# 4194Dive# 4197

AC 601:Dive# 4193Dive# 4196

Houma

Galveston

0 1 50 00 Miles

μ RV ATLANTIS Cruise Trac

9 May – 18 May 19 May – 2 June 

Figure 65. Site locations of ALVIN dives. 

104
105

DCC CRUISE – SITE CHARACTERIZATION 

The following section describes site characteristics and geological settings of the dive site 

locations visited during the cruise. Dive maps showing ALVIN’s track and sampling locations, 

as well as representative photographs, are presented as individual figures at each site. The 10 

dive sites are discussed in the chronological order visited, although later dives could have been 

made at the same site (Table 25). 

Table 25. 

Sites characterized listed in chronological order 

 

Site DIVE_NUM Depth(m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean 

AT340 4173 2216 5/9/2006 14:59 27.64532147 -88.36397849 

AT340 4179 2200 5/15/2006 14:47 27.64507002 -88.36439901 

AT340 4180 2200 5/16/2006 16:45 27.64477891 -88.36475654 

AT340 4181 2200 5/17/2006 16:22 27.64648744 -88.36891570 

AT340 4183 2175 5/19/2006 14:58 27.64634439 -88.37037384 

GC600 4174 1250 5/10/2006 14:04 27.37043846 -90.56947755 

GC600 4184 1250 5/20/2006 14:25 27.36961335 -90.56930234 

KC243 4176 1610 5/12/2006 14:29 26.73075164 -92.83065783 

GC852 4177 1450 5/13/2006 15:27 27.10628141 -91.16609942 

GC852 4185 1410 5/21/2006 14:45 27.10911676 -91.16565528 

GC852 4186 1410 5/22/2006 15:56 27.10614074 -91.16601572 

GC852 4187 1410 5/23/2006 14:19 27.11026061 -91.16568461 

GC852 4189 1410 5/24/2006 16:39 27.11002842 -91.16590412 

GC852 4190 1410 5/25/2006 14:33 27.10836764 -91.16621835 

MC640 4182 1410 5/18/2006 15:37 28.35677424 -88.79270267 

MC853 4178 1070 5/14/2006 14:35 28.12471393 -89.14148176 

WR269 4175 1950 5/11/2006 16:20 26.68598286 -91.66054682 

WR269 4191 1950 5/26/2006 15:25 26.68606157 -91.66147458 

AC818 4192 2740 5/27/2006 16:34 26.18030207 -94.62308449 

AC818 4195 2740 5/30/2006 14:42 26.18026385 -94.62294105 

AC601 4193 2340 5/28/2006 14:27 26.39123684 -94.51446418 

AC601 4196 2330 5/31/2006 15:11 26.39164934 -94.51394832 

AC645 4194 2240 5/29/2006 14:32 26.35448427 -94.49977357 

AC645 4197 2200 6/1/2006 14:29 26.35403655 -94.49670376 
Atwater Valley 340 

Geologic Summary of Atwater Valley 340 

The AT340 dive site is geologically characterized as a bathymetric high along the eastern 

extension of Mississippi Canyon where it transitions from a canyon to a submarine fan. The site 

consists of three mounded areas on top of the overall bathymetric high. Geophysical data 

indicate that the feature is supported by salt in the shallow subsurface. Seismic profiles identify a 

clear vertical migration pathway for the flux of fluids and gases to the modern seafloor. This 

pathway is defined by acoustic blanking of the seismic record, suggesting both reflection of 

acoustic energy by hard bottom conditions at the surface and perhaps gas in the subsurface along 

the migration route. The surface reflectivity maps, created by analyzing the first return from the 

seafloor from 3D seismic data, indicate high reflectivity in the areas localized around the three 

mounded features. Five dives have been made on the overall AT340 feature. Three dives 

concentrated on the local mounded area in the SE quadrant. On the 3D seismic surface 

reflectivity maps, this area displayed a complex pattern of high to moderate reflectivity. 

Observations from ALVIN confirm extensive hard bottom conditions that result from authigenic 

carbonate precipitation, a by-product of microbial utilization of seeping hydrocarbons. Inspection 

of these carbonates reveals that they contain abundant mussel shells. In addition, carbonate 

precipitation occurs around the bases of tubeworm bushes. Scattered among the blocks and 

pavements of authigenic carbonate are living mussel beds and tube worm colonies. One site 

named the “mussel brick road” represents an elongate (about 75 m long) and densely packed bed 

of living mussels forming in a joint or separation in the underlying authigenic carbonate 

pavement. Between the blocks of carbonates, clumps of tubeworms, and beds of mussels are 

patches of sediment colonized by urchins (Figure 66), a few soft corals, and other sparsely 

distributed organisms. 

106
Figure 66. Hard urchins were abundant in portions of the AT340 site. 

In the NW quadrant of the AT340 study area, a distinct mound occurs. On surface reflectivity 

maps derived from 3D seismic data, this mound stands out as a very high amplitude feature. Two 

dives on this feature confirm the fact that it is composed almost entirely of hard bottom. 

Inspection of the areas of lithified seafloor shows that the carbonate block and pavements 

(Figure 67) are composed almost entirely of mussel shells, one layer on top of another. 

107
Figure 67. Extensive carbonate pavements indicate protracted seepage. 

Because of this unique construction we named the site “mussel mound.” Many blocks seemed to 

have very little sediment matrix, just mussel shells and binding carbonate cements. Although 

most of the mussel shells did not house live mussels, several patches of live mussels were 

observed at the apex of the mound. Both the crest areas and flanks of the mound were covered 

with tubeworms. Many tubeworm colonies occurred beneath and at the edges of carbonate 

blocks, but free-standing colonies were also present. To the east and off the flank of the mound a 

brine vent is present. Fluidized sediment, brine, and hydrocarbons are being vented at this site 

(Figure 68). 

108
Figure 68. Surface brine flows generate extensive pools and channels that support 

mussel aggregations at AT340. 

Around the vent site and along the flow field there are extensive mussel beds. Seismic profiles 

across the AT340 feature indicate the presence of salt in the relatively shallow subsurface. The 

brine is likely coming from the dissolution of this salt body. 

Site Summary - Atwater Valley 340 

Atwater Valley 340 is a large and complex site with abundant and varied chemosynthetic 

communities spread over a relatively large area. It has the largest mussel beds of any site yet 

visited. Two of these were especially spectacular. One is a solid bed of mixed species and sizes 

of live mussels that we estimate is over 10 m wide and 20 m long, and we nicknamed “Brooksi 

Banks” (Figure 69). The other was a relatively continuous linear bed over 70 m in length that 

was nicknamed the “Mussel Brick Road.” Both of these were imaged intensively enough to 

allow almost complete photographic reconstruction of the entire features. 

109
Figure 69. This down-cam image shows two species of seep mussels in a dense bed. 

Further detailed study of these beds will be especially informative, as this is the one site where 

we have collected both B. heckerae and B. brooksi, the two bathymodioline mussels that harbor 

both methanotrophic and chemoautotrophic symbionts. It appears from the pictures that B. 

childressi is also present in the large mussel bed, but confirmation will await sampling this bed 

in 2007. Both of these features are in the SE quadrant of the site. There are patchy small mussel 

aggregations (of large individuals) in the NE quadrant, and scattered intermediate sized mussel 

beds near the topographic high in the far W edge of the site and in the bottom of what appears to 

be 2 m diameter blowout craters in that area. 

Tubeworms are also very abundant at this site. They occur in large numbers among the large 

carbonate slabs in the SE and W portions of the site. Escarpia laminata is the dominant species 

in the aggregations (“bushes”) sampled and appears to be dominant in most of the aggregations 

seen. However, Lamellibrachia sp is also quite abundant; as large individuals and in small 

groups protruding from underneath and between carbonate slabs and in mixed aggregations with 

E. laminata. In addition to two large areas with abundant tubeworms, several smaller ridges with 

carbonates were also colonized by both species. 

The most dominant megafauna species associated with the tubeworm aggregations was the 

shrimp Alvinocaris muricola. This shrimp species was also abundant in the mussel collections, 

110
co-occuring with the abundant brittle star Ophioctenella acies in this habitat. The B. heckerae 

that were collected also contained the commensal polychaetes Branchipolynoe seepensis and a 

nautillinellid. A large proportion of the E. laminata collected contained a phyllodocid polychaete 

that is likely a blood-sucking parasite. 

Another animal that was abundant (and dominant) in some areas of soft sediment with visual 

evidence of seep impact was a spatangid heart urchin. Several (at least five) beds of these were 

found over the course of the five dives to this site. None of these beds were associated with 

carbonates, but some were close to the other sites or isolated mussel clumps. In areas where the 

sediments around the urchins were stained black and white, the urchins did not appear to be 

moving much. In areas where seepage was less apparent, there were often long trails associated 

with the urchins. 

Few colonial cnidarians were seen at this site. However small gorgonian colonies were present 

near the scattered mussel beds in the NE quadrant of the site and noted on the carbonates in the 

W edge. Isolated whip corals were present in many areas. In some areas a small colonial 

anemone was abundant on tubeworm tubes and dead mussel shells. Individual anemones were 

often noted over non-seep affected sediments and a small crab with an orange anemone was a 

regular site in the vicinity of the active seep areas as was anthropogenic debris (Figure 70). Five 

dives were completed at AT340. Figures 71-75 show activities and dive track of ALVIN. 

Figure 70. Anthropogenic debris like this monofilament line was common at AT340. 

111
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Figure 71. Dive 4173 on 5/9/2006 at an average depth of 2,216 m. 

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AT340: Dive 4179

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Figure 72. Dive 4179 on 5/15/2006 at an average depth of 2,200 m. 
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Figure 73. Dive 4180 on 5/16/2006 at an average depth of 2,200 m. 
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Figure 74. Dive 4181 on 5/17/2006 at an average depth of 2,200 m. 
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Figure 75. Dive 4183 on 5/19/2006 at an average depth of 2,175 m. 
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Green Canyon 600 

Site Summary - Green Canyon 600 

Depth 1,170-1,200 m, explored during ALVIN Dives 4174 and 4184, surveyed during the survey 

cruise. 

Previous data: The GC600 site was selected for consideration as an ALVIN dive site based on 

several lines of evidence, including characteristics determined from seismic data, the presence of 

persistent oil slicks on radarsat data, and photo reconnaissance. The site is located in a water 

depth of approximately 1,180 m on the upper-middle Continental Slope. The overall geometry of 

the area of interest is an elongate NW-SE trending ridge that separates two intraslope basins. The 

3D seismic surface reflectivity maps and accompanying seismic profiles suggest that this is an 

area of very active expulsion of fluids and gases from the deep subsurface. Clear migration 

pathways are visible on the seismic profiles and radarsat images of this part of the Gulf show 

persistent oil slicks originating from the GC600 site. Two areas of high surface reflectivity occur 

at this site, and these were the objective of the ALVIN dives. The area of complex surface 

reflectivity anomalies to the NW center around a localized bathymetric high, the apex of which 

occurs at a water depth of approximately 1,177 m. The second area of high amplitude surface 

reflectivity anomalies occur to the SE and is also a localized mound, but with very subtle 

bathymetric relief. 

Summary of Dive Observations 

This site extends along a NW-SE axis, with about 1 km between the tubeworm area (NW) and 

the clams and mussel pockmarks (SE), Bench Marker 2 (X264, Y912) in the tubeworm area and 

Ian marker 5 (X1426, Y167) in the SE pock-mark area with clams and mussels. 

Geology 

Direct observational data from both photo reconnaissance work using a drift camera system and 

the ALVIN confirms the geologic and biologic complexity of the area. In the areas of high 

surface reflectivity mapped from seismic data, massive hydrocarbon seep-related carbonate 

hardground pavements and isolated blocks occur (Figure 76). 
Figure 76. Massive carbonates and sparse tubeworms are characteristic of the GC600 

site. 

Gas was observed bubbling through cracks in the carbonates on ALVIN Dive 4174. Patches of 

tubeworms and mussels were observed growing out of fissures in the carbonate pavements. 

Beggiatoa mats and small coverings around open burrows, both white and orange, occurred 

throughout the area where pockets of sediment occurred between areas of hardground. 

Pockmarks were observed, some with crude oil bubbling out. Although there were few living 

communities found, mussel and clam shells littered the area of both mound-like anomalies. 

Cnidarians (sea pens, sea feathers, and anemones) were observed on the hard substrates. 

This site corresponds to a low ridge, with carbonate outcrops at the NW corner, and pockmarks 

over most of the area. Some small carbonate outcrops sometimes present on the rims of the 

pockmarks. Due to time limitations, we did not explore the topographic high point. Target 10 

(geo target) had a mud bottom only, target 9 had bacterial mats. Gas was observed bubbling 

through cracks in the carbonates on ALVIN Dive 4174. Pockmarks were observed, some with 

crude oil bubbling out. 

Biology 

The tubeworm area was covered extensively during Dive 4184 while searching for a suitable 

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bush tubeworm for collection. It corresponds to a topographic high, with tubeworms as isolated 

individuals or small groups in cracks. A few bushes were also found. The only species observed 

on the bottom was Lamellibrachia sp. nov. Patches of tubeworms and mussels were observed 

growing out of fissures in the carbonate pavements (Dive 4174). 

Two extensive areas with pockmarks and clams were also covered. Target 11 should have had 

mussels, but none were seen. At the end of the dive (near target 12, described as clams), large 

mussels were seen at the bottom of a pockmark. Gorgonians and other cnidarians (anemones) 

were common close to tubeworms (especially on the NW corner of the tubeworm area) and on 

some carbonate pieces around pockmarks (Figure 77). 

Figure 77. Varieties of soft corals were seen on some of the carbonate boulders, 

but no significant aggregations were observed during the two dives at 

the site. 

 Most of the area surveyed during the dive showed bacterial mats of various sizes. No 

Alvinocaris shrimp were associated to them. The mussel appears to be B. brooksi. The clams 

were Calyptogena ponderosa. 

Mosaic 

No mosaic was done on this site. Two dives were completed at site GC600. Figures 78 and 79 

show the dive track of ALVIN and activities performed during the dives. 

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Figure 78. Dive 4174 on 5/10/2006 at an average depth of 1,250 m. 

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MK# Ian 5

Ben.Mkr #2

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A! Navigation

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GC600: D4184

0 355 710 1,42

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121

Figure 79. Dive 4184 on 5/20/2006 at an average depth of 1,250 m. 
122

Walker Ridge 269 

Geologic Setting for Walker Ridge 269 

The dive site is at the northern edge of a suprasalt intraslope basin on the lower Continental 

Slope, approximately 10 lease blocks away from the Sigsbee Escarpment. The site consists of a 

series of mound-like areas that extend to the east into WR 270. These mounded features are on a 

ridge that separates two very distinct intraslope basins that are floored by salt or salt welds. 

Previous studies, using high quality 3D seismic data, indicate the presence of a well-defined 

bottom simulating reflector (BSR) that cuts across stratigraphic reflectors of the basin fill to the 

south of the area of interest. This feature, which is interpreted to indicate the base of the gas 

hydrate stability zone, appears to have free gas trapped beneath the BSR. The mounds on the 

modern seafloor are updips of the interpreted gas hydrates and associated free gas. It appears that 

gas is bypassing the gas hydrate stability zone along permeable beds that are upturned along the 

basin margin. The topographic buildups that are the focal points of our investigation are 

interpreted as being several large expulsion features that have built mounds through the extrusion 

of fluidized sediment along with other products such as hydrocarbons. 

Surface reflectivity maps of the area derived from 3D seismic data suggest the location of several 

active vents (circular low amplitude zones) and associated flows that have localized areas of high 

reflectivity. The areas of high reflectivity are interpreted as regions of local seafloor lithification 

and perhaps fields of clam shells. 

The particular area selected for investigation is characterized by rather subtle topography except 

for a localized mound that rises some 30 m above the surrounding seafloor. The area was 

selected on the basis of its characteristics on geophysical records. The mound-like feature was 

interpreted as a sediment extrusion site and the surrounding areas as overlapping mud flows. The 

surface reflectivity maps suggest that there are some highly reflective zones that surround and 

are located to the west of this central vent feature. These highly reflective zones are usually 

lithified seafloor areas or fields of clam shells in this setting. 

If the vent is active, fluidized mud is frequently found with bacterial mats usually in abundance. 

If the vent is not very active, the central crater sites are usually the sites of complex 

chemosynthetic communities. The fact that the surface reflectivity maps show a low amplitude 

response in the vent area suggests the presence of gas or soft bottom condition. Small islands of 

slightly higher reflectivity suggests variable bottom conditions in the area of the vent and a 

reasonable probability of finding tube worm, mussels, and carbonate rocks. This proved to be the 

case at this site. Even though the flows themselves may not be highly productive in terms of 

chemosynthetic communities, there are “hot spots” in the flows that support communities and 

result in localized cementation of the seafloor. The highly reflective areas to the west of the vent 

site are interpreted as being of this nature. One of the areas is circular and probably represents an 

old venting site. 

If hydrocarbons are still being migrated to the seafloor in this area, it could support a sizeable 

area of chemosynthetic communities. Unfortunately, our dive to explore this area was cut short 

because of weather, and we were not able to ground truth our interpretations of the areas west of 
the main venting site. Our interpretations of venting sites and highly reflective areas near it were 

correct (Figures 80 and 81). 

 

Figure 80. Although there were extensive areas of seep-affected sediments at the 

WR269 site, development of tubeworm or mussels aggregations was very 

restricted. 

123
Figure 81. Surface sediment in the regions of seepage featured a rich assortment of 

pogonophorans, holothurans, and crustaceans. 

Two dives were completed at site WR269. Figures 82 - 83 show the dive track of ALVIN and 

activities performed during the dives 

. 

124
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A! Navigation

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G Recon Targets

WR269: D4175

0 37.5 75 150

Meters

Figure 82. Dive 4175 on 5/11/2006 at an average depth of 1,950 m. 

125
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Pogo Bed

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A! Navigation

!b Observation Note

!P Water Sample"/ Core / Grab Sample

G Recon Targets

WR269: D4191

0 37.5 75 150

Meters

126

Figure 83. Dive 4191 on 5/26/2006 at an average depth of 1,950 m. 
127

Keathley Canyon 243 

Geologic Summary of Keathley Canyon 243 

This site occurs on a ridge separating a large intraslope basin to the south from three smaller 

intraslope basins to the north. Surface reflectivity mapping of 3D seismic data indicates two 

areas of scattered seafloor anomalies along the southeastern and eastern upper flanks of the 

ridge. Seismic profiles across the ridge indicate well-defined and vertically oriented “chimneys” 

that have no internal acoustic character, acoustic “wipe-out zones.” These features are 

interpreted as gas-rich migration pathways for fluids and gases to be transported from the deep 

subsurface to the ocean floor. Photo reconnaissance work prior to the ALVIN cruise confirmed 

the presence of chemosynthetic organisms in the vicinity of the southern anomaly identified from 

3D seismic data. The site is mainly covered by soft sediment. It shows some steep features, with 

drop-offs and pronounced slopes. Exposed carbonate is frequent, sometimes located at the top of 

drop offs. The carbonate was mostly forming large slabs, that were cracked and fissured (Figure

84). 

Figure 84. Relatively few carbonate structures were observed, indicating little flux 

of hydrocarbons. 

The carbonates were mainly rubble at the beginning of the dive. No exposed methane hydrate 

was observed. Small depressions filled with brine were common near mussels and a few other 
places, including near target 3. No rocks were collected. 

Site Summary - Keathley Canyon 243 

Depth 1650-1600 m, Launch target 26 ̊43.812’N, 92 ̊49.835’W. 

This site was explored during ALVIN Dive 4176 only (May 12, 2006) and during the survey 

cruise. 

This site is relatively small. We explored only part of it, due to a torn boot at the beginning of the 

dive and some issues with navigation and target positions. Most of the exploration was centered 

on markers 1 and 2. ALVIN was called to the surface just after reaching target 3 and little of that 

area was explored. Bench Marker 1 (X162, Y 293) was dropped at the beginning of the dive, 

about 160 m W of the mussel beds. A ball marker was dropped on the mussel bed as a reference 

for a mosaic. 

Biology 

Scattered mussel shells were found almost everywhere on the dive track. They were denser in 

some areas. Briny areas were common, with bacterial mats and a restricted area with live 

mussels stretching NW-SE halfway between the targets. These mussels were most often found in 

small patches, with a few larger beds (Figure 85). 

Figure 85. KC243 site had relatively little development of chemosynthetic 

communities, comprising sparse mussel beds for the most part. 

128
Tubeworms were seen on a hand-held camera photo after the dive but none were collected. A 

mussel pot and a mussel scoop in the mussel bed (right next to each other) were collected. The 

only species of Bathymodiolus was B. brooksi. Other species found were: Ophioctenella acies, 

Harmothoe sp., Prionospio sp., Capitella sp., and Nereis sp. Other fauna found were: large round 

sponge, Chaceon affinis, Nematocarcinus, and Paralomis sp. 

One dive was completed at site KC243. Figure 86 shows the dive track of ALVIN and activities 

performed during the dive. 

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-1655

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3-geo

1-mussels

2-tubeworms

MN

MP PC (1)

DPY-BM

MSL bed

DPY ball

End Mosaic

Start Mosaic

Carbonate Pavement

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! KC243: D4176 A Navigation

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0 10 20 5

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Figure 86. Dive 4176 on 5/12/2006 at an average depth of 1,610 m. 

Green Canyon 852 

Geologic Setting - Green Canyon 852 

The GC852 site is one of the most diverse on our dive schedule. The area of interest is a N-S 

oriented elongate mound that rises from the seafloor at the southeastern edge of a middle-to129
lower slope suprasalt sedimentary basin. The top of this mounded region is at a water depth of 

approximately 1,435 m. The overall elongate-mounded area is approximately 2 km long, the 

highest elevation on this feature is at the southern end. This southern area is characterized by a 

localized mound that rises more than 20 m above the northern crest of the overall feature. The 

3D seismic surface reflectivity data indicate that the entire crest of this feature exhibits a high 

amplitude response, suggesting the presence of hard bottom conditions. Scattered highly 

reflective targets are also present around the upper flanks of the ridge-like feature. Profiles of the 

subsurface configuration of this feature indicate acoustically turbid migration pathways to the 

modern seafloor. These vertically oriented acoustic “wipeout zones” are migration routes for 

fluids and gases to the modern seafloor. The structural and stratigraphic framework of the 

subsurfaces focuses these products ( including hydrocarbons) to the GC852 mounded area. 

Photo reconnaissance work in March 2006, as well as direct observations made with the aid of 

ALVIN, indicates the presence of numerous chemosynthetic communities around the mounded 

area in the southern half of the study area. Tubeworms, mussel beds, and carbonate outcrops are 

common around the flanks of the southern mound. Although the ALVIN did not travel to the 

northern end of the N-S trending overall feature, the photo reconnaissance indicated brine seeps 

and carbonates, but no chemosynthetic communities. At the apex of the southern mound, 

carbonate blocks and hardgrounds are common, and soft corals are taking advantage of the hard 

substrates as a place to attach and grow. Bacterial mats seem to be few and far between. 

Site Description - Green Canyon 852 

This site lies on the southern extent of a steep-sided N-S trending elongated mound rising from 

over 1,500 to 1,395 m depth. This feature occurs at the SE edge of a well-defined sedimentary 

basin. The overall mounded area is approximately 2 km long with the highest elevation at the 

southern end. This area of primary interest is characterized by a localized mound that rises more 

than 20 m above the rest of this overall feature. The 3D seismic surface reflectivity data from this 

area indicate that the entire crest of the elongated feature exhibits a high amplitude response 

relative to surrounding seafloor, suggesting the presence of hard bottom conditions. Scattered 

highly reflective targets are concentrated in the vicinity of the southern mound. Profiles of the 

southern end of the elongated mound indicate acoustically turbid migration pathways to the 

modern seafloor. These “wipeout zones” are interpreted as routes for upward transport of fluids 

and gases from the deep subsurface. Submersible operations confirmed the indicators of 

hydrocarbon seepage in this area. These operations were conducted on the crest of this feature in 

an area approximately 650 m N-S and 300 m E-W. The crest of the feature has extensive 

carbonate that appears to have been scoured by currents removing sediment from between 2-3 m 

high carbonate pillars. At the tops of the pillars are numerous types of corals: gorgonians, 

antipatharians, bamboo coral, and scleractinians (Figure 87), as well as numerous individuals of 

a globose soft-ball sized hexactinilid sponge, a few anemones, and a yellow zoanthid sp 

encrusting dead bamboo corals. 

130
Figure 87. Chemosynthetic communities at the GC852 site comprised a series of 

features situated along a 1.5 km ridge line. 

Numerous plumate polychates and hydroids were visible in macrophotos of the carbonates. The 

hard coral Solenosmilia variablis was collected and Madrepora oculata was observed. A 

potential identification of Lophelia pertusa was also made from the photographic record, but this 

could not be confirmed since there were no specimens of this species collected. There was an 

unidentified species of chirostylid crab commonly associated with the soft corals and a species of 

ophionerid brittle star on the gorgonians (Figures 88 and 89). 

131
Figure 88. Northern portion of GC852 with massive carbonates colonized by 

scleractinian corals. 

132
Figure 89. Soft corals included living octocoral polyps and dead skeletons 

colonized by zooanthids. 

Also on top of the mound are some scattered tubeworms and smaller carbonates and an area of 

active oil seepage. On the flanks of the mound were two areas of active seepage and authigentic 

carbonate. One feature is about 80 m to the NE of the corals and consisted of low-lying cracked 

carbonate blocks, occasional methane bubble streams, and oily sediments. Aggregations of both 

species of tubeworms, Escarpia laminata and Lamellibrachia sp., were collected here. Small 

mussel beds nested in carbonate (Figure 90) comprised Bathymodiolus brooksi and B. childressi. 

133
Figure 90. Tubeworm colonies at GC852 were generally sparse assemblages 

attached to carbonate and cemented shells. 

The most common associated fauna were A. muricola and O. acies. Many of the E. laminata

collected contained a species of phyllodocid polychaete, which is an apparent blood-sucking 

parasite. Dead tubeworm tubes often contained this species and another polychaete filling their 

tubes. A second area of active seepage was found approximately 400 m to the south of the corals 

near the top of a ridge extending down from the other sites. The substrate in this area consisted 

of numerous small to medium sized carbonate slabs and boulders and areas of carbonate rubble. 

Numerous transits between the two areas found only mud between the sites. 

The same species noted above were present in the second area. The tubeworms were present as 

scattered individuals as well as small aggregations associated with the carbonates and mussels 

were present in beds among the carbonates as well as in small groups apparently nestled in the 

sediment. Vesicomyid clams were also present in this area, although none were collected. These 

collections extend the depth range of the common upper slope gastropod Cataegis meroglypta, 

the mussel Tamu fisheri, and the methane ice-worm Hesiocaeca methanicola to 1400 m, and 

extends the geographic range of S. variables to the NE from previous Gulf records in the Straits 

of Florida. 

Oil slicks were visible on the sea surface during much of the time ATLANTIS occupied this site. 

Streams of bubbles, probably lined with oil, were observed escaping through beds of mussels at 

134
several positions on the bottom. Gas hydrate was inferred from hard layers encountered while 

collecting push cores and was photographed in an exposed patch with the macro camera. 

Six dives were completed at site GC852. Figures 91 through 96 show the dive track of ALVIN 

and activities performed during the dives. 

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Figure 91. Dive 4177 on 5/13/2006 at an average depth of 1,450 m. 

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Rock, Anemone site

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Figure 92. Dive 4185 on 5/21/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m. 

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Figure 93. Dive 4186 on 5/22/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m. 

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Figure 94. Dive 4187 on 5/23/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m. 

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Figure 95. Dive 4189 on 5/24/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m. 

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Figure 96. Dive 4190 on 5/25/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m. 

140
Mississippi Canyon 853 

Geologic Summary of Mississippi Canyon 853 

The MC853 site consists of an oblong NW-SE trending mound that rises over 100 m above the 

surrounding seafloor. It is located along the eastern margin of the Mississippi Canyon and the 

mound rises above the levee deposits that are a part of this regional geologic feature. The top of 

the mound has a water depth of approximately 1065 m. The 3D seismic surface reflectivity data 

over the mound area describe a pattern of highly reflective seafloor in the middle of the mound 

and scattered high reflectivity targets around the NW and SE parts of the mound top and upper 

flanks. Seismic profiles across the mound indicate a subsurface stratigraphic and structural 

configuration highly influenced by the presence of a large salt mass in the shallow subsurface. 

When viewed in the optimal perspective, it is apparent that the high amplitude surface 

reflectivity zone in the middle of the mound is salt at or extremely close to the seafloor. Even 

though the salt blocks fluid and gas migration to the central part of the mound, there are 

numerous leak points along the edges of the salt mass. This geologic interpretation of the MC853 

mound was verified by both drift camera reconnaissance pictures and direct observations, plus 

sampling from ALVIN. 

A previous ALVIN dive and photo reconnaissance confirmed the existence of chemosynthetic 

communities at the MC853 site. As suggested by the geophysical data, the occurrence of 

mussels, bacterial mats, clams, carbonates, and a few gorgonians on the hard substrates clustered 

away from the center of the mound along the upper flanks of the feature. The center of the 

mound was characterized by hummocky bottom topography with brine seeps and associated 

gullies. Small slumps of mussels and areas of hard bottom with scattered bacterial mats are 

common to this region of the mound. Tubeworms were generally absent from this area, although 

a few isolated tubes were spotted. 

Site Summary - Mississippi Canyon 853 

Depth: 1070 m, Latitude, Longitude: 28° 07.643 N, 89° 08.470 W. Explored during ALVIN 

Dive 4178. Surveyed during the survey cruise. Visited previously by Ian MacDonald in 2000. 

Summary of Dive Observations 

This is the shallowest of the study sites. During the dive, we transited from the N end to the S 

end, across a topographic high (a carbonate mound). Abundant microbial mats, live clams and 

giant mussels were observed consistently along the dive path. Numerous pockmarks and 

carbonate pavements were evident. Exposed gas hydrate was observed in the crater where clams 

were collected towards the end of the dive (S end of the site). 

• Bench Marker (X367, Y1167) near target #1. 

• Marker #2 (X342, Y1171) in epic mat area. 

• Marker #3 (X548, Y706) near mussel collection area 

Biology 

The dominant fauna at this site were mussels, clams, microbial mats and various fish. A few 

gorgonians (several of which were quite large) were also observed. One of the most interesting 

141
creatures we observed during the dive was a large, colorful siphonophore (1525 in dive log), 

which was slurped up by Pat. Live clam tracks were present along most of the dive track 

although (dead) clam shells were just as common. Microbial mats of the sulfide-oxidizing 

bacteria Beggiatoa were observed on sediments characterized by intense seepage-derived 

staining (sediments beneath were black and reducing). Mainly, white mats were observed, but 

small patches of cantaloupe orange Beggiatoa was also observed (these were photo-documented 

during the dive). The light (cantaloupe) orange color of these Beggiatoa is interestingly different 

from the bright orange color that typifies Beggiatoa of the shallow slope. Beggiatoa mats 

occupied areas varying in size between 10s of cm to m in diameter and mat localities were often 

co-inhabited by mussels. Numerous small fish were observed in the mat areas as well. Many of 

these fish were sitting in the sediment surface directly on top of Beggiatoa. In the laboratory, the 

Beggiatoa filaments were observed to be quite small (about 5-10 μm in diameter) compared to 

the giant Beggiatoa (>100 μm in diameter) commonly observed at shallow slope sites. 

During the dive, black streams from topographic highs were assumed to be brine flows, but 

geochemical examination of sediment cores back in the lab showed no evidence of brine (the 

pore water salinity at all sites was ~35). Based on video watched from other sites, the microbial 

mats at this site are the most extensive and prolific of all the sites. Obviously, some factor or 

factors is limiting the development of Beggiatoa populations at sites along the deep slope. 

Numerous dense accumulations of mussels and clams were observed all along the dive track. 

Two mussel pots were attempted during the dive, but only one was successful. Additional mussel 

collections were made with the manipulator arm. Several enormous specimens of B. brooksi 

were recovered using this approach. The scoop sampler was used to recover several live clams of 

various sizes (including some live small (<5 cm long) ones) from two sites. Clams (and mussels) 

were particularly abundant at the topographic highs. These huge pockmarks and carbonate banks 

seems to be areas of intense seepage, which supports dense accumulations of chemosynthetic 

fauna. 

No tubeworms were observed during this dive though tubeworms have been noted previously at 

the site. A more extensive survey of the site with the ROV JASON would aid in determining 

tubeworm abundance at this site. 

One dive was completed at site MC853. Figure 97 shows the dive track of ALVIN and activities 

performed during the dive. 

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Figure 97. Dive 4178 on 5/14/2006 at an average depth of 1,070 m. 
Mississippi Canyon 640 

Geologic Setting - Mississippi Canyon 640 

The Mississippi Canyon 640 (MC640) dive site is located on the upper Continental Slope, east of 

Mississippi Canyon and south of the modern Mississippi “birdfoot” delta. The overall feature is 

roughly circular in plan-view outline. At the top of this larger feature is a mound that rises 

roughly 15 m above the surrounding seafloor, which is at a water depth of 1420 m. The 3D 

seismic surface reflectivity data indicate variable patches of high and low amplitude responses 

over the area of the mound. This pattern suggests that the bottom will be covered with soft mud 

alternating with areas of seafloor hardgrounds, pavements, and other hydrocarbon seep-related 

carbonate blocks. Additional patterns of moderate seabed reflectivity describe linear patterns that 

originate from the mound and radiate from that point to deeper water areas surrounding the 

mound. These features are interpreted as fluidized sediment flows that originate from highly 

productive vents at the top of the circular mound-like feature. This type of geologic feature is 

usually indicative of rapid and episodic expulsion of fluids and gases. These rapid flux systems 

frequently are the sites of oil slicks on the sea surface. These slicks are usually visible in calm 

seas and from radarsat satellite images. Inspection of the seismic profiles across this feature 

reveal a highly focused migration pathway from the deep subsurface. This subsurface 

configuration generally leads to rapid venting and the construction of mud mounds on the 

seafloor. 

Drift camera reconnaissance tracks and direct observations from ALVIN confirm the variability 

of seafloor types at this site, reflecting the variations in patterns observed on the surface 

reflectivity maps. The surface of the mound displays scattered pockmarks and craters of varying 

sizes. These features indicate gas seepage. Some were as much as 10 m in diameter and 2 m 

deep. Frequently, mussels and carbonates are found in the bottoms of these localized vents. 

Scattered exposures of authigenic carbonate account for the very high localized reflectivity 

patterns on our maps made from 3D seismic data. Bacterial mats and clumps of tubeworms 

(Figure 98) are scattered throughout the mound area. 

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Figure 98. Sediments away from the brine pools were carpeted with pogonphora. 

Irregular patches and small streams of brine occur at the mound top and along the upper flanks of 

the feature (Figure 99). 

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Figure 99. Extensive brine pools and flow channels supported bacterial mats and 

mussel colonies at the MC460 site. 

One dive was completed at site MC640. Figure 100 shows the dive track of ALVIN and 

activities performed during the dive. 

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Figure 100. Dive 4182 on 5/18/2006 at an average depth of 1,410 m. 

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Alaminos Canyon 818 

Geologic Summary of Alaminos Canyon 818 

The AC818 site is located seaward of the Sigsbee Escarpment and slightly to the west of 

Alaminos Canyon. The site is associated with the ChevronTexaco Tiger Prospect in a water 

depth of approximately 2750 m. A wellhead is present in the vicinity of a well-developed 

chemosynthetic community discovered on an ROV survey of the immediate wellhead area. The 

regional geology of this region is that of a rather flat area of relatively low reflectivity on 3D 

seismic surface reflectivity data. Immediately to the southwest is a highly reflective area of 

seafloor that corresponds to a submarine fan extending seaward and to the southeast from 

Perdido Canyon. This fan has very high surface reflectivity on 3D seismic reflectivity data and is 

interpreted to be composed largely of sand. The chemosynthetic community site is located on a 

regional fault that trends north-northeast to south-southwest. This fault is clearly defined in 

seismic profile data, but the location of the known chemosynthetic community and perhaps 

others along the fault are not well defined on surface reflectivity data. However, there are small 

and very localized reflective anomalies along the fault like beads on a necklace. The lack of 

seismic response is probably due to the small sizes of the chemosynthetic community sites. 

Direct observation from our first ALVIN dive at the AC818 community site near the wellhead 

confirmed the localized nature of this assemblage of chemosynthetic organisms. The seismic 

data suggest that there should be a number of these small communities distributed along the 

fault. 

Site Description - Alaminos Canyon 818 

Depth 2740-2750 m, Explored during ALVIN Dives 4192 and 4195. 

Previous data: This site is about 50 m north of an exploratory drill site (wellhead left in place 

X555, Y 892). During clean-up surveys with an ROV, a small community was discovered. 

Summary of Dive Observations 

Along a N-S fault, there is an area of diffuse seepage, as evidence by sediment stains, 

pogonophorans, sea urchins, and a relatively small area with tubeworms and mussels. It starts 

about 50 m north of the wellhead and stretches for about 50 m. After a short break, there is a 

second, smaller area north with two small mussel beds and one tubeworm patch. Dive 4195 

explored about 350 m north of the area covered during Dive 4192 and south of the wellhead. 

Bench Marker 1 (X534, Y958) in the tubeworm area. A survey at the bench marker during Dive 

4195 gave X 535, Y 1013. 

This area follows a fault on a north-south axis. Sediment stain and some oil bubbling out were 

observed. Thi site has the most active seepage colonized by tubeworms and mussels and is close 

to exposed carbonate. Carbonate sometimes forms overhangs and pits, with obvious bacterial 

stain. 

Biology 

Sea urchins were very common in the area where the sediment was stained (Figure 101). The 

snail Phymorhynchus were abundant on the stained areas. Beds of dead clam shells were also 

common. No live clams were observed, but five small live individuals were found in a mussel 
scoop sample collected during Dive 4195. The clams that were collected were a different species 

from Calyptogena ponderosa and appear to be the same as observed in the clam beds on the seafloor. Tubeworms (Escarpia laminata) are common in the central area (Figure 102), found close 

to mussels (mainly Bathymodiolus brooksi and a few B. heckerae) and spatangoid sea urchins. 

No Lamellibrachia sp. were observed on either dive. The sea-cucumber Chiridota sp. is very 

abundant in mussel beds. The shrimp collected were Alvinocaris muricola and a single specimen 

of a possibly new Alvinocaris species. Two species of brittle star were collected (Ophioctenella 

acies and Ophienigma spinilimbata). 

Figure 101. AC818 site featured extensive bacterial mats and hard urchin 

aggregations, but relatively few and isolated tubeworm clusters. 

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Figure 102. Tubeworms at the AC818 site were stained to study their growth rate. 

Mosaic 

No mosaic was done on this site, but a series of photos taken during a fly-by covers most of the 

area and served as a base map for the site during the second dive. 

Two dives were completed at site AC818. Figures 103-104 show the dive track of ALVIN and 

activities performed during the dives. 

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Figure 103. Dive 4192 on 5/27/2006 at an average depth of 2,740 m. 
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Figure 104. Dive 4195 on 5/30/2006 at an average depth of 2,740 m. 

152
Alaminos Canyon 601 

Geologic Setting - Alaminos Canyon 601 

Alaminos Canyon is a reentrant into the Sigsbee Escarpment at the base of the Continental Slope 

off western Louisiana-eastern Texas, slightly west of the longitude of the Sabine River. From the 

edge of the Sigsbee Escarpment, the Alaminos Canyon extends landward a distance equivalent to 

6-7 lease blocks. Our dive sites in AC601 are located in approximately the middle of the canyon 

and toward the eastern side. Geologically, the sites are located on the top of a breached anticline 

that generally trends E-W. The base of the Continental Slope is a compressional environment 

forced by the sedimentary loading upslope. Compressional folding characterizes the strata 

underlying the Louann salt sheet that is being thrust out over the basin floor. The AC601 area of 

interest is stratigraphically above one of these compressional features that has been fractured and 

faulted. The fractures and faults that breach the crestal area of the anticlinal structure provide the 

migration pathways for transporting fluids and gases to the modern seafloor. The AC601 block is 

situated directly over the breached anticline crest and consequently, there are a number of welldefined expulsion features in this block. The locations of these features are easily identified on 

3D seismic surface reflectivity maps. On subsurface profiles, clear migration pathways to the 

seafloor can be identified. There are four major reflectivity targets and a number of smaller 

targets in AC601. The anomaly of interest for this project is in the NW corner of the block. It 

was mapped with deep tow side-scan sonar and subbottom data in the 1990s. It became clear 

from analysis of these data that the feature in the NW quadrant of the block was a mounded fluid 

and gas expulsion feature with some evidence of mudflow activity radiating from the crestal area 

of the mound. More recent analysis with 3D seismic data indicates high reflectivity targets 

associated with the mound top and a low amplitude zone to the north of the mound. The high 

amplitude targets at the crest and on the upper flanks of the mound suggest lithification of the 

seafloor which usually indicates inactivity of fluidized sediment venting, an old feature. In 2005, 

a MMS-sponsored ROV survey confirmed the presence of chemosynthetic communities at this 

site. This survey also found that the low amplitude zone to the north of the mound represented a 

sizeable brine lake. 

Site Summary - Alaminos Canyon 601 

There were several mpressions on the biology of the brine lake and environs. The first thing 

noticed after crossing the shoreline and moving over the lake, was an abundance of pelagic sea 

cucumbers. However many of these were swimming very slowly (even for a sea cucumber) and 

many others were not swimming at all. After poking a few it was confirmed that many were 

simply drifting through the “fog.” Occasional fish were seen in a similar state. 

The first impression of the brine lake was that there was a clear interface and shoreline of brine, 

with flock aggregations of various sizes floating at this interface. Over that is a more amorphous 

layer that was refered to as fog. It looks almost smokey. In places, it is thick, in others, especially 

near some shorelines, it is almost non-existent. The brine below the visible interface is quite 

clear in some areas, and very cloudy in others. We possibly stirred it up a bit and it will take time 

to settle. We stay light and move slowly as our “bow wave” is clearly disturbing the interface. 

After stopping to sample, ALVIN gets just heavy enough to settle on the interface, where it floats 

nicely. From here the smokey layer can reach the level of the camera bar, but is sometimes 

below it (about 1.5 m thick). Looking out the port view-port the interface normally can be seen, 

but is sometimes in the murk. There are no signs of sea monkeys in the brine or in the smoke. 

153
The shoreline, intertidal, and beach are shown in Figure 105. It is very similar in appearance to a 

beach, with areas of shell deposition, areas of what looks like sand and rocks, and areas of 

relatively clean beach. The fact that it is littered with trash also brings up images of beaches. 

There are even carbonates in the shallows that are only partially submerged in the brine. The 

brine on the shorelines is so clear that it is sometime hard to see. The bathymetry of the shoreline 

is quite variable on different areas of the lake. On the E. edge a “sand spit” was observed and the 

shallows extended for quite a distance. On the NW edge, it was a relatively steep dropoff. In 

areas where we moved along the shoreline 10 m away from the pool (the N-NE edges), an old 

shoreline (resembling a high tide mark) was clearly visible. Urchins could be seen and, what 

appeared to be pogonophorans, occasionally small mussel clumps, and very occasionally a few 

tubeworms on the shoreline 5-10 m from the pool. 

Figure 105. Shoreline of a brine pool at AC601, which was approximately 150 m in 

diameter. 

Up slope to the south, mud prevailed. The common pelagic sea cucumber was very abundant, 

feeding on the mud. 8-10 were often in view. Near the top of the ridge, the bigger species was 

moderately abundant with scattered smaller ones (3-4 in the field of view at a time). Near the 

tops of the ridges, usually on the flanks, scattered exposed carbonates and tubeworm clumps 

were observed. Many were isolated clumps without visible carbonates (one of these was 

collected, along with pieces of the buried carbonate it was attached to.) Many of the clumps 

154
were heavily colonized with attached fauna. They generally appeared quite old, but occasional 

smaller, non-encrusted aggregations were seen. No live mussels were seen on any carbonates 

outcrops or anywhere except near the pool. The small area of “ridge” to the south did not seem to 

circle the pool, but it is a minor feature and the “ridge” was not very distinct. The sub went up 

when it could and detoured a bit when sonar hits were noticed. Quite a few scattered areas with a 

few nice tubeworm clumps and associated communities and moderate sized carbonate 

outcroppings were observed (Figures 106 and 107). 

Figure 106. Two species of shrimp and epifaunal octocorals on an Escarpia tube 

worm at AC601. 

155
Figure 107. Chemosynthetic fauna at AC601 was restricted to isolated aggregations 

of tubeworms and mussels. 

Two dives were completed at site AC601. Figures 108 and 109 show the dive track of ALVIN 

and activities performed during the dives. 

156
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Figure 108. Dive 4193 on 5/28/2006 at an average depth of 2,330 m. 

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 Figure 109. Dive 4196 on 5/31/2006 at an average depth of 2,330 m. 
159

Alaminos Canyon 645 

Site Description - Alaminos Canyon 645 

Port Observer: Robert Carney, Dive 4194, May 29, 2006, Stbd Observer: Cindy Peterson, Pilot: 

Mark Speer. 

The site has been surveyed as a low 1 km long E-W ridge with topographic highs at the eastern 

and western end. Previous ALVIN dives found abundant tubeworms (Figure 110) and some 

mussel beds associated with fractured carbonate pavement at the eastern high. The purpose of the 

dive was to explore for seeps at the western high and then proceed to the eastern high for 

sampling if sufficient material was not found. 

The larger area is typical deep-sea floor covered with light brown oxidized hemipelagic 

sediments. Conspicuous megafauna included four holothurians (Benthodytes typical, Benthodytes 

lingua, Euphronites sp., and Benthothurian sp.) and a whip-like cnidarian. This non-seep fauna 

was found at targets four and three with no indication of seepage. Transiting to target five, a 

western-facing slope was encountered with fractured carbonate pavement. Tubeworms were 

abundant either as clusters among boulders or as a large field. Mussel beds (Figure 111) were 

also present among and adjacent to the carbonates. 

Figure 110. Study site with marked tubeworms from 1993 was re-sampled during the 

final dive (4197). This specimen is dead, but a second individual was still 

alive and will provide a 13 year data point for growth rates. 
Figure 111. Mussels at AC645 were coated with a white precipitate not seen at other 

sites. 

Sediments were chemically stained. Although west and south of target five coordinates, this area 

of lush growth may represent that location. Progressing up slope to NE additional carbonate 

fields and seep fauna were encountered. Markers left in 1982 were encountered (Figures 112

and 113). Soft corals were scattered along the carbonates (Figure 113). 

160
Figure 112. Community at AC645 was sampled by ALVIN divers in 1993. 

Figure 113. Soft coral colonies were observed on the rocky slope to the 

north of the main sampling station and marker field at AC645. 

161
Progressing NW and downslope towards target two, seep fauna and carbonates became less 

common and large expanses of bottom were again holothuroid and whip seapen dominated. In 

the vicinity of target two, an area of carbonate, tubeworms, dead clams, and mixed live/dead 

mussels was encountered. Following seep fauna sampling, exploration began westward, 

southward, eastward, and northward to determine the extent of the seep area. No new seeps were 

encountered. Only typical non-seep habitats exist surrounding the previously found communities. 

Two dives were completed at site A645. Figures 114 and 115 show the dive track of ALVIN 

and activities performed during the dives. 

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Figure 114. Dive 4194 on 5/29/2006 at an average depth of 2,240 m. 

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Figure 115. Dive 4197 on 6/01/2006 at an average depth of 2,200 m. 
165

AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER VEHICLE (AUV) 

The original dive sites for the 2006 ALVIN cruise were prioritized on the basis of character on 3-

D seismic surface reflectivity maps and associated subsurface profiles coupled with bottom 

photographs acquired on a separate cruise prior to using ALVIN. Great success was achieved 

using this pre-dive analysis of existing 3-D seismic data and acquiring bottom photography on 

transects across critical sites. As a product of these procedures, chemosynthetic communities 

were found at all 10 of the dive sites visited. These sites ranged from the deep eastern Gulf (N 

27 38.8’: W 88 21.7’) to the far western Gulf (N 26 11.0’; W 94 37.4’). 

However, mapping bathymetry of our primary sites using 3-D seismic as a database was not a 

very accurate method, especially if the objective for a detailed bathymetric map was to provide a 

template for spatially constraining samples of chemosynthetic communities, surrounding 

sediments and hard substrates, and other non chemoautotrophic fauna. So, funding was provided 

in the first year of the contract to have four of our key sampling sites mapped in great detail 

using the C&C Technologies Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) in preparation for 

intensive sampling planned for the 2007 field season. The AUV is equipped with 

instrumentation for collecting high-resolution multibeam bathymetry, chirp sonar subbottom 

profiles, and side-scan sonar swaths. These data are well constrained with excellent navigation 

and the data sets are acquired as the AUV travels at a constant height, 40 m, above the seabed. 

The AUV data sets for AT340, GC852, WR 269, and AC 601 were acquired in February 2007. 

Results are being formatted as a database for sampling these four locations during the JASON 

ROV work this summer (June-July, 2007). 

Details of the C&C Technologies Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) are given in the 

AUV Appendices, as are the results of the AUV imaging. 
REFERENCES 

Imaging 

MacDonald, I.R., I. Leifer, R. Sassen, P. Stine, R. Mitchell and N. Guinasso Jr. 2002. "Transfer 

of hydrocarbons from natural seeps to the water column and atmosphere." Geofluids.

2:95-107. 

MacDonald, I.R., J.F. Reilly, Jr., S.E. Best, R. Venkataramaiah, R. Sassen, J. Amos and N.L. 

Guinasso, Jr. 1996. “A remote-sensing inventory of active oil seeps and chemosynthetic 

communities in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Hydrocarbon migration and its nearsurface expression.” D. Schumacher and M. A. Abrams, American Association of 

Petroleum Geologists. Memoir 66:27-37. 

Microbiology/Biogeochemistry 

Albert, D.B., C.S. Martens. 1997. “Determination of low-molecular-weight organic acid 

concentrations in seawater and porewater samples via HPLC.” Marine Chemistry. 

56:27-37. 

Amann, R., L. Krumholz, D.A. Stahl 1990. “Fluorescent-oligonucleotide probing of whole cells 

for determinative, phylogenetic and environmental studies in microbiology.” Journal of 

Bacteriology. 172:762–770. 

Armstrong, P.B., W.B. Lyons, H.E. Gaudette 1979. “Application of formaldoxime colorimetric 

method for the determination of manganese in the pore water of anoxic estuarine 

sediments.” Estuaries. 2:198-201. 

Boetius, A., K. Ravenschlag, C. Schubert, D. Rickert, F. Widdel, A. Gieseke, R. Amann, B.B. 

Jørgensen, U. Witte, O. Pfannkuche 2000. “A marine microbial consortium apparently 

mediating anaerobic oxidation of methane.” Nature. 407:623-626. 

Cline, J.D. 1969. “Spectrophotometric determination of hydrogen sulfide in natural waters.” 

Limnology and Oceanography. 14:454-458. 

Hobbie, J.E., R.J. Daley, S. Jasper (1977. “Use of nuclepore filters for counting bacteria by 

fluorescence microscopy.” Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 33:1225-l 228. 

Joye, S.B., T.M. Connell, L.G. Miller, R. Oremland (1999. “Oxidation of ammonia and methane 

in an alkaline, saline lake.” Limnology and Oceanography. 44:178-188. 

Joye, S.B., B.N. Orcutt, A. Boetius, J.P. Montoya, H. Schulz, M.J. Erickson, S.K. Lugo (2004. 

“The anaerobic oxidation of methane and sulfate reduction in sediments from at Gulf of 

Mexico cold seeps.” Chemical Geology. 205(3-4:219-238. 

Niemann, H., M. Elvert, M. Hovland, B. Orcutt, A.G. Judd, I. Suck, J. Gutt, S. Joye, E. Damm, 

K. Finster, A. Boetius 2005. “Methane emission and consumption at a North Sea gas 

seep Tommeliten area.” Biogeosciences. 2:335-351. 

167
Orcutt, B., A. Boetius, M. Elvert, V. Samarkin, S.B. Joye 2005. “Molecular biogeochemistry of 

sulfate reduction, methanogenesis and the anaerobic oxidation of methane at Gulf of 

Mexico cold seeps.” Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta. 69:4267-4281. 

Sharp, J.H., R. Benner, L. Bennett, C.A. Carlson, R. Dow, S.E. Fitzwater 1993. “A re-evaluation 

of high temperature combustion and chemical oxidation measurements of dissolved 

organic carbon in seawater.” Limnology and Oceanography. 38:1774-1782. 

Solorzano, L. 1969. “Determination of ammonia in natural waters by the phenol hypochlorite 

method.” Limnology and Oceanography. 14:799-801. 

Stookey, L.L. 1970. “Ferrozine – A new spectrophotometric reagent for iron.” Analytical 

Chemistry. 42:779-781. 

Suess, E., M.E. Torres, G. Bohrmann, R.W. Collier, J. Greinert, P. Linke, G. Rehder, A. Trehu, 

K. Walllman, E. Zuleger 1999. “Gas hydrate destabilization: Enhanced dewatering, 

benthic material turnover and large methane plumes at the Cascadia convergent 

margin.” Earth Planet Science Letters. 170:1-15. 

168
APPENDIX A – RECONNAISSANCE CRUISE 

Appendix 1 - Cumulative Event Log 

PROGRESS REPORT 10 to 24 March 2006 

R/V GYRE TDI-Brooks International, Inc 

e-mail: gyre@txcyber.com e-mail: drjmbrooks@aol.com 

Nav Room Iridium:011-881-621-449-529 Phone: 979-696-3634 (Jim Brooks direct) 

Bridge Iridium: 011- 881-621-449-967 Phone: 979-693-3446 (Texas office) 

TDI-Brooks Job# J06553 Cumulative Report MMS Chemo III 

MMS CHEMO III PHOTO RECONNAISSANCE 

GULF OF MEXICO 

Event Log for 10-24 March 06 (UTC = Local) 

Site Start End Activity Depth Comments 

Friday 10 Mar 

Mobilize 0800 2200 Mobilize Freeport TX 

Transit 2230 0000 Transit In route to Keathly Canyon 

Saturday 11 Mar 

Transit 0000 2400 Transit Slow speed in heavy seas 

Sunday 12 Mar 

Transit 0000 0430 Transit Arrival at Keathley Canyon 243 station 

KC243 0430 1600 Preparation Trouble shooting camera strobe interface 

KC243A 1602 1929 Phototransect 1650m Successful photo-survey of KC243A 

Transit 1940 2400 Transit Transit to KC333 

Tuesday 14 Mar 

KC216 0000 0545 Photo survey KC216 Knoll with flow channels, anomaly on 

basin flank ENE 

Transit 0600 0900 Underway Transit to KC129 

KC129 1025 1338 Photo survey KC129 Anomalies on E flank of low mound 

Transit 1500 1600 Meeting Science planning meeting 

Transit 1600 2100 Transit to GC852 

GC852 2200 0000 Survey 1448 Photo survey GC852 

Wednesday 15 March 

GC852 0000 0200 Survey GC852—Camera turned off on launch. No data 

GC852 0300 0800 Survey 1448 Completed photosurvey of GC852 

Transit 0830 1130 Underway Transit to GC767 

GC767 1200 1400 Survey 1586 Completed survey of GC767 

Transit 1430 1600 Underway Transit to GC812 

GC812 1700 2000 Survey 1802 Completed survey of GC812 

Transit 2000 0000 Underway Transit to GC817 

Thursday 16 March 

Transit 0000 0030 Underway Transit to GC817 

GC817 0120 0730 Survey 1449 Completed survey of GC817 

Transit 0800 0930 Underway Transit to GC600 

GC600 0930 1700 Standby Standby while drift camera battery recharges 

GC600 1715 2115 Survey 1187 Completed survey of GC600 

Transit 2215 0000 Underway Transit to GC296 

169
Friday 17 March 

Transit 0000 0230 Underway Transit to GC296 

GC296 0300 0700 Survey 980 Completed survey of GC296 

Transit 0730 1400 Underway Transit to MC981 

MC981 1400 0715 Survey 1300 Completed survey of MC981 

Transit 1730 0000 Underway Transit to Venice LA 

Saturday 18 March 

Transit 0000 0700 Underway Transit to Venice LA arrive 0700 

Venice 0700 1630 Crew change Crew change & reprovision 

Transit 1630 0000 Underway Transit to MC462 

Sunday 19 March 

Transit 0000 0130 Underway Transit to MC462 

MC462 0200 0600 Survey 960 Completed survey of MC462 

Transit 0700 0900 Underway Transit to MC548 

MC548 0900 1300 Standby Rigging trawl, trawling at wrong depth, fixing Aframe 

MC548 1330 1600 Trawling 1000 Completed trawl station 1 at MC548 

Transit 1700 1800 Underway Transit to MC685 

MC685 1815 2145 Trawling 1500 Attempting trawl at MC685 

Transit 2200 0000 Underway Transit to MC640 

Monday 20 March 

MC640 0015 0445 Survey 1404 Completed survey of MC640 

Transit 0500 1000 Underway Underway to MC908 trawl site 

Transit 1000 1200 Underway Transit to AT340 photosurvey site. Wait on 

weather/battery charge 

AT340 1330 1740 Survey 2242 Completed survey of AT340 site 

MC908 1800 2200 Box core 2000 Attempt box core at MC908 

Tuesday 21 March 

AT342 0045 0430 Survey 1404 Completed survey of AT342 

Transit 0500 1000 Underway Transit to trawl station 

AT209 1030 1400 Trawling 2500 Completed trawl of AT209 station 

Transit 1400 0000 Underway Transit to GC868 photo station ETA 3/22 10:00 

Wednesday 22 March 

Transit 0000 1000 Underway Transit to GC868 

GC868 1115 1514 Survey 1360-1460 Photosurvey GC868—camera malfunction, no 

images, repair and repeat 

GC868 1800 2115 Survey 1360-1460 Competed photosurvey of GC868 

Transit 2130 0000 Underway Transit to WR269 

Thursday 23 March 

Transit 0000 0900 Underway Transit to WR269 

WR269/270 1000 1400 Survey 1925 Completed survey of WR269/270 combined site 

Transit 1400 1445 Underway Transit to WR265 box core site 

WR265 1500 2100 Sampling 1820 Took two box cores 

Transit 2100 2130 Underway Transit to WR268 

WR268 2200 0000 Survey 1860 Photosurvey of WR268 

Friday 24 March 

WR268 0000 0150 Survey 1860 Completed survey of WR268 

Transit 0230 0000 Underway Return to Freeport TX 

170
Appendix 2 - Site Occupation Log 

Stations occupied, station adjustments, comments 

Name Latitude Longitude Depth Preliminary comments 

12 March 

KC243 N26° 45 01 W92° 49 45 1610 Designated station offset from amplitude 

anomaly 

KC243A N26° 43 50.23 W92° 49 52.00 1656 Repositioned station to conform to amplitude—

offset ~2km south. 747 survey photos 

13 March 

KC333 N26° 45’ 01” W92° 49’ 45” 1610 Mussel bed, bacterial mats & discolored 

sediments 

KC514 N26° 43’ 50.23” W92° 49’ 52.00” 1656 Small brine channels, isolated shells 

14 March 

KC216 N26° 42.01’ W92° 00.02’ 1754 Brine pools & brine channels, bacterial mats, 

solitary shells 

KC129 N26° 51.28’ W92° 54.78’ 1691 Small brine channels, isolated shells, no 

significant chemo fauna in preliminary review of 

photos 

15 March 

GC852 N27° 06.75’ W91° 09.85’ 1448 Abundant tubeworms and mussels amid large 

carbonate boulders with soft corals. Lush site. 

GC767 N27° 12.27’ W91° 00.51’ 1586 Bacterial mats, brine stained sediments, solitary 

shells 

GC812 N2708° 08.69’ W90° 58.05 1802 Brine stained depressions, bacterial mats, solitary 

tube worms, carbonates. 

16 March 

GC817 N27° 08.96’ W90° 43.36’ 1423 Dense mussel bed, carbonates, bacteria 

GC600 N27° 21.98 W90° 33.85 1249 Carbonates, living & dead clams, mussel shells, 

solitary tubeworms 

17 March 

GC296 N27°40.28’ W90°21.67’ 994 Well site where blow out occurred. Brine-stained 

sediments, large mud pool at well site, sparse 

bacteria 

MC981 N27°58.43’ W89°17.70’ 1300 Anomalies along terrace. Large mud volcano—

mud pool and mud flows. Brine-stained 

sediments bacteria mats, solitary mussel shells. 

19 March 

MC462 N28°29.80 W88°53.03’ 983 Anomalies with bacterial mat, occasional small 

carbonates, sparse bacterial mats 

MC548 N28°24.29’ W88°58.05’ 1000 Good recovery of assorted benthic organisms 

MC685 N28°17.25’ W88°44.35’ 1500 Aborted due to bottom obstruction, sparse 

recovery of organisms 

20 March 

MC640 N28°21.35’ W88°47.58’ 1404 Collected ~1100 bottom in view photos. 

Abundant mussels, extensive brine flows with 

bacteria mats, carbonates, small cluster of tube 

worms. 

AT340 N27°38.78’ W88°21.95’ 2242 About 800 BIV photos showed abundant 

mussels, carbonates, and clusters of tube worms. 

Observed numerous burrowing echinoids, which 

make trails through bacteria mats. 

171
MC908 N28°0395’ W88°34.96’ 2000 Attempted box core. Reached bottom, but core 

did not trigger. 

21 March 

AT342 N27°40.00’ W88°16.18 2375 This was a mud volcano with a 300 m wide 

crater surrounded by steeply sloping sides 

particularly in the S. We collected about 700 

BIV photos, but surveying was challenging 

because the bottom gave very poor returns for 

the altimeters. Observed widespread mud flows 

and a crater filled with muddy fluid. SE side of 

crater had abundant clam shell fields. Observed 

an area of brine-stained sediments with bacterial 

mats and a cluster of mussels. 

AT209 N27°46.73’ W88°19.30’ 2500 Good collection of assorted deep-sea fauna. 

Abundant ophiuroids and holothuroids. Several 

fish and crustaceans. 

22 March 

GC868 N27°06.26’ W90°22.59’ 1360-

1460 

This station was a series of anomalies on a steep 

slope and top of escarpment. Scant indicators of 

seepage and solitary bivalve shells. 

23 March 

WR269/270 N26°40.59’ W91°40.56’ 1952 This site comprise a series of anomalies and 

topographic highs at the border between WR269 

and WR270 lease blocks. Survey retraced the 

3D seismic lines to the extent possible under 

challenging sea conditions. One small cluster of 

bivalves and one patch of brine & bacteria mats 

was observed. 

WR265 N26°40.95’ W91°53.14’ 1820 This was a non-seep site chosen for box coring 

to collect background tissue samples of benthic 

fauna. Two 30x30cm box cores were 

successfully collected at this site. 

WR268 N26°41.17’ W91°45.76’ 1862 This site was a series of high amplitude 

anomalies in a small area at the crest a mound. 

With good coverage of this area no 

chemosynthetic megafauna were observed and 

only scant bacterial mats or other indicators of 

seepage 

172
APPENDIX B – DCCC CRUISE 

Appendix 1. Navigation Target Positions. 

AT340 

Target Latitude Longitude Local X 

(m) 

Local Y (m) Depth (m) 

Local_Origin N27 38.50000 W088 22.20000 0 0 

1-Launch BM N27 38.67600 W088 21.90200 494 320 2,182 

2-MusselsBeerCan N27 38.84577 W088 21.72023 796 630 2,216 

3-Lo_Amp N27 38.91826 W088 21.77264 711 765 2,213 

4-Hi_Amp_Rim N27 38.95293 W088 21.84751 589 830 2,218 

5-Lo_Amp N27 38.91962 W088 21.98060 369 771 2,207 

6-Mussels-Mats N27 38.82016 W088 21.99486 344 587 2,207 

7-Topo_High N27 38.63063 W088 21.90074 495 236 2,192 

8-Hi_Amp N27 38.68041 W088 21.81164 642 326 2,204 

9-

Geo_Focal_Point 

N27 38.84309 W088 22.17553 47 633 2,213 

10-Hi_Amp N27 38.66138 W088 22.11501 143 296 2,192 

11-West_Topo_Hi N27 38.84205 W088 22.41383 -345 635 2,182 

12-Tubies-Mussels N27 38.67360 W088 21.89610 503 315 2,195 

13-Orange_Mat N27 38.74590 W088 22.02100 299 451 2,201 

14-Heart_Urchins N27 38.84020 W088 22.11320 150 627 2,200 

WGS84 UTM16 

Central Meridian W087 00.0000 

Latitude of Origin N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -3,058,258.71 

False Easting 135,152.20 

Local Origin 

N3058258.71m 

E364847.80m 

173
GC600 

Target Latitude Longitude Local X (m) Local Y (m) Depth 

(m) 

Local_Origin N27 21.9 W090 34.7 0 0 

1 N27 22.38960 W090 34.52590 270 910 

2 N27 22.35650 W090 34.50360 307 849 

3 N27 22.16180 W090 34.28370 677 497 

4 N27 22.13070 W090 34.06731 1,035 446 

5 N27 22.29970 W090 34.33556 587 750 

6 N27 22.15775 W090 33.92080 1,276 501 

7 N27 22.12116 W090 33.94481 1,237 433 

8 N27 22.38280 W090 34.43158 425 900 

9 N27 22.46869 W090 34.51759 280 1,056 

10 N27 22.44819 W090 34.36051 540 1,023 

11 N27 22.01970 W090 33.84760 1,401 249 

12 N27 21.98000 W090 33.81300 1,460 176 

WGS84 UTM15 

Central Meridian W093 00.0000 

Latitude of Origin N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -3,029,191.05 

False Easting -239,526.99 

Local Origin 

N3029191.05m 

E739526.99m 

174
WR269 

Target Latitude Longitude X (m) Y (m) Depth 

(m) 

Local_Origin N26 40.50000 W091 40.50000 0 0 

1 N26 41.14132 W091 39.56046 1,546 1,200 

2 N26 41.14446 W091 39.74229 1,244 1,203 

3 N26 41.21387 W091 39.96005 882 1,327 

4 N26 40.99515 W091 40.17158 535 920 

5 N26 41.01827 W091 40.34520 247 960 

6 N26 40.72553 W091 40.30552 318 420 

WGS84 UTM15 

Central 

Meridian 

W093 00.0000 

Latitude of 

Origin 

N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -2,951,123.79 

False Easting -131,843.00 

Local Origin 

N2951123.79m 

E631843.00m 

175
KC243 

Target Latitude Longitude Local X (m) Local Y (m) Depth 

(m) 

Local Origin N26 43.7 W092 50.0 0 0 1,672 

1-mussels N26 43.81200 W092 49.83500 273 207 1,656 

2-tubeworms N26 43.83600 W092 49.86600 222 251 1,656 

3-geo N26 43.87339 W092 49.78109 362 321 1,650 

WGS84 UTM15 

Central 

Meridian 

W093 00.0000 

Latitude of 

Origin 

N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -2,956,357.08 

False Easting -16,575.43 

Local Origin 

N2956357.08m 

E516575.43m 

176
GC852 

Target Latitude Longitude Local X (m) Local Y (m) Depth 

(m) 

Local_Origin N27 06.1 W091 10.2 0 0 

1-tubes_mussels N27 06.320 W091 09.962 387 412 

2-mussels_tubes N27 06.378 W091 09.959 391 519 

3-soft_corals N27 06.586 W091 09.927 438 904 

4-red_soft_coral N27 06.626 W091 09.975 358 977 

5-soft_reflector N27 06.20083 W091 09.93492 435 193 

6-high_reflector N27 06.49466 W091 10.09557 162 731 

7-topo_high N27 06.60334 W091 10.01904 286 934 

8-geo_reflector N27 06.72200 W091 09.86759 533 1,157 

9-

topo_high_reflector 

N27 06.87347 W091 09.79281 652 1,438 

10-Jason_geoA N27 07.09276 W091 09.95591 377 1,839 

11-Jason_geoB N27 07.21342 W091 09.95762 371 2,062 

12-Jason_geoC N27 07.14364 W091 09.82149 597 1,936 

WGS84 UTM15 

Central Meridian W093 00.0000 

Latitude of Origin N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -2,999,016.02 

False Easting -181,418.40 

Local Origin 

N2999016.02m 

E681418.40m 

177
MC853 

Target Latitude Longitude Local X (m) Local Y (m) Depth 

(m) 

Local_Origin N28 07.0000 W089 08.7000 0 0 

1-IanA N28 07.64310 W089 08.46960 398 1,181 

2-IanB N28 07.64610 W089 08.60440 178 1,191 

3-topo_high N28 07.38005 W089 08.38549 527 693 

4-geoA N28 07.31668 W089 08.54517 264 580 

5-geoB N28 07.12567 W089 08.26496 716 220 

6-geoC N28 07.23794 W089 08.15560 899 424 

new_mussel_bed N28 07.61990 W089 08.47970 381 1,139 

Previous_Marker_C

3 

N28 07.60411 W089 08.53554 289 1,111 

WGS84 UTM16 

Central Meridian W087 00.0000 

Latitude of Origin N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -3,111,985.51 

False Easting 210,701.78 

Local Origin 

N3111985.51m 

E289298.22m 

178
MC640 

Target Latitude Longitude Local X (m) Local Y (m) Depth 

(m) 

Local_Origin N28 21.2 W088 47.7 0 0 

1-Bio N28 21.4147 W088 47.5508 250 393 

2-Bio N28 21.3885 W088 47.5411 265 344 

3-Bio N28 21.4436 W088 47.6221 134 448 

4-Bio N28 21.2580 W088 47.5443 256 103 

4-hi_amp N28 21.25792 W088 47.57867 200 104 

5-topo_high N28 21.31234 W088 47.57106 214 204 

6-hi_amp N28 21.36221 W088 47.56422 226 296 

7-hi_amp N28 21.39477 W088 47.61252 148 358 

8-edge_amp N28 21.44488 W088 47.64491 97 451 

9-hi_amp N28 21.35398 W088 47.67408 47 284 

10-flow? N28 21.28187 W088 47.70783 -11 151 

WGS84 UTM16 

Central 

Meridian 

W087 00.0000 

Latitude of 

Origin 

N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -3,137,652.93 

False Easting 175,925.82 

Local Origin 

N3137652.93m 

E324074.18m 

179
AC818 

Target Latitude Longitude Local X (m) Local Y (m) Depth 

(m) 

Local_Origin N26 10.3 W094 37.7 0 0 

3-geo N26 10.87071 W094 37.35272 592 1,046 

7-geo N26 10.39953 W094 37.61391 146 182 

2-geo N26 10.99434 W094 37.36435 575 1,275 

1-geo N26 11.10067 W094 37.32450 644 1,470 

5-geo N26 10.73630 W094 37.37069 559 799 

WELLHEAD N26 10.78663 W094 37.37362 555 892 

6-geo N26 10.60057 W094 37.50598 330 551 

ROV chemo N26 10.80933 W094 37.38367 539 934 

WGS84 UTM15 

Central Meridian W093 00.0000 

Latitude of Origin N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -2,895,715.18 

False Easting 162,735.70 

Local Origin 

N2895715.18m 

E337264.30m 

180
AC601 

Target Latitude Longitude Local X (m) Local Y (m) Depth 

(m) 

Local_Origin N26 23.3 W094 31.0 0 0 

2-topo_high N26 23.43701 W094 30.80559 326 249 

1-southern_amp N26 23.35948 W094 30.87494 209 107 

3-hi_amp_NE N26 23.50382 W094 30.76258 399 372 

4-lo_amp N26 23.54766 W094 30.84760 259 454 

5-hi_amp_NW N26 23.52115 W094 30.95653 77 407 

6-hi_amp_W N26 23.43895 W094 30.90413 162 255 

WGS84 UTM15 

Central Meridian W093 00.0000 

Latitude of Origin N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -2,919,580.57

False Easting 151,292.71 

Local Origin 

N2919580.57m 

E348707.29m 

181
AC645 

Target Latitude Longitude Local X (m) Local Y (m) Depth 

(m) 

Local_Origin N26 21.1 W094 30.1 0 0 

1-hi_amp_crest N26 21.22265 W094 29.82120 466 221 

2-mod_amp_NW N26 21.32091 W094 29.89063 353 404 

3-mod_amp_W N26 21.18310 W094 30.00991 152 152 

4-lo_amp_W N26 21.16761 W094 30.43800 -561 131 

WGS84 UTM15 

Central Meridian W093 00.0000 

Latitude of Origin N00 00.0000 

Scale Factor 0.999600 

False Northing -2,915,501.39

False Easting 149,843.49 

Local Origin 

N2915501.39m 

E350156.51m 

182
183

Appendix 2. Niskin Log. 

Site Dive # Niskin # Collection 

Date 

Collection 

Time 

Used for By P

MC853 4178 1 5/14/2006 not fired -- -- MC853 4178 2 5/14/2006 19:01 gas analysis Joye 5MC853 4178 3 5/14/2006 19:01 gas analysis Joye 5MC853 4178 4 5/14/2006 16:45 gas analysis Joye 5MC853 4178 5 5/14/2006 16:45 gas analysis Joye 5

AT340 4179 1 5/15/2006 not fired -- -- AT340 4179 2 5/15/2006 not fired -- -- AT340 4179 3 5/15/2006 not fired -- -- AT340 4179 4 5/15/2006 not fired -- -- AT340 4179 5 5/15/2006 16:27 gas analysis Joye 5AT340 4180 1 5/16/2006 not fired -- -- AT340 4180 2 5/16/2006 18:56 gas analysis Joye 5AT340 4180 3 5/16/2006 18:32 gas analysis Joye 5AT340 4180 4 5/16/2006 17:42 gas analysis Joye 5AT340 4180 5 5/16/2006 17:17 gas analysis Joye 5AT340 4181 1 5/17/2006 16:22 gas analysis Joye 5AT340 4181 2 5/17/2006 not fired -- -- AT340 4181 3 5/17/2006 19:39 gas analysis Joye 5AT340 4181 4 5/17/2006 not fired -- -- AT340 4181 5 5/17/2006 not fired -- -- 

GC 600 4182 1 5/18/2006 15:37 gas analysis Joye 5GC 600 4182 2 5/18/2006 15:37 gas analysis Joye 5GC 600 4182 3 5/18/2006 16:25 gas analysis Joye 5GC 600 4182 4 5/18/2006 16:25 gas analysis Joye 5GC 600 4182 5 5/18/2006 17:42 gas analysis Joye 5
Site Dive # Niskin # Collection 

Date 

Collection 

Time 

Used for By P

GC 852 4189 1 5/24/2006 17:09 gas analysis Joye 5GC 852 4189 2 5/24/2006 17:09 gas analysis Joye 5GC 852 4189 3 5/24/2006 17:09 gas analysis Joye 5GC 852 4189 4 5/24/2006 18:03 gas analysis Joye 5GC 852 4189 5 5/24/2006 18:03 gas analysis Joye 5

WR 269 4190 1 5/25/2006 18:13 gas analysis Joye 5WR 269 4190 2 5/25/2006 18:13 gas analysis Joye 5WR 269 4190 3 5/25/2006 18:13 gas analysis Joye 5WR 269 4190 4 5/25/2006 18:13 gas analysis Joye 5WR 269 4190 5 5/25/2006 18:13 gas analysis Joye 5

AC 818 4191 1 5/26/2006 16:13 gas analysis Joye 5AC 818 4191 2 5/26/2006 17:13 gas analysis Joye 5AC 818 4191 3 5/26/2006 18:02 gas analysis Joye 5AC 818 4191 4 5/26/2006 18:02 gas analysis Joye 5AC 818 4191 5 5/26/2006 18:41 gas analysis Joye 5AC 601 4193 1 5/28/2006 17:08 gas analysis Joye 5AC 601 

184

4193 2 5/28/2006 17:08 gas analysis Joye 5

AC 601 4193 3 5/28/2006 17:08 gas analysis Joye 5AC 601 4193 4 5/28/2006 17:08 gas analysis Joye 5AC 601 4193 5 5/28/2006 17:08 gas analysis Joye 5AC 645 4194 1 5/29/2006 17:07 gas analysis Joye 5AC 645 4194 2 5/29/2006 17:07 gas analysis Joye 5AC 645 4194 3 5/29/2006 17:07 gas analysis Joye 5AC 645 4194 4 5/29/2006 18:41 gas analysis Joye 5AC 645 4194 5 5/29/2006 18:41 gas analysis Joye 5
185

Appendix 3. CTD Log. 

Date Site CTD Cast # # bottles tripped 

5/15/2006 AT 340 1 23 

5/17/2006 AT 340 2 20 

5/20/2006 GC 852 3 18 

5/22/2006 GC 852 4 20 

5/22/2006 GC 852 5 21 

5/29/2006 AC 601 6 23 

5/31/2006 AC 601 7 23 

Appendix 4. Hard Corals. 

Dive Number Date Sample Description 

4190 25-May-2006 One hard coral sample, tentative identification, 

Solenosmilia variabilis
Appendix 5. Hydrocarbon Analysis Samples 

Site 

Crude Oil Samples 

(Jars) Site 

Gas Samples 

(Cans) 

AT340 4173-Y2 Blank 

4173-R3 AT340 4173-Y6 

GC600 4174-Pot GC600 4174-Y5 

4174-Y2 4174-Y6 

4174-Y4 KC243 4176-R1 

4174-R1 GC852 4177-R4 

WR269 4175-Y5 4177-R3 

KC243 4176-Rk/Sed MC853 4178-Y1 

4176-R1 4178-R5 

GC852 4177-R4 4178-Y6 

MC853 4178-Y2 4178-R3 

4178-R4 MC640 4182-R6 

MC640 4182-R2 AT340 4183-R4 

4182-R6 4183-Y3 

AT340 4183-R5 GC600 4184-Y3 

4183-R4 4184-Y6 

4183-R5 GC852 4189-R6 

GC600 4184-Y4 WR269 4191-R6 

4184-R5 AC818 4192-Y1 

GC852 4189-R6 AC601 4193-R2 

WR269 4191-R6 AC601 4196-Y4 

AC818 4192-Y1 

AC601 4193-Y2 

AC818 4195-Y2 (small sample) 

AC601 4196-Y4 

186
Appendix 6. Authigenic Carbonate Samples 

Dive 

Number 

Dive 

Site Date Comments 

4173 AT 340 5/9/2006 4 samples ( 3 mussel grab, 1 tube worms) 

4174 GC 600 5/10/2006 3 samples 

4175 WR 269 5/11/2006 No sample 

4176 KC 243 5/12/2006 2 samples (mussel scoop) 

4177 GC 852 5/13/2006 2 samples (mussel scoop) 

4178 MC 853 5/14/2006 2 samples (carb. slab, barite) 

4179 AT 340 5/15/2006 1 sample 

4180 AT 340 5/16/2006 1 sample (large block) 

4181 AT 340 5/17/2006 1 sample (small sample-mussel pot #2) 

4182 MC 640 5/18/2006 2 samples (large slab, frags mussel scoop,aft) 

4183 AT 340 5/19/2006 2 small samples (bushmaster, baby tubies) 

4184 GC 600 5/20/2006 4 samples (2 slabs clam site#1, 2 bags frags clam site #2) 

4185 GC 852 5/21/2006 3 rock samples (near benchmark) 

4186 GC 852 5/22/2006 2 samples (TW site/bushmaster bag) 

Trawl AT-6 GC 852 5/22/2006 3 samples (scale and carbonates) 

4187 GC 852 5/23/2006 2 samples (top mound/mussel pot) 

4188 GC 852 5/24/2006 Lost dive-sub power problems 

4190 GC 852 5/25/2006 Hard coral sample 

4191 WR 269 5/26/2006 1 rock sample 

4192 AC 818 5/27/2006 1 small bag rocks (mussel pot), 1 small rock from biobox

4193 AC 601 5/28/2006 

1 large rock sample (ridge crest), 1 small rock sample 

(scoop net) 

4194 AC 645 5/29/2006 2 large rock samples( bottom and top of mound) 

4195 AC 818 5/30/2006 

 2 large rock samples, 1 bag of small rocks-mussel 

scoop, 1 bag of small rocks-bushmaster 

4196 AC 601 5/31/2006 2 rock samples, 1 group of rock samples, bushmaster 

4197 AC 645 6/1/2006 2 large samples (top mound), 1 sample (base of mound) 

187
Appendix 7. Core Log. 

Site Dive # Core # Collected Used for By Processed 

AT340 4173 Y1 5/9/2006 porewater Joye 5/9/2006 

AT340 4173 Y2 5/9/2006 microbiol Joye/Bright 5/9/2006 

AT340 4173 Y3 5/9/2006 animals Bright 5/10/2006 

AT340 4173 Y4 5/9/2006 rates Joye 5/10/2006 

AT340 4173 Y5 5/9/2006 animals Bright 5/10/2006 

AT340 4173 Y6 5/9/2006 hydrocarb Bernard 5/10/2006 

AT340 4173 R1 5/9/2006 porewater Joye 5/9/2006 

AT340 4173 R2 5/9/2006 ?? ?? ?? 

AT340 4173 R3 5/9/2006 hydrocarb Bernard 5/10/2006 

AT340 4173 R4 5/9/2006 rates Joye 5/10/2006 

AT340 4173 R5 5/9/2006 microbiol Joye/Bright 5/10/2006 

AT340 4173 R6 5/9/2006 microbiol Joye/Bright 5/10/2006 

GC600 4174 Y1 5/10/2006 animals Bright 5/11/2006 

GC600 4174 Y2 5/10/2006 porewater Joye 5/10/2006 

GC600 4174 Y3 5/10/2006 NO CORE -- -- 

GC600 4174 Y4 5/10/2006 microbiol Joye/Bright 5/11/2006 

GC600 4174 Y5 5/10/2006 hydrocarb Bernard 5/11/2006 

GC600 4174 Y6 5/10/2006 NO CORE -- -- 

GC600 4174 R1 5/10/2006 rates Joye 5/11/2006 

GC600 4174 R2 5/10/2006 animals Bright 5/11/2006 

GC600 4174 R3 5/10/2006 animals Bright 5/11/2006 

GC600 4174 R4 5/10/2006 rates Joye 5/11/2006 

GC600 4174 R5 5/10/2006 microbiol Joye/Bright 5/11/2006 

GC600 4174 R6 5/10/2006 porewater Joye 5/10/2006 

GC852 4177 R1 5/13/2006 porewater Joye 5/13/2006 

GC852 4177 R2 5/13/2006 microbiol Joye/Bright 5/14/2006 

GC852 4177 R3 5/13/2006 ?? ?? ?? 

GC852 4177 R4 5/13/2006 ?? ?? ?? 

GC852 4177 R5 5/13/2006 rates Joye 5/14/2006 

GC852 4177 R6 5/13/2006 rates Joye 5/14/2006 

MC853 4178 Y1 5/14/2006 animals Bright 5/15/2006 

MC853 4178 Y2 5/14/2006 porewater Joye 5/14/2006 

188
Site Dive # Core # Collected Used for By Processed 

MC853 4178 Y3 5/14/2006 microbiol Joye/Bright 5/15/2006 

MC853 4178 Y4 5/14/2006 rates Joye 5/15/2006 

MC853 4178 Y5 5/14/2006 rates Joye 5/15/2006 

MC853 4178 Y6 5/14/2006 anim/hyd Bright/Bernard 5/15/2006 

MC853 4178 R1 5/14/2006 rates Joye 5/15/2006 

MC853 4178 R2 5/14/2006 microbiol Joye/Bright 5/15/2006 

MC853 4178 R3 5/14/2006 animals Bright 5/15/2006 

MC853 4178 R4 5/14/2006 porewater Joye 5/14/2006 

MC853 4178 R5 5/14/2006 anim/hyd Bright/Bernard 5/15/2006 

MC853 4178 R6 5/14/2006 rates Joye 5/15/2006 

AT340 4181 R3 5/17/2006 Rates Niemann 5/17/2006 

AT340 4181 R4 5/17/2006 Rates Niemann 5/17/2006 

AT340 4181 R5 5/17/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/17/2006 

MC640 4182 Y1 5/18/2006 NO CORE -- -- 

MC640 4182 Y2 5/18/2006 NO CORE -- -- 

MC640 4182 Y3 5/18/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/18/2006 

MC640 4182 Y4 5/18/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/18/2006 

MC640 4182 Y5 5/18/2006 rates Joye 5/19/2006 

MC640 4182 Y6 5/18/2006 microbiol Joye 5/19/2006 

MC640 4182 R1 5/18/2006 NO CORE -- -- 

MC640 4182 R2 5/18/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/18/2006 

MC640 4182 R3 5/18/2006 rates Joye 5/19/2006 

MC640 4182 R4 5/18/2006 rates Joye 5/19/2006 

MC640 4182 R5 5/18/2006 micro/hydro Joye/Bernard 5/19/2006 

MC640 4182 R6 5/18/2006 microbiol Joye/Bernard 5/19/2006 

AT340 4183 Y1 5/19/2006 rates Niemann 5/19/2006 

AT340 4183 Y2 5/19/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/19/2006 

AT340 4183 Y3 5/19/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/19/2006 

AT340 4183 Y4 5/19/2006 macrofau Cordez 5/18/2006 

AT340 4183 Y5 5/19/2006 overfull -- -- 

AT340 4183 Y6 5/19/2006 macrofau Cordez 5/19/2006 

AT340 4183 R1 5/19/2006 macrofau Cordez 5/19/2006 

AT340 4183 R2 5/19/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/19/2006 

AT340 4183 R3 5/19/2006 Trode Joye 5/20/2006 

189
Site Dive # Core # Collected Used for By Processed 

AT340 4183 R4 5/19/2006 rates Joye 5/20/2006 

AT340 4183 R5 5/19/2006 rates Joye 5/20/2006 

AT340 4183 R6 5/19/2006 overfull -- -- 

GC 600 4184 R1 5/20/2006 macrofau Bright 5/20/2006 

GC 600 4184 R2 5/20/2006 macrofau Bright 5/20/2006 

GC 600 4184 R3 5/20/2006 macrofau Bright 5/20/2006 

GC 600 4184 R4 5/20/2006 rocks -- -- 

GC 600 4184 R5 5/20/2006 rocks -- -- 

GC 600 4184 R6 5/20/2006 rocky Bernard? -- 

GC 600 4184 Y1 5/20/2006 rates Joye 5/20/2006 

GC 600 4184 Y2 5/20/2006 trode/micro Joye 5/20/2006 

GC 600 4184 Y3 5/20/2006 rates Joye 5/20/2006 

GC 600 4184 Y4 5/20/2006 take home Joye 5/20/2006 

GC 600 4184 Y5 5/20/2006 rates Joye 5/20/2006 

GC 600 4184 Y6 5/20/2006 squeeze Joye 5/20/2006 

GC 852 4189 R1 5/24/2006 Trode Joye 5/24/2006 

GC 852 4189 R2 5/24/2006 rates Joye 5/24/2006 

GC 852 4189 R3 5/24/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/24/2006 

GC 852 4189 R4 5/24/2006 trode/micro Joye 5/24/2006 

GC 852 4189 R5 5/24/2006 take home Joye 5/24/2006 

GC 852 4189 R6 5/24/2006 hydrocarb Bernard 5/24/2006 

GC 852 4189 Y1 5/24/2006 trode/sque Joye 5/24/2006 

GC 852 4189 Y2 5/24/2006 lost -- -- 

GC 852 4189 Y3 5/24/2006 lost -- -- 

GC 852 4189 Y4 5/24/2006 NO CORE -- -- 

GC 852 4189 Y5 5/24/2006 tubeworm Niemann 5/24/2006 

GC 852 4189 Y6 5/24/2006 tubeworm Niemann 5/24/2006 

WR 269 4191 R1 5/26/2006 macrofau Bright 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 R2 5/26/2006 rates Joye 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 R3 5/26/2006 rates Joye 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 R4 5/26/2006 macrofau Bright 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 R5 5/26/2006 macrofau Bright 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 R6 5/26/2006 hydrocarb Bernard 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 Y1 5/26/2006 trode/faun Joye/Bright 5/26/2006 

190
Site Dive # Core # Collected Used for By Processed 

WR 269 4191 Y2 5/26/2006 rates 

(MOG) 

Joye 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 Y3 5/26/2006 take home Joye 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 Y4 5/26/2006 trode/micro Joye 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 Y5 5/26/2006 squeeze Joye 5/26/2006 

WR 269 4191 Y6 5/26/2006 NO CORE -- -- 

AC 818 4192 R1 5/27/2006 ?? ?? 

AC 818 4192 R2 5/27/2006 ?? ?? 

AC 818 4192 R3 5/27/2006 ?? ?? 

AC 818 4192 R4 5/27/2006 ?? ?? 

AC 818 4192 R5 5/27/2006 ?? ?? 

AC 818 4192 R6 5/27/2006 rates Joye 5/27/2006 

AC 818 4192 Y1 5/27/2006 hydrocarb Bern 5/27/2006 

AC 818 4192 Y2 5/27/2006 trodes Joye 5/27/2006 

AC 818 4192 Y3 5/27/2006 microbiol Joye 5/27/2006 

AC 818 4192 Y4 5/27/2006 molecular Joye 5/27/2006 

AC 818 4192 Y5 5/27/2006 rates Joye 5/27/2006 

AC 818 4192 Y6 5/27/2006 rates 

(MOG) 

Joye 5/27/2006 

AC 601 4193 R1 5/28/2006 ?? ?? 5/29/2006 

AC 601 4193 R2 5/28/2006 squeeze Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 601 4193 R3 5/28/2006 geol Roberts 5/28/2006 

AC 601 4193 R4 5/28/2006 geol Roberts 5/28/2006 

AC 601 4193 R5 5/28/2006 trode/micro Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 601 4193 R6 5/28/2006 rates Joye 5/23/2006 

AC 601 4193 Y1 5/28/2006 squeeze Joye 5/28/2006 

AC 601 4193 Y2 5/28/2006 rates Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 601 4193 Y3 5/28/2006 tubeworm Niemann 5/28/2006 

AC 601 4193 Y4 5/28/2006 tubeworm Niemann 5/28/2006 

AC 601 4193 Y5 5/28/2006 rates Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 601 4193 Y6 5/28/2006 squeeze Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 645 4194 R1 5/29/2006 Girguis Cordes 5/29/2006 

AC 645 4194 R2 5/29/2006 microbiol Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 645 4194 R3 5/29/2006 hydrocarb Roberts 5/30/2006 

AC 645 4194 R4 5/29/2006 geol Roberts 5/30/2006 

AC 645 4194 R5 5/29/2006 take home Joye 5/29/2006 

191
Site Dive # Core # Collected Used for By Processed 

AC 645 4194 R6 5/29/2006 take home Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 645 4194 Y1 5/29/2006 microbiol Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 645 4194 Y2 5/29/2006 rates Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 645 4194 Y3 5/29/2006 molecular Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 645 4194 Y4 5/29/2006 NO CORE -- -- 

AC 645 4194 Y5 5/29/2006 rates 

(MOG) 

Joye/Bernard 5/30/2006 

AC 645 4194 Y6 5/29/2006 squeeze Joye 5/29/2006 

AC 601 4196 R1 5/31/2006 rates Joye 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 R2 5/31/2006 rates 

(MOG) 

Joye 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 R3 5/31/2006 microbiol Joye 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 R4 5/31/2006 rates Joye 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 R5 5/31/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 R6 5/31/2006 Geochem Roberts 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 Y1 5/31/2006 rates Joye 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 Y2 5/31/2006 rates Joye 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 Y3 5/31/2006 rate Joye 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 Y4 5/31/2006 Geochem Roberts 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 Y5 5/31/2006 microbiol Joye 5/31/2006 

AC 601 4196 Y6 5/31/2006 Squeeze Joye 5/31/2006 

192
193

Appendix 8. Trawl Log. 

Trawl # 1 Inventory ID AT-1 Site Atwater Valley 340 2276m depth Pos: 27 30.00N 88 22.00W to 27 42.00N Date: 9 May, 2006 Time: Start - 11:45pm On Bottom- 13:50 Off Bottom 15:25 Notes: Trawl hung on bottom at 14:40, ship's position 27 39.9375. Pulled free at 7000lbs tension. Wood, iron scale, clinkers, and coal suggest remote possibility of shipwreck.Trawl with ~ 20L mud. Good catch, see inventory. Typical holothuroid/sponge collection for this depth. Trawl # 2 Inventory ID AT-2 Site: Walker Ridge 269 2000m depth Date: 11 May, 2006 Pos: 26 40.00N 91 34.00W to 26 44.00N 91 38.00W Time: Start - 15:37 On Bottom - 16:58 Off Bottom 1Notes: Trawl with ~ 10L mud Trawl # 3 Inventory ID AT-3 Site: Atwater Valley 340 2200m depth Date: 14 May, 2006 Pos: 27 37.00N 88 24.00W to 27 37.00N 88 18.00W Time: Start - 23:15 On Bottom - 00:55 Off Bottom 02Notes: Good sample with minimal mud and numerous holothuroids Trawl # 4 Inventory ID AT-4 Site: Atwater Valley 340 2372m depth Date: 16 May, 2006 
Pos: 27 37.00N 88 17.00W to 27 41.00N 

Time: Start - 18:15 On Bottom - 19:50 Off Bottom -20:50 Notes: Small sample similar in content to other AT 340 trawls. Minimal mud. Trawl #5 Inventory ID AT-5 Site: Green Canyon 852 Date: 21 May, 2006 Pos: 27 0.45N 91 08.5W to 27 08.0N 91 08.5W Time: Start - 16:10 On Bottom - 17:15 Off Bottom - 18:15 Notes: Apparently near-bottom water tow with ~ 6 shrimp. Strong surface current made 

speed during lowering greater than 3 knots. 

Trawl #6 Inventory ID AT-6 Site: Green Canyon 852 Date: 23-May-10 Pos: 27 08.0N 91 11.5W to 27 04.0N 91 11.5W Time: Start - 16:30 On Bottom - 17:33 Off Bottom - 18:35 Notes: Small sample size. Trawl #7 Inventory ID AT-7 Site: Green Canyon 852 Date: 23 May, 2006 Pos: 27 09.9N 91 11.5W to 27 04.0 91 11.5W Time: Start - 17:15 On Bottom - 18:35 Off Bottom 13:35 Notes: Net inverted. Few speciemens. Trawl #8 Inventory ID AT-8 

194
Site: Green Canyon 852 

Date: 25 May, 2006 Pos: 26 09.00N 91 11.5W to 27 04.00 91 11.5W Time: Start -16:45 On Bottom - 18:30 Off Bottom - 19:30 Notes: Strong and opposing surface versus bottom currents make trawling difficult. Added 5lb weight to cod end. Small catch, Umbellula, holothuroids, etc Trawl #9 Inventory ID AT-9 Site: Alaminos Canyon 818 Date: 27 May, 2006 Pos: 08.0N 94 36.6W to 26 12.0N Time: Start - 18:20 On Bottom - 20:30 Off Bottom - 21:30 Notes: Modest catch Holothurians, sponges, ophiuroids. Trawl #10 Inventory ID AT-10 Site: Alaminos Canyon 818 Date: 31-May-10 Pos: 26 05.0N 94 36.5W to 26 11.0N Time: Start - 17:35 On Bottom - 19:20 Off Bottom - 20:55 Notes: Slow recovery due to washing of cable and frequent adjustment of level wind. Modest catch with good variety, octopus, squid, fish, ophiuroids, holothuroids, and many sponges. 

195
196

Appendix 9. Samples Collected ATLANTIS / ALVIN. 

Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4173 AT 340 PSU tubeworm genetics x4173 AT 340 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4173 AT 340 PSU tubeworm morphology x4173 AT 340 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts x4173 AT 340 PSU mussel genetics x 4173 AT 340 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4173 AT 340 PSU mussel morphology x4173 AT 340 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4173 AT 340 PSU clam genetics 4173 AT 340 PSU clam stable isotopes 4173 AT 340 PSU clam morphology 4173 AT 340 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4173 AT 340 PSU macrofauna genetics 
197

Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4173 AT 340 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes 4173 AT 340 PSU macrofauna preserved x4173 AT 340 U. Austria meiofauna 4174 GC 600 PSU tubeworm genetics x4174 GC 600 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4174 GC 600 PSU tubeworm morphology x4174 GC 600 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts x4174 GC 600 PSU mussel genetics x 4174 GC 600 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4174 GC 600 PSU mussel morphology x4174 GC 600 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4174 GC 600 PSU clam genetics 4174 GC 600 PSU clam stable isotopes 4174 GC 600 PSU clam morphology 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4174 GC 600 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4174 GC 600 PSU macrofauna genetics 4174 GC 600 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes 4174 GC 600 PSU macrofauna preserved x4174 GC 600 U. Austria meiofauna x 4175 WR 269 PSU tubeworm genetics x4175 WR 269 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 

198

x

4175 WR 269 PSU tubeworm morphology x4175 WR 269 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts x4175 WR 269 PSU mussel genetics 4175 WR 269 PSU mussel stable isotopes 4175 WR 269 PSU mussel morphology 4175 WR 269 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4175 WR 269 PSU clam genetics 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4175 WR 269 PSU clam stable isotopes 4175 WR 269 PSU clam morphology 4175 WR 269 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4175 WR 269 PSU macrofauna genetics 4175 WR 269 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x4175 WR 269 PSU macrofauna preserved x4175 WR 269 U. Austria meiofauna 4176 KC 243 PSU tubeworm genetics 4176 KC 243 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 4176 KC 243 PSU tubeworm morphology 4176 KC 243 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4176 KC 243 PSU mussel genetics x 4176 KC 243 PSU mussel stable isotopes 

199

x

4176 KC 243 PSU mussel morphology x
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4176 KC 243 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4176 KC 243 PSU clam genetics 4176 KC 243 PSU clam stable isotopes 4176 KC 243 PSU clam morphology 4176 KC 243 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4176 KC 243 PSU macrofauna genetics x4176 KC 243 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x4176 KC 243 PSU macrofauna preserved 

200

x x

4176 KC 243 U. Austria meiofauna x 4178 MC 853 PSU tubeworm genetics 4178 MC 853 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 4178 MC 853 PSU tubeworm morphology 4178 MC 853 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4178 MC 853 PSU mussel genetics x 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4178 MC 853 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4178 MC 853 PSU mussel morphology x4178 MC 853 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4178 MC 853 PSU clam genetics 4178 MC 853 PSU clam stable isotopes x4178 MC 853 PSU clam morphology x4178 MC 853 MPI Bremen clam symbionts x 4178 MC 853 PSU macrofauna genetics x x x x 4178 MC 853 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x x x x 4178 MC 853 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x x x 4178 MC 853 U. Austria meiofauna x 4179 AT 340 PSU tubeworm genetics 

201

x

4179 AT 340 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4179 AT 340 PSU tubeworm morphology x
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4179 AT 340 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4179 AT 340 PSU mussel genetics x 4179 AT 340 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4179 AT 340 PSU mussel morphology x4179 AT 340 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4179 AT 340 PSU clam genetics 4179 AT 340 PSU clam stable isotopes 4179 AT 340 PSU clam morphology 4179 AT 340 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4179 AT 340 PSU macrofauna genetics 

202

x x x

4179 AT 340 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x4179 AT 340 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x4179 AT 340 U. Austria meiofauna x x 4180 AT 340 PSU tubeworm genetics x
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4180 AT 340 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4180 AT 340 PSU tubeworm morphology x4180 AT 340 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4180 AT 340 PSU mussel genetics x 4180 AT 340 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4180 AT 340 PSU mussel morphology x4180 AT 340 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 

203

x

4180 AT 340 PSU clam genetics 4180 AT 340 PSU clam stable isotopes 4180 AT 340 PSU clam morphology 4180 AT 340 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4180 AT 340 PSU macrofauna genetics x x4180 AT 340 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x4180 AT 340 PSU macrofauna preserved x x
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4180 AT 340 U. Austria meiofauna x x 4181 AT 340 PSU tubeworm genetics 4181 AT 340 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 4181 AT 340 PSU tubeworm morphology 4181 AT 340 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4181 AT 340 PSU mussel genetics x x x 4181 AT 340 PSU mussel stable isotopes 

204

x x x

4181 AT 340 PSU mussel morphology x x x4181 AT 340 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4181 AT 340 PSU clam genetics 4181 AT 340 PSU clam stable isotopes 4181 AT 340 PSU clam morphology 4181 AT 340 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4181 AT 340 PSU macrofauna genetics x x x
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4181 AT 340 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x x4181 AT 340 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x4181 AT 340 U. Austria meiofauna x x x 4182 MC 640 PSU tubeworm genetics 4182 MC 640 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 4182 MC 640 PSU tubeworm morphology 4182 MC 640 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4182 MC 640 PSU mussel genetics x x x 4182 MC 640 PSU mussel stable isotopes 

205

x x x

4182 MC 640 PSU mussel morphology x x x4182 MC 640 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4182 MC 640 PSU clam genetics 4182 MC 640 PSU clam stable isotopes 4182 MC 640 PSU clam morphology 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4182 MC 640 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4182 MC 640 PSU macrofauna genetics x x x4182 MC 640 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x x4182 MC 640 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x x x 4182 MC 640 U. Austria meiofauna x x x 4183 AT 340 PSU tubeworm genetics x4183 AT 340 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 

206

x

4183 AT 340 PSU tubeworm morphology x4183 AT 340 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4183 AT 340 PSU mussel genetics 4183 AT 340 PSU mussel stable isotopes 4183 AT 340 PSU mussel morphology 4183 AT 340 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4183 AT 340 PSU clam genetics 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4183 AT 340 PSU clam stable isotopes 4183 AT 340 PSU clam morphology 4183 AT 340 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4183 AT 340 PSU macrofauna genetics x x4183 AT 340 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x x4183 AT 340 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x x x 4183 AT 340 U. Austria meiofauna x x x 4184 GC600 PSU tubeworm genetics 4184 GC600 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 4184 GC600 PSU tubeworm morphology 4184 GC600 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4184 GC600 PSU mussel genetics 4184 GC600 PSU mussel stable isotopes 4184 GC600 PSU mussel morphology 

207
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4184 GC600 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4184 GC600 PSU clam genetics x 4184 GC600 PSU clam stable isotopes x4184 GC600 PSU clam morphology x4184 GC600 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4184 GC600 PSU macrofauna genetics x x4184 GC600 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x x4184 GC600 PSU macrofauna preserved 

208

x x x

4184 GC600 U. Austria meiofauna x 4185 GC 852 PSU tubeworm genetics 4185 GC 852 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 4185 GC 852 PSU tubeworm morphology 4185 GC 852 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4185 GC 852 PSU mussel genetics 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4185 GC 852 PSU mussel stable isotopes 4185 GC 852 PSU mussel morphology 4185 GC 852 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4185 GC 852 PSU clam genetics 4185 GC 852 PSU clam stable isotopes 4185 GC 852 PSU clam morphology 4185 GC 852 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4185 GC 852 PSU coral preserved 4185 GC 852 PSU coral stable isotope 

209

4185 GC 852 USGS coral genetics 4185 GC 852 PSU macrofauna genetics x4185 GC 852 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x 4185 GC 852 PSU macrofauna preserved x x 4185 GC 852 U. Austria meiofauna 4186 GC 852 PSU tubeworm genetics x
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4186 GC 852 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4186 GC 852 PSU tubeworm morphology x4186 GC 852 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4186 GC 852 PSU mussel genetics x 4186 GC 852 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4186 GC 852 PSU mussel morphology x4186 GC 852 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4186 GC 852 PSU clam genetics 4186 GC 852 PSU clam stable isotopes 4186 GC 852 PSU clam morphology 4186 GC 852 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4186 GC 852 PSU coral preserved 4186 GC 852 PSU coral stable isotope 4186 GC 852 USGS coral genetics 4186 GC 852 PSU macrofauna genetics 

210

xx x
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4186 GC 852 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x4186 GC 852 PSU macrofauna preserved xx x4186 GC 852 U. Austria meiofauna x x 4187 GC 852 PSU tubeworm genetics x4187 GC 852 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4187 GC 852 PSU tubeworm morphology 

211

x

4187 GC 852 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4187 GC 852 PSU mussel genetics x 4187 GC 852 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4187 GC 852 PSU mussel morphology x x4187 GC 852 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4187 GC 852 PSU clam genetics 4187 GC 852 PSU clam stable isotopes 4187 GC 852 PSU clam morphology 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4187 GC 852 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4187 GC 852 PSU coral preserved 4187 GC 852 PSU coral stable isotope 4187 GC 852 USGS coral genetics 4187 GC 852 PSU macrofauna genetics x x x x 4187 GC 852 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x x4187 GC 852 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x x 4187 GC 852 U. Austria meiofauna x x 4188 4189 GC 852 PSU tubeworm genetics 4189 GC 852 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 4189 GC 852 PSU tubeworm morphology 4189 GC 852 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4189 GC 852 PSU mussel genetics 4189 GC 852 PSU mussel stable isotopes 

212
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4189 GC 852 PSU mussel morphology 4189 GC 852 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4189 GC 852 PSU clam genetics 4189 GC 852 PSU clam stable isotopes 4189 GC 852 PSU clam morphology 4189 GC 852 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4189 GC 852 PSU coral preserved 4189 GC 852 PSU coral stable isotope 

213

4189 GC 852 USGS coral genetics 4189 GC 852 PSU macrofauna genetics 4189 GC 852 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes 4189 GC 852 PSU macrofauna preserved 4189 GC 852 U. Austria meiofauna 4190 GC 852 PSU tubeworm genetics 4190 GC 852 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4190 GC 852 PSU tubeworm morphology 4190 GC 852 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4190 GC 852 PSU mussel genetics 4190 GC 852 PSU mussel stable isotopes 4190 GC 852 PSU mussel morphology 4190 GC 852 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4190 GC 852 PSU clam genetics 4190 GC 852 PSU clam stable isotopes 4190 GC 852 PSU clam morphology 4190 GC 852 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4190 GC 852 PSU coral preserved 4190 GC 852 PSU coral stable isotope 

214

4190 GC 852 USGS coral genetics 4190 GC 852 PSU macrofauna genetics 4190 GC 852 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4190 GC 852 PSU macrofauna preserved 4190 GC 852 U. Austria meiofauna 4191 WR 269 PSU tubeworm genetics x 4191 WR 269 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x 4191 WR 269 PSU tubeworm morphology x 4191 WR 269 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4191 WR 269 PSU mussel genetics x x 4191 WR 269 PSU mussel stable isotopes 

215

x

4191 WR 269 PSU mussel morphology x4191 WR 269 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4191 WR 269 PSU clam genetics 4191 WR 269 PSU clam stable isotopes 4191 WR 269 PSU clam morphology 4191 WR 269 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4191 WR 269 PSU coral preserved 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4191 WR 269 PSU coral stable isotope 4191 WR 269 USGS coral genetics 4191 WR 269 PSU macrofauna genetics x x x 4191 WR 269 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x x 4191 WR 269 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x 4191 WR 269 U. Austria meiofauna x 4192 AC 818 PSU tubeworm genetics x4192 AC 818 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes 

216

x

4192 AC 818 PSU tubeworm morphology x4192 AC 818 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts x4192 AC 818 PSU mussel genetics x 4192 AC 818 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4192 AC 818 PSU mussel morphology x4192 AC 818 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4192 AC 818 PSU clam genetics 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 1 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

4192 AC 818 PSU clam stable isotopes 4192 AC 818 PSU clam morphology 4192 AC 818 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4192 AC 818 PSU coral preserved 4192 AC 818 PSU coral stable isotope 4192 AC 818 USGS coral genetics 4192 AC 818 PSU macrofauna genetics x x x4192 AC 818 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes 

217

x x x

4192 AC 818 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x4192 AC 818 U. Austria meiofauna x 4193 AC601 PSU tubeworm genetics x4193 AC601 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4193 AC601 PSU tubeworm morphology x4193 AC601 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4193 AC601 PSU mussel genetics x 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

mussel pot 1 

4193 AC601 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4193 AC601 PSU mussel morphology x4193 AC601 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4193 AC601 PSU clam genetics 4193 AC601 PSU clam stable isotopes 4193 AC601 PSU clam morphology 

2184193 AC601 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 

4193 AC601 PSU coral preserved 4193 AC601 PSU coral stable isotope 4193 AC601 USGS coral genetics 4193 AC601 PSU macrofauna genetics x x4193 AC601 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x4193 AC601 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x4193 AC601 U. Austria meiofauna 4194 AC 645 PSU tubeworm genetics x
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

mussel pot 1 

4194 AC 645 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4194 AC 645 PSU tubeworm morphology x4194 AC 645 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4194 AC 645 PSU mussel genetics 4194 AC 645 PSU mussel stable isotopes 4194 AC 645 PSU mussel morphology 4194 AC 645 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4194 AC 645 PSU clam genetics 4194 AC 645 PSU clam stable isotopes 4194 AC 645 PSU clam morphology 4194 AC 645 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4194 AC 645 PSU coral preserved 4194 AC 645 PSU coral stable isotope 4194 AC 645 USGS coral genetics 4194 AC 645 PSU macrofauna genetics 

219

x x 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

mussel pot 1 

4194 AC 645 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x 4194 AC 645 PSU macrofauna preserved x x 4194 AC 645 U. Austria meiofauna 4195 AC 818 PSU tubeworm genetics x4195 AC 818 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4195 AC 818 PSU tubeworm morphology x4195 AC 818 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4195 AC 818 PSU mussel genetics x 4195 AC 818 PSU mussel stable isotopes 

220

x

4195 AC 818 PSU mussel morphology x4195 AC 818 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x4195 AC 818 PSU clam genetics 4195 AC 818 PSU clam stable isotopes 4195 AC 818 PSU clam morphology 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

mussel pot 1 

4195 AC 818 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4195 AC 818 PSU coral preserved 4195 AC 818 PSU coral stable isotope 4195 AC 818 USGS coral genetics 4195 AC 818 PSU macrofauna genetics x x x4195 AC 818 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x x4195 AC 818 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x4195 AC 818 U. Austria meiofauna x 4196 AC 601 PSU tubeworm genetics 

221

x

4196 AC 601 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4196 AC 601 PSU tubeworm morphology x4196 AC 601 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4196 AC 601 PSU mussel genetics x 4196 AC 601 PSU mussel stable isotopes x4196 AC 601 PSU mussel morphology 
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

mussel pot 1 

4196 AC 601 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts 4196 AC 601 PSU clam genetics 4196 AC 601 PSU clam stable isotopes 4196 AC 601 PSU clam morphology 4196 AC 601 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4196 AC 601 PSU coral preserved 4196 AC 601 PSU coral stable isotope 4196 AC 601 USGS coral genetics 4196 AC 601 PSU macrofauna genetics 

222

x x x

4196 AC 601 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x x4196 AC 601 PSU macrofauna preserved x x x4196 AC 601 U. Austria meiofauna x 4197 AC 645 PSU tubeworm genetics x4197 AC 645 PSU tubeworm stable isotopes x4197 AC 645 PSU tubeworm morphology x
Dive Site Lab Sample Type 

tubeworm grab 

mussel scoop 

mussel scoop 2 

biobox 

rock grab 

slurp 

mussel pot 2 

bushmaster 

core R4 

core Y4 

core R1 

clam scoop 

crab grab 

mussel pot 1 

4197 AC 645 U. Austria tubeworm symbionts 4197 AC 645 PSU mussel genetics x 4197 AC 645 PSU mussel stable isotopes x 4197 AC 645 PSU mussel morphology x 4197 AC 645 MPI Bremen mussel symbionts x 4197 AC 645 PSU clam genetics 4197 AC 645 PSU clam stable isotopes 4197 AC 645 PSU clam morphology 4197 AC 645 MPI Bremen clam symbionts 4197 AC 645 PSU coral preserved 4197 AC 645 PSU coral stable isotope 4197 AC 645 USGS coral genetics 4197 AC 645 PSU macrofauna genetics 

223

x 

4197 AC 645 PSU macrofauna stable isotopes x 4197 AC 645 PSU macrofauna preserved x x 4197 AC 645 U. Austria meiofauna 
Appendix 10. Record of Dive Activities. 

DIVENUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 14:59 27.64780486 -88.36231220 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard Na4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 16:08 27.64552701 -88.36329334 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard 1 r4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 16:20 27.64550965 -88.36328493 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard Ye

mu

4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 16:31 27.64551074 -88.36328422 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard Mu4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 16:37 27.64552198 -88.36328749 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard 3 r4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 16:37 27.64552198 -88.36328749 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard Gr4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 18:39 27.64463321 -88.36499541 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard Re

tub

4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 18:55 27.64463424 -88.36499630 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard De

exp

4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 18:59 27.64463549 -88.36499424 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard Co4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 18:59 27.64463549 -88.36499424 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard Co

tub

4173 AT340 2216 5/9/2006 19:20 27.64460149 -88.36503358 Mark Spear Erik Cordes Bernie Bernard De4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 14:04 27.37334615 -90.57041377 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann Su4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 15:01 27.37323726 -90.57566860 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann Ch

ma

4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 15:05 27.37324361 -90.57566171 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann Tu4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 15:40 27.37307240 -90.57463477 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann Re

ba

4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 17:55 27.36870709 -90.56634925 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann Ye

wh

225
226

DIVENUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 18:13 27.36869295 -90.56632326 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann Mu

fai

4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 18:18 27.36869140 -90.56632375 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann Ma

dep

4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 18:20 27.36870575 -90.56633456 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann La

co

4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 18:24 27.36871251 -90.56636470 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann Slu

an

4174 GC600 1250 5/10/2006 18:39 27.36797549 -90.56670115 Pat Hickey Bob Carney Helge Neimann An4175 WR269 1950 5/11/2006 16:20 26.68583938 -91.65952070 Bruce Strickrott Harry Roberts Vladimir Samarkin De4175 WR269 1950 5/11/2006 16:20 26.68583938 -91.65952070 Bruce Strickrott Harry Roberts Vladimir Samarkin Su

likho

4175 WR269 1950 5/11/2006 16:51 26.68626982 -91.66259904 Bruce Strickrott Harry Roberts Vladimir Samarkin Mu

fai

4176 KC243 1610 5/12/2006 14:29 26.73097869 -92.83170483 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy De4176 KC243 1610 5/12/2006 15:18 26.73073188 -92.83041777 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy De4176 KC243 1610 5/12/2006 15:29 26.73068558 -92.83045916 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Mu4176 KC243 1610 5/12/2006 16:07 26.73069054 -92.83048721 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy 2 s4176 KC243 1610 5/12/2006 16:07 26.73069054 -92.83048721 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Sc4176 KC243 1610 5/12/2006 17:11 26.73073259 -92.83039082 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Mo4177 GC852 1450 5/13/2006 15:27 27.10593737 -91.16603396 Mark Spear Ian MacDonald Monika Bright De4177 GC852 1450 5/13/2006 16:07 27.10635324 -91.16620915 Mark Spear Ian MacDonald Monika Bright Mu

fai

4177 GC852 1450 5/13/2006 16:33 27.10635092 -91.16618529 Mark Spear Ian MacDonald Monika Bright SE

exp

4177 GC852 1450 5/13/2006 16:50 27.10633883 -91.16619351 Mark Spear Ian MacDonald Monika Bright De

#1 
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4177 GC852 1450 5/13/2006 16:56 27.10633774 -91.16619309 Mark Spear Ian MacDonald Monika Bright Re4177 GC852 1450 5/13/2006 17:10 27.10630550 -91.16618850 Mark Spear Ian MacDonald Monika Bright Ro4177 GC852 1450 5/13/2006 17:40 27.10625979 -91.16607717 Mark Spear Ian MacDonald Monika Bright Tu4177 GC852 1450 5/13/2006 18:29 27.10632465 -91.16590704 Mark Spear Ian MacDonald Monika Bright 2 s4177 GC852 1450 5/13/2006 18:29 27.10632465 -91.16590704 Mark Spear Ian MacDonald Monika Bright Mu4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 14:35 28.12734069 -89.14123695 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd De4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 14:55 28.12725063 -89.14149671 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd De

Rema

227

4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 14:55 28.12725063 -89.14149671 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd 4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 15:00 28.12725391 -89.14148473 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Slu

Slucar

4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 15:12 28.12726679 -89.14145702 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd 

4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 15:27 28.12699717 -89.14203478 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Slu4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 15:44 28.12741575 -89.14307532 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Mu4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 16:11 28.12742335 -89.14307010 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Ne4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 16:45 28.12556342 -89.14171007 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Fir4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 17:12 28.12383968 -89.14039497 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Ne4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 17:29 28.12299006 -89.13980296 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Ye4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 17:59 28.12303414 -89.13942237 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd De4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 18:13 28.12208425 -89.14164213 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Cl
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 18:31 28.12194479 -89.14206153 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Ma4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 18:41 28.12156428 -89.14246169 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd 1 c

1 b

4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 19:01 28.12045830 -89.14117104 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Ni4178 MC853 1070 5/14/2006 19:02 28.12045892 -89.14117084 Pat Hickey Mandy Joye Bill Shedd Mu4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 14:47 27.64468997 -88.36498100 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon On 4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 14:52 27.64455472 -88.36499410 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon De

nav 

4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 15:17 27.64496778 -88.36451021 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Ma

mudep

4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 15:39 27.64497002 -88.36446480 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Mo4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 16:27 27.64494116 -88.36459931 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Ni4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 16:27 27.64494116 -88.36459931 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Sta

ma

4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 17:20 27.64496206 -88.36454942 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Sh4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 17:31 27.64491791 -88.36481012 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Gr4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 18:05 27.64461380 -88.36464289 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Bu4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 18:56 27.64493215 -88.36440101 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon 1 c

228
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 18:56 27.64493215 -88.36440101 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Sta

ma

4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 19:20 27.64491725 -88.36442337 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Mo

stama

4179 AT340 2200 5/15/2006 ### 27.64757016 -88.36181058 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Stephanie Lessard- Pilon Ne4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 16:45 27.64460498 -88.36502738 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen Re4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 17:03 27.64485193 -88.36464174 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen Tu

deprec

4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 17:17 27.64485272 -88.36464627 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen Ni4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 17:23 27.64485243 -88.36464715 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen 1 l

co

4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 17:42 27.64463373 -88.36475435 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen Ni4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 18:32 27.64463456 -88.36470480 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen Ni4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 18:43 27.64463854 -88.36470252 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen Bu

dep

4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 18:55 27.64487636 -88.36479546 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen De4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 18:56 27.64487591 -88.36479545 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen Fir4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 19:09 27.64487344 -88.36480341 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen Mu4180 AT340 2200 5/16/2006 19:09 27.64487344 -88.36480341 Gavin Eppard Erik Cordes Jill Petersen Tu4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 16:22 27.64769809 -88.37371885 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki Ni4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 16:38 27.64771148 -88.37372086 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki Mu

229
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 17:16 27.64724248 -88.37009942 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki 1 

sam#2 

4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 17:16 27.64724248 -88.37009942 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki De

ne

4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 17:16 27.64724248 -88.37009942 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki Mu4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 17:16 27.64724248 -88.37009942 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki Mu4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 17:20 27.64723154 -88.37009544 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki Ni4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 18:57 27.64486525 -88.36546289 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki Th

#1

4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 19:36 27.64496980 -88.36487699 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki Pic

exp

4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 19:39 27.64497012 -88.36487623 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki Ni4181 AT340 2200 5/17/2006 19:43 27.64494568 -88.36492379 Mark Spear Harry Roberts Guy Telesnicki Re4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 15:37 28.35701639 -88.79243328 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Ni4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 15:41 28.35701663 -88.79243354 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Ye

dep

4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 15:45 28.35701595 -88.79243416 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Mu4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 15:56 28.35701214 -88.79242785 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Ye

1,2

4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 16:00 28.35701531 -88.79243203 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Slu

bra

4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 16:08 28.35700960 -88.79242800 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Ne

sam

4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 16:25 28.35684735 -88.79275408 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Ni4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 16:33 28.35682499 -88.79276285 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Pu

maRe

230
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 17:37 28.35638800 -88.79307935 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT 1 l4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 17:37 28.35638800 -88.79307935 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Mu4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 17:42 28.35637943 -88.79308487 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Ni4182 MC640 1410 5/18/2006 17:43 28.35637711 -88.79308268 Pat Hickey Bob Carney PIT Pu4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 14:58 27.64716006 -88.37394226 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Tw4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 16:07 27.64743598 -88.37392894 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Ma

tub

4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 16:36 27.64740908 -88.37394170 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Ma

tub

4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 16:49 27.64742126 -88.37395479 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Mo

clo

4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 17:30 27.64747180 -88.37407465 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva 1 s

car

4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 17:30 27.64747180 -88.37407465 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Ba

gra

4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 17:47 27.64719816 -88.37395332 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva 1 s

car

4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 17:47 27.64719816 -88.37395332 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Bu4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 18:28 27.64566399 -88.37047091 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Co

cor

4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 18:44 27.64566905 -88.37046218 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Co4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 19:00 27.64567445 -88.37041617 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Slu

an

4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 19:30 27.64463582 -88.36313513 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva De4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 19:39 27.64449399 -88.36310889 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Mo

roa

4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 19:45 27.64505625 -88.36310903 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Ba

231
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4183 AT340 2175 5/19/2006 19:48 27.64520603 -88.36308171 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Adriana Leiva Ba4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 14:25 27.37323512 -90.57566438 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles Dr4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 17:12 27.37198656 -90.57340318 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles Ni4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 17:23 27.37199002 -90.57340311 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles 2 s

sam

4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 17:23 27.37199002 -90.57340311 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles Ye

cla

4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 17:41 27.37199935 -90.57341006 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles Cl

car

4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 17:55 27.37200733 -90.57342351 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles Ro4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 19:12 27.36650148 -90.56391870 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles N4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 19:16 27.36651657 -90.56392994 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles Dr

tooroc

4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 19:22 27.36650222 -90.56392320 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles 2 s

car2 

4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 19:22 27.36650222 -90.56392320 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles Cl4184 GC600 1250 5/20/2006 19:35 27.36651593 -90.56392333 Gavin Eppard Stephane Hourdez Marshall Bowles Slu

cra

4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 14:45 27.10590706 -91.16572768 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison De4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 14:52 27.10591292 -91.16572970 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Se4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 15:05 27.10586444 -91.16601322 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Re4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 16:23 27.10968413 -91.16540625 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Co4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 16:45 27.10959154 -91.16549012 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Co

232
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 17:52 27.11085603 -91.16565289 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Co

sam

4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 17:52 27.11085603 -91.16565289 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison De

#2 

4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 17:52 27.11085603 -91.16565289 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Sp4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 18:05 27.11087553 -91.16562954 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Cr4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 18:12 27.11088447 -91.16563330 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Co4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 18:20 27.11091394 -91.16561953 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Co

ma

4185 GC852 1410 5/21/2006 18:48 27.10995915 -91.16593877 Mark Spear Monika Bright Cheryl Morrison Co4186 GC852 1410 5/22/2006 15:56 27.10635657 -91.16618318 Pat Hickey Chuck Fisher Erin Becker at 4186 GC852 1410 5/22/2006 16:08 27.10638635 -91.16612887 Pat Hickey Chuck Fisher Erin Becker De4186 GC852 1410 5/22/2006 16:24 27.10619126 -91.16613587 Pat Hickey Chuck Fisher Erin Becker Mu4186 GC852 1410 5/22/2006 17:43 27.10619210 -91.16613065 Pat Hickey Chuck Fisher Erin Becker De

absta

4186 GC852 1410 5/22/2006 18:05 27.10595746 -91.16622784 Pat Hickey Chuck Fisher Erin Becker Bu4186 GC852 1410 5/22/2006 18:22 27.10595072 -91.16623594 Pat Hickey Chuck Fisher Erin Becker Ca

roc

4186 GC852 1410 5/22/2006 18:22 27.10595072 -91.16623594 Pat Hickey Chuck Fisher Erin Becker Slu4187 GC852 1410 5/23/2006 14:19 27.10627679 -91.16612168 Bruce Strickrott Erik Cordes PIT Sean At 

nav 

4187 GC852 1410 5/23/2006 16:15 27.11092930 -91.16563683 Bruce Strickrott Erik Cordes PIT Sean Mu

car

4187 GC852 1410 5/23/2006 16:38 27.11093301 -91.16559239 Bruce Strickrott Erik Cordes PIT Sean De

sta

4187 GC852 1410 5/23/2006 17:25 27.11126986 -91.16554374 Bruce Strickrott Erik Cordes PIT Sean Bu

233
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4187 GC852 1410 5/23/2006 17:55 27.11113716 -91.16543614 Bruce Strickrott Erik Cordes PIT Sean Re4187 GC852 1410 5/23/2006 18:13 27.11109414 -91.16533438 Bruce Strickrott Erik Cordes PIT Sean De

sta

4187 GC852 1410 5/23/2006 18:38 27.11073273 -91.16558741 Bruce Strickrott Erik Cordes PIT Sean Mu4187 GC852 1410 5/23/2006 19:30 27.10994806 -91.16591835 Bruce Strickrott Erik Cordes PIT Sean Mo4187 GC852 1410 5/23/2006 20:19 27.11002441 -91.16599061 Bruce Strickrott Erik Cordes PIT Sean Gr

fro

4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 16:39 27.10962838 -91.16583993 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison De4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 16:56 27.10956311 -91.16596107 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Co4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 17:09 27.10956207 -91.16596204 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Th4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 17:15 27.10956263 -91.16596135 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Ca

co

4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 17:28 27.10954937 -91.16591027 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Sa

ma

4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 17:48 27.11073239 -91.16542413 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Re4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 18:03 27.11082444 -91.16568254 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Fir

#4

4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 18:10 27.11082626 -91.16568493 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Re4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 18:50 27.11063536 -91.16593047 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Ye4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 19:07 27.10974384 -91.16615795 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Co4189 GC852 1410 5/24/2006 19:55 27.10968478 -91.16643060 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Cheryl Morrison Co4190 GC852 1410 5/25/2006 14:33 27.11089199 -91.16556501 Mark Spear Bob Carney Meg Bernier Ca4190 GC852 1410 5/25/2006 15:55 27.10988105 -91.16605704 Mark Spear Bob Carney Meg Bernier Co

co

234
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4190 GC852 1410 5/25/2006 18:13 27.10634876 -91.16662567 Mark Spear Bob Carney Meg Bernier Re

exptra

4190 GC852 1410 5/25/2006 18:13 27.10634876 -91.16662567 Mark Spear Bob Carney Meg Bernier Tr

2 

4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 15:25 26.68584842 -91.65950000 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Mo

fie

4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 16:13 26.68585277 -91.65943294 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Ni4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 16:34 26.68585359 -91.65943805 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik 12 

po

4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 16:45 26.68584936 -91.65943976 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Slu

fri

4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 17:45 26.68623861 -91.66249239 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Sc

bioan

4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 18:02 26.68623575 -91.66249352 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Ni4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 18:08 26.68621371 -91.66252919 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Tu

nis

4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 18:25 26.68614540 -91.66273958 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Mu4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 18:41 26.68614449 -91.66273524 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Ni4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 18:41 26.68614449 -91.66273524 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Tu4191 WR269 1950 5/26/2006 18:43 26.68615072 -91.66268446 Pat Hickey Harry Roberts Matt Kupchik Ca

roc

4192 AC818 2740 5/27/2006 16:34 26.18007124 -94.62332043 Bruce Strickrott Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Mu

carmu

4192 AC818 2740 5/27/2006 16:34 26.18007124 -94.62332043 Bruce Strickrott Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Re4192 AC818 2740 5/27/2006 18:15 26.18031058 -94.62299540 Bruce Strickrott Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy De

#1 

4192 AC818 2740 5/27/2006 18:25 26.18032212 -94.62299783 Bruce Strickrott Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Gr

235
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4192 AC818 2740 5/27/2006 18:38 26.18033419 -94.62299176 Bruce Strickrott Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Re4192 AC818 2740 5/27/2006 19:22 26.18033930 -94.62299229 Bruce Strickrott Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Mu4192 AC818 2740 5/27/2006 19:41 26.18033421 -94.62299557 Bruce Strickrott Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Ro

sam

4192 AC818 2740 5/27/2006 20:10 26.18063365 -94.62306222 Bruce Strickrott Stephane Hourdez Mike McCarthy Ye

urc

4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 14:27 26.39109301 -94.51640515 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Re4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 14:46 26.38917276 -94.51498331 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Tw

Y6

4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 15:06 26.38997174 -94.51398619 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Sa4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 15:34 26.39031791 -94.51352748 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Ro4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 15:56 26.39001010 -94.51400350 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Slu4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 16:03 26.39001444 -94.51399530 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Pu

ne

4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 17:08 26.39185364 -94.51487329 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Ni4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 17:12 26.39181519 -94.51491989 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye #1

bri

4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 17:30 26.39216157 -94.51492716 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye #5

po

4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 17:49 26.39245723 -94.51346072 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye #R4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 17:59 26.39228399 -94.51343532 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye At

cry

4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 18:09 26.39200087 -94.51355430 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Ca

larrid

4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 18:48 26.39208202 -94.51521337 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Pu

mifie

236
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4193 AC601 2340 5/28/2006 18:51 26.39208131 -94.51521359 Gavin Eppard Harry Roberts Mandy Joye Sc

mucar

4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 14:32 26.35276965 -94.50737606 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen 2 r4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 14:40 26.35448739 -94.50942685 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Co

co

4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 16:12 26.35433470 -94.49826002 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Mu4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 16:29 26.35434411 -94.49824978 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen 

Rorocbomo

4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 16:45 26.35435148 -94.49823508 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Gr

clu

4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 16:58 26.35442288 -94.49841938 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Pu4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 17:04 26.35444044 -94.49845174 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Pu4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 17:05 26.35444043 -94.49845173 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Ni4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 17:13 26.35444820 -94.49834450 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Ma4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 17:39 26.35434091 -94.49744296 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen So

cofro

4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 18:22 26.35516997 -94.49865260 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Se4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 18:30 26.35518301 -94.49865207 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Pu

ba

4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 18:41 26.35523857 -94.49863592 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Ni4194 AC645 2240 5/29/2006 19:10 26.35480803 -94.49823122 Mark Spear Bob Carney Cindy Petersen Ne

ho

4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 14:42 26.18013755 -94.62276839 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring Re

237
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 14:54 26.18021658 -94.62301668 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring At 4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 16:36 26.18017507 -94.62298908 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring Bu

roc

4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 17:05 26.18014656 -94.62300305 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring De

sta

4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 17:21 26.18021399 -94.62298475 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring De

2n

4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 17:29 26.18031411 -94.62301068 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring 3rd 

ma

4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 18:31 26.18065005 -94.62279433 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring 

Slusqugapo

4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 18:45 26.18084772 -94.62289617 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring Mu

1 broc

4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 18:57 26.17987855 -94.62323654 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring Slu4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 19:06 26.18013517 -94.62282694 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring Pu

bu

4195 AC818 2740 5/30/2006 19:14 26.18018699 -94.62282498 Pat Hickey Erik Cordes Liz Goehring 2 l

co#3 

4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 15:11 26.39235023 -94.51421983 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Pe

ch

4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 15:27 26.39230210 -94.51411562 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Pe

ch

4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 17:09 26.39208968 -94.51375551 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Slu4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 17:20 26.39244268 -94.51376537 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Re4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 17:31 26.39248183 -94.51380398 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Co4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 17:37 26.39248196 -94.51380323 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Oc

238
DIVE

NUM Site Depth (m) Date Time Lat Mean Lon Mean Pilot Port Observer STB Observer Ac4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 17:45 26.39222156 -94.51382848 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter 6 p4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 18:00 26.39186735 -94.51384672 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Ca

co

4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 18:42 26.39031060 -94.51437619 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Bu4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 19:32 26.39045026 -94.51382057 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Re4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 19:34 26.39050095 -94.51356327 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter De

#1 

4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 19:35 26.39047826 -94.51354937 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Ca4196 AC601 2330 5/31/2006 20:21 26.39146400 -94.51488008 Bruce Strickrott Chuck Fisher Jeremy Potter Mu4197 AC645 2200 6/1/2006 14:29 26.35388547 -94.49602851 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Kazumi Shibata Mu

ma

4197 AC645 2200 6/1/2006 14:57 26.35387337 -94.49601058 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Kazumi Shibata Mu

ma

4197 AC645 2200 6/1/2006 15:16 26.35387452 -94.49601434 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Kazumi Shibata Mu4197 AC645 2200 6/1/2006 15:33 26.35436315 -94.49729308 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Kazumi Shibata Ca4197 AC645 2200 6/1/2006 15:45 26.35411139 -94.49743801 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Kazumi Shibata Me

top 

4197 AC645 2200 6/1/2006 15:45 26.35411139 -94.49743801 Gavin Eppard Ian MacDonald Kazumi Shibata Sm

cohil

239
241

APPENDIX C – AUV FEBRUARY 2007 

I read the pages that you are including in the appendix 

and you have my permission to use them in the report. If 

you need anything further please do not hesitate to call. 

Jay G. Northcutt 

Geophysical Division Manager 

C & C Technologies, Inc. 

730 East Kaliste Saloom Road 

Lafayette, Louisiana 70508 

www.cctechnol.com 
Appendix 1. AUV Specifications and Logs 

243
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

APPENDIX A 

INSTRUMENT SETTINGS 

SURVEY CONFIGURATION 

EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTIONS

245
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

INSTRUMENT SETTINGS 

COASTALSTUDIES INSTITUTE 

SITE SURVEY 

BLOCK 340, ATWATER VALLEY AREA 

BLOCK 852, GREEN CANYON AREA 

BLOCK 269, WALKER RIDGE AREA

BLOCK 601, ALAMINOS CANYON AREA 

EDGETECH CHIRPED SUBBOTTOM PROFILER

Acoustic Source Level = 200 dB re 1 Pa at one meter 

Beam Width = 15° - 25° 

Record Length = 100 meters (1,500 meters/second) 

Record Divisions = 10 meters 

Delay = Variable in meters 

Setback = None (acoustically positioned) 

Frequency = 2 to 8 kilohertz (Chirped/Frequency Modulated) 

EDGETECH DUAL FREQUENCY SIDE SCAN SONAR 

Frequency = 120 kilohertz 

Acoustic Source Level = 210 dB re 1Pa @ 1 m 

Transducer Radiation = 0.8horizontal composite, 70vertical 

Range = 225 meters per channel 

Record Divisions = 50 meters 

Pulse Bandwidth = 12 kHz 

SIMRAD EM-2000 MULTIBEAM ECHOSOUNDER

Frequency = 200 kHz 

Ping Rate = 3 times per second 

Number of Beams per Ping = 111 

Beamwidth = 2° acrosstrack; 1.5° alongtrack 

Pulse Length = 0.05 – 0.25 msecs

SURVEY VESSEL 

R/V Northern Resolution 

Average speed during survey = 3.8 knots 

Survey sea state = Calm to 6 feet

246
730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM

ANTENNA OFFSETS

CENTER 

OF 

GRAVITY

5.029m

CENTER 

OF 

GRAVITY

PRIM. GPS

ANTENNA

5.029m

4.8m

14.5m

8.7m

.424m

HIPAP

HULL UNIT

.424m

.507m

PRIM. GPS

ANTENNA

SECONDARY 

AND TERTIARY 

GPS ANTENNA

.398m

TERTIARY GPS 

ANTENNA

SECONDARY

GPS ANTENNA 3.984m

1.32m

HIPAP

HULL UNIT

EA600

Z +29 200 KHZ Z +14 H. PAP

CRP

35.585m

EM 1002 Z=781 BELOW 

KEEL WHEN FULLY 

EXTENDED PITCH +0.49°

EM 120 YAW 0.933° 

TO STARBOARD

PITCH =0.85°

Z +51

SUBBOTTOM

8.045m

8.798m

1.004m

1.011m

6.389m

9.988m

2.959m

12.413m

.827m 3.145m

247
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C-Surveyor II TM Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) 

The C-Surveyor II TM Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) is designed to collect deepwater, high-resolution geophysical data for site and route surveys in water depths up to 3,000 

meters. C & C Technologies, Inc. worked with Kongsberg Simrad in developing the complex 

system design in the year 2005. A schematic diagram (Figure 1) of the vehicle and major system 

components is presented following this text. 

Primary survey sensors found in the system payload include a Simrad EM 2000 Swath 

Bathymetric System, EdgeTech Chirp Side Scan Sonar and an EdgeTech Chirp Subbottom 

Profiler. An inertial guidance system is used for primary positioning of the underwater vehicle. 

Ancillary sensors include a precision depth sensor, altimeter, acoustic Doppler log and a 

salinity/temperature probe for calculating water column sound velocity. Transponders on the 

system for transmission of data include the HiPAP (High Precision Acoustic Positioning), ACL 

(Acoustic Command Link) and ADL (Acoustic Data Link). An aluminum/oxygen fuel cell 

powers the AUV for a period of up to 60 hours. Emergency ascent systems include a drop 

weight and air bag. A pinger, radio beacon, flashing light and GPS/RF link output visual and 

remote sensing aids used in locating the AUV should an event occur where communication is 

lost with the survey ship. 

Three industrial strength computers control all the system functions within the C-Surveyor II 

TM. These computers are referred to as the Control Processor, Payload Processor and Navigation 

Processor. The processors use artificial intelligence algorithms based on feedback returned from 

the more than 75 sensors to make real-time decisions regarding the system performance. Two 

titanium spheres, payload and control, house the computers and dual 50-gigabyte data storage 

drives. 

Three topside computers communicate continuously with the vehicle while it is in operation. 

The C-Surveyor II TM Operator Station is responsible for monitoring all the sensors found in 

the vehicle and generates warnings to the operator when the values are out of optimal range. The 

Payload Operator Station computer provides the user with graphical views of the reduced subsets 

of the subbottom, bathymetry and side scan sonar data. It also allows the user to turn the systems 

248
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

on or off and adjust instrument settings as needed. The third topside computer is the HiPAP 

Operator Station. This computer provides a real-time graphic display of the C-Surveyor II TM

vehicle subsurface position and the surface position of the mother ship, which travels directly 

above the AUV while collecting data. C & C’s C-NAV® Differential GPS provides the mother 

ship positions while the AUV vehicle positions are calculated using ultra short baseline acoustics 

(USBL), inertial navigation and Doppler velocity speed log. 

Primary positioning of the C-Surveyor II TM is controlled by the inertial navigation system. 

This system uses precision gyros and accelerometers to maintain the AUV track of the mission 

plan (trackline running sequence). The mission plan is downloaded to the C-Surveyor II TM

system computers before deployment. The HiPAP system and Doppler velocity speed log 

provide input into the inertial navigation system for guidance system checks. These inputs are 

weighted and applied to the positioning solution using a Kalman digital filter. Post processing 

routines can be implemented to further refine the subsea positions. 

Simrad’s EM 2000 Swath Bathymetry System collects soundings in approximately a 200-meter 

swath underneath the C-Surveyor II TM vehicle. An onboard velocimeter provides real-time 

data at the transducer for proper beam forming of the acoustic transmissions. The system is 

capable of collecting 111 beams or soundings across the swath. A high-precision depth sensor 

provides the C- C-Surveyor II TM vehicle depth. The data are processed utilizing C & C’s 

proprietary HydroMap software. 

The C-Surveyor II TM is equipped with a dual frequency chirp EdgeTech Side Scan Sonar that 

uses a calibrated wide band digital frequency modulated (FM) signal to provide high resolution, 

low-noise images. This sonar simultaneously transmits linearly swept FM pulses centered at two 

discrete frequencies: 120 kHz and 410 kHz. The raw data files are post-processed and converted 

to XTF (eXtended Triton Format) for digital interpretation and hardcopy generation. 

Seismic profiles are collected with an EdgeTech Chirp Subbottom Profiler. The transmit pulses 

are generated in the frequency band between 2 and 8 kHz. The system takes advantage of builtin deconvolution of the system response of the output pulse. The sonar’s measured system 

249
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

impulse response is used to design a unique output pulse that will prevent the source from 

ringing. The raw seismic data can be post processed to create SEG-Y or XTF datasets. 

Figure 1 - C-Surveyor II TM (complete system)

250
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Survey Sensors: 

Simrad EM 2000 Bathymetry and Imagery (200 kHz, 150°) 

Side Scan Sonar: Chirp (120 kHz and/or 410 kHz) 

Subbottom Profiler: Chirp (2 –8 kHz) 

Ancillary Sensors: 

Inertial Navigation 

Simrad HiPAP USBL 

Doppler Velocity Log 

Kalman Filter 

Fiber Optic Gyro 

Motion Reference Unit 

Digiquartz Depth Unit 

Single-Beam Altimeter 

DGPS 

Acoustic Communications 

 Command and Control (Low Speed Acoustic Modem) 

 Data Uplink (High Speed Acoustic Modem) 

Vessel Specifications: 

Depth Rating: 3,000 meters 

Length: 6.1 meters 

Maximum Diameter: 0.96 meters 

Normal Speed: 4 knots 

Underwater Endurance @ 4 knots: 60 hours 

Power: Aluminum Oxygen Fuel Cell 

Survey Equipment Specifications: 

Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam Echo Sounder

Frequency 200 kHz 

Maximum Ping Rate 10 times per second 

Number of Beams per Ping 111 

Beamwidth 2° acrosstrack; 1.5° alongtrack 

Beam Spacing Equiangle or equidistant 

Coverage Sector 150° 

Depth Resolution 2 cm 

Pulse Length 0.05 – 0.25 msecs 

Range Sampling Rate 10 kHz 

Sonar Head Depth Rating 6,000 meters 

251
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C-NAV DIFFERENTIAL GPS 

C-Nav is a globally corrected differential GPS system owned and operated by C & C 

Technologies, Inc. The C-Nav GPS Receiver combines a dual-frequency, geodetic grade, GPS 

Receiver with an integrated L-BAND communication RF detector and decoder all linked by an 

internal microprocessor. C-Nav uses monitoring stations strategically located around the globe 

to provide worldwide accuracies in the order of 0.25m (1 sigma)*. 

The technique, developed by the Jet Propulsion Lab for the National Aeronautics Space 

Administration, uses a global network of reference stations to track the entire constellation of 

GPS satellites. The raw GPS observations are transmitted via the Internet back to the Network 

Control Center where the GPS constellation satellite orbital corrections and clock-offset values 

are calculated and modeled in real-time. These corrections are universally valid and can be 

applied to GPS measurements from any location on earth. 

The multi-function antenna assembly is capable of receiving the L1 and L2 GPS frequencies as 

well as the Inmarsat L-BAND receive frequency band. The gain pattern of this antenna is 

designed to be relatively constant even at lower elevations. This allows for an efficient link 

budget when the unit is operated at higher latitudes where the elevation of the geo-stationary 

communication satellite is low and close to the horizon. Atmospheric delays are eliminated from 

local measurements by comparing the L1 and L2 frequencies in the internal GPS receiver. 

252
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Full Spectrum Chirp Side Scan Sonar

Modulation Full spectrum chirp frequency modulated pulse with 

amplitude and phase weighting 

Dual Frequency Combinations 120/410 kHz 

Common

Vertical Beam Width 70o 

Depression Angle 25o from horizontal 

A/D Resolution 16 bits 

Sample Rate ~2,000 samples per channel 

Frequency Specific 

Center Frequency 120 kHz 410 kHz 

Pulse Bandwidth 12 kHz 41 kHz 

Pulse Length 8.3 msec. 2.4 msec. 

Range Scale Selection (per side) 25-500 meters 12.5-100 meters 

Maximum Ping Rate 30 pps 60 pps 

Range Resolution 6.25 cm 1.8 cm 

Horizontal 3 dB Beam Width 0.8o 0.5o 

Transmit Power 200 Watts 160 Watts 

Peak Source Level 210 dB 216 dB 

 (ref = 1Pa @ 1 m) 

Receiver Sensitivity -190 dB -196 dB 

 (ref = 1 V/Pa @ center frequency) 

Full Spectrum Chirp Subbottom Profiler

Modulation Full Spectrum Chirp Frequency Modulated Pulse with 

amplitude and phase weighting 

Source Level 200 dB re 1 Pa at one meter 

Transmit Power 200 Watts 

Receive Sensitivity -204 dB re 1 Pa at one meter 

Receiver Variable Gain 38 – 105 dB, automatic or manual control 

Noise Level 70 dB re 1 Pa at one meter over sonar bandwidth 

(at hydrophone input) 

Pulse Repetition Frequency 15 Hz maximum 

Calibration Each system is acoustic tank tested to calibrate for 

reflection coefficient measurements 

Frequency Band 2 – 8 kHz 

Number of Hydrophone Arrays 2 

Resolution 6 – 10 cm 

Beam Width 15o - 25o 

253
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Survey Sensors: 

Simrad EM 2000 Bathymetry and Imagery (200 kHz, 150°) 

Side Scan Sonar: Chirp (120 kHz and/or 410 kHz) 

Subbottom Profiler: Chirp (2 –8 kHz) 

Ancillary Sensors: 

Inertial Navigation 

Simrad HiPAP USBL 

Doppler Velocity Log 

Kalman Filter 

Fiber Optic Gyro 

Motion Reference Unit 

Digiquartz Depth Unit 

Single-Beam Altimeter 

DGPS 

Acoustic Communications 

 Command and Control (Low Speed Acoustic Modem) 

 Data Uplink (High Speed Acoustic Modem) 

Vessel Specifications: 

Depth Rating: 3,000 meters 

Length: 6.1 meters 

Maximum Diameter: 0.96 meters 

Normal Speed: 4 knots 

Underwater Endurance @ 4 knots: 60 hours 

Power: Aluminum Oxygen Fuel Cell 

Survey Equipment Specifications: 

Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam Echo Sounder

Frequency 200 kHz 

Maximum Ping Rate 10 times per second 

Number of Beams per Ping 111 

Beamwidth 2° acrosstrack; 1.5° alongtrack 

Beam Spacing Equiangle or equidistant 

Coverage Sector 150° 

Depth Resolution 2 cm 

Pulse Length 0.05 – 0.25 msecs 

Range Sampling Rate 10 kHz 

Sonar Head Depth Rating 6,000 meters 

254
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

impulse response is used to design a unique output pulse that will prevent the source from 

ringing. The raw seismic data can be post processed to create SEG-Y or XTF datasets. 

Figure 1 - C-Surveyor II TM (complete system)

255
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C-Surveyor II TM Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) 

The C-Surveyor II TM Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) is designed to collect deepwater, high-resolution geophysical data for site and route surveys in water depths up to 3,000 

meters. C & C Technologies, Inc. worked with Kongsberg Simrad in developing the complex 

system design in the year 2005. A schematic diagram (Figure 1) of the vehicle and major system 

components is presented following this text. 

Primary survey sensors found in the system payload include a Simrad EM 2000 Swath 

Bathymetric System, EdgeTech Chirp Side Scan Sonar and an EdgeTech Chirp Subbottom 

Profiler. An inertial guidance system is used for primary positioning of the underwater vehicle. 

Ancillary sensors include a precision depth sensor, altimeter, acoustic Doppler log and a 

salinity/temperature probe for calculating water column sound velocity. Transponders on the 

system for transmission of data include the HiPAP (High Precision Acoustic Positioning), ACL 

(Acoustic Command Link) and ADL (Acoustic Data Link). An aluminum/oxygen fuel cell 

powers the AUV for a period of up to 60 hours. Emergency ascent systems include a drop 

weight and air bag. A pinger, radio beacon, flashing light and GPS/RF link output visual and 

remote sensing aids used in locating the AUV should an event occur where communication is 

lost with the survey ship. 

Three industrial strength computers control all the system functions within the C-Surveyor II 

TM. These computers are referred to as the Control Processor, Payload Processor and Navigation 

Processor. The processors use artificial intelligence algorithms based on feedback returned from 

the more than 75 sensors to make real-time decisions regarding the system performance. Two 

titanium spheres, payload and control, house the computers and dual 50-gigabyte data storage 

drives. 

Three topside computers communicate continuously with the vehicle while it is in operation. 

The C-Surveyor II TM Operator Station is responsible for monitoring all the sensors found in 

the vehicle and generates warnings to the operator when the values are out of optimal range. The 

Payload Operator Station computer provides the user with graphical views of the reduced subsets 

of the subbottom, bathymetry and side scan sonar data. It also allows the user to turn the systems 

256
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Specifications: 

Measurement

Range

Initial 

Accuracy Resolution Sensor Calibration 

Conductivity 0 to 7 S/m +/- 0.001 S/m +/- 0.0001 S/m

0 – 7 S/m 

Physical calibration over 

the range 1.4 to 6 S/m, plus 

zero conductivity (air) 

Temperature 

(oC) -5 to + 35 +/- 0.01 +/-0.001 

-1 to +31 

(Measurements outside this 

range may be at slightly 

reduces accuracy due to 

extrapolation errors) 

Depth 68 to 1000 m +/- 0.25% +/- 0.015% Minimum 5 values between 

0 and full scale 

257
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

APPENDIX B 

PROJECT PERSONNEL 

DAILY PROGRESS REPORTS 

SURVEY LOGS

259
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

PROJECT PERSONNEL 

FIELD PERSONNEL 

R/V NORTHERN RESOLUTIN:

Scott McBay – Party Chief 

David Aucoin – Shift Leader 

Cole Gibbens –COS Operator 

Beau Hollie – Shift Leader 

Mark Gatch – COS Operator 

T.J. Maise – AUV Van Crew Chief 

Gerard Lege – AUV Technician 

Keith Dominque – AUV Technician 

Josh Saran – AUV Technician 

Scotty Belaire – Data Processor 

Will Harwell – Data Processor 

Tim Badeaux – ACAD Operator 

Kim Eslinger – Geologist 

Eddie Romero – Additional C&C Crew (trainee) 

Tom Javins – Medic 

Mark Quinney – Cook 

OFFICE PERSONNEL 

Jay Northcutt – Geophysical Projects Manager 

Ralph Coleman – Database Calculations 

Jason Duplechin – Data Processor 

Tony George – Geosciences Manager 

Ave McBride – Cartographer 

Nicole Douglas – Geophysical Assistant 

Nikki Bono – Geophysical Assistant 

260
JOB # 072265 DPR # 1 Mission: 2/7/2007

Lat: N28 01.3201 Lon: W88 08.3575

tdr@cctechnol.com Tom Richards C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

jsm@cctechnol.com Scott McBay

ces@cctechnol.com Charlie Spann

jgn@cctechnol.com

hrober3@lsu.edu

Client Distibution List

Client Representative

Paige Melancon

Jay Northcutt

Project Dates/Times

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies:

Dr. Harry Roberts

pcm@cctechnol.com

C&C Technologies

run070207_1

E-mail Address Company

Vessel R/V Northern Resolution

Midnight Location

Scope of Work

Client

DPR Distribution List:

LSU

Name

smm@cctechnol.com Scott Melancon

Completed Demobilization

Completed Coring

Commenced Demobilization

Commenced Additional Work

Completed Additional Work

Completed Calibrations 

Commenced Coring

Commenced Scope of Work 2/7/2007 1000

Completed Rerun's

Arrived alongside

Completed Scope of Work

Commenced Rerun's

2/7/2007

dja@cctechnol.com

tsc@cctechnol.com Thomas Chance

jef@cctechnol.com

Dave Alleman

Jeff Fortenberry

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

AUV Site Survey

Project Name

Survey Area

AUV Site Survey 

Multiple Areas

Commenced Calibrations 

2/7/2007

**Note** All Times In UTC (GMT) 

2/7/2007 0800

Time:

Completed Mobilization

Date:

Commenced Mobilization 0600

Arrived at Job Site

Transit to Job Site 2/7/2007 0600

0800

261
Today To Date

0 0 2

2 0 2/5/2007

2 0 2/7/2007

1 0 2/2/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

Medical treatment cases 0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 33

Comments: 

Swell

Swell

From To Total

Hr:Min Hr:Min Hr:Min Code

0:00 8:00 8:00 MD

8:00 10:00 2:00 AIV

10:00 11:00 1:00 ALR

11:00 0:00 13:00 RL

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

Code Today To Date

MD 8.00 0.00

TR 0.00 0.00

CA 0.00 0.00

AIV 2.00 0.00

RL 13.00 0.00

ALR 1.00 0.00

AW 0.00 0.00

CO 0.00 0.00

SB 0.00 0.00

ED 0.00 0.00

VD 0.00 0.00

RR 0.00 0.00

WOW 0.00 0.00

OTH 0.00 0.00

Totals 24.00 0.00

OP(AUV L&R)

Calibrations

Transit 

0.00

Op(AUV running lines) 13.00

Mobilization/Demob 8.00

Op(AUV in the Van)

1.00

0.00

15

Cumulative Times

Description Cumulative

0600-1200 ENE

1

Wind Speed Knots

Lost time incidents

Last Man Over Board Drill

Total Personnel On Board

Time Seas Meters

Restricted work cases

Last Abandon Ship Drill

0.00

0.00

24.00

Other 0.00

Job Kickoff Meeting

Last Safety Committee

2.00

First aid cases

Stop Cards

Last Safety Meeting

Wind Direction

Weather - Last 24 hours

Safety

Tailgate Meetings

Last Fire Drill

JSA Review

Shift Change Meetings

Vessel Downtime

Re Runs 0.00

AUV Survey

0.00

0.00

Additional work (Clients request)

Equipment Downtime

0.00

Coring 0.00

Standby 

Weather Downtime

 

Ops Planned Next 3 Days: 

15

12

NE

2-3

SE

0000-0600 ENE 2-3

Safety/Orientation inductions

1200-1800 1

2/9/2007 E

E

Date

2/8/2007

1800-2400

10

Forecast Next 48 Hours

12

1

Description

Mobilize

Daily Chronology Summary

Wind Direction

10

Wind Speed knots Seas Meters

Launch AUV

1

CTD

Survey

262
0

0.00%

Complete Remain

50% 50%

50% 50%

Today To Date Complete Remain Days

60.90 60.90 28.19% 71.81% 1.11

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0 0 0.00

Days

0.00

0.00

1.11

C&C:

Client:

Description

Data Acquisition

Mob/Demob

Calculations Based on 12 Cores Taken in a 24 Hour Period

Rerun's Primary

0.00

Battery Change + LR

Piston

Complete

Box

0

0

0

Totals

0.00

Survey Additional 0.00

216.00

Percentage

0

Survey Primary 

Bridge Voice-----Ext. 2913 001-874-327-302-889

Contact Numbers

SAT B

R/V Northern Resolution

Lab Voice------Ext. 2911 VSAT

Scott McBay

C&C Representative Client Representative

AUV Field Project Manager

Client Representative

1 0

0

0

Total

0

Description

Anode Changes

Coring

Rerun's Additional

337-261-0192

Party Chief Voice-----Ext. 2912

C&C TECHNOLOGIES

Office

Office Fax

337-261-0660

Comments

(337) 237-4242 Then Appropriate Ext.

Failed Dives During 

Mission

0.00%

0

Remain

Recovery Fluid Change

Calculations Based On 140 Km in a 24 Hour Period

Description Total

Planned Dives 

Complete

Transit

Percentages: Survey Operations

Dives 

Aborted

0.00% 0.00%

Failed Dives Prior To 

Cumulative Dives Start of Mission

Dive Summary

263
JOB # 072265 DPR # 2 Mission: 2/8/2007

Lat: N28 01.3201 Lon: W88 08.3575

Arrived at Job Site

Transit to Job Site 2/7/2007 0600

0800

Date:

Commenced Mobilization 0600

Commenced Calibrations 

AUV Site Survey

Project Name

Survey Area

AUV Site Survey 

Multiple Areas

tsc@cctechnol.com

jef@cctechnol.com

Dave Alleman

Jeff Fortenberry

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

2/7/2007

dja@cctechnol.com

Thomas Chance

2/7/2007

**Note** All Times In UTC (GMT) 

2/7/2007 0800

Time:

Completed Mobilization

Completed Scope of Work

Commenced Rerun's

Commenced Scope of Work 2/7/2007 1000

Completed Calibrations 

Commenced Coring

Completed Coring

Commenced Demobilization

Commenced Additional Work

Completed Additional Work

Completed Rerun's

Arrived alongside

Completed Demobilization

Name

smm@cctechnol.com Scott Melancon

DPR Distribution List:

LSU

pcm@cctechnol.com

C&C Technologies

run070207_1

E-mail Address Company

Vessel R/V Northern Resolution

Midnight Location

Scope of Work

Client

C&C Technologies:

Dr. Harry Roberts

Paige Melancon

Jay Northcutt

Project Dates/Times

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

Client Representative

hrober3@lsu.edu

Client Distibution List

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

jsm@cctechnol.com Scott McBay

ces@cctechnol.com Charlie Spann

jgn@cctechnol.com

tdr@cctechnol.com Tom Richards C&C Technologies

264
Today To Date

0 0 2

2 0 2/5/2007

2 0 2/8/2007

1 0 2/2/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

Medical treatment cases 0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 33

Comments: 

Swell

Swell

From To Total

Hr:Min Hr:Min Hr:Min Code

0:00 3:30 3:30 RL

3:30 4:30 1:00 ALR

4:30 19:00 14:30 TR

19:00 22:30 3:30 AIV

22:30 23:30 1:00 ALR

23:30 0:00 0:30 RL

0

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

Code Today To Date

MD 0.00 8.00

TR 14.50 0.00

CA 0.00 0.00

AIV 3.50 2.00

RL 4.00 13.00

ALR 2.00 1.00

AW 0.00 0.00

CO 0.00 0.00

SB 0.00 0.00

ED 0.00 0.00

VD 0.00 0.00

RR 0.00 0.00

WOW 0.00 0.00

OTH 0.00 0.00

Totals 24.00 24.00

Launch AUV

Wind Direction

10

Wind Speed knots Seas Meters

Transit to GC852

1

Recover CSII

CTD 070807a

Forecast Next 48 Hours

12

1

Survey GC852

Description

Survey AT340

Daily Chronology Summary

1200-1800 1

2/9/2007 E

E

Date

2/8/2007

1800-2400

10

0000-0600 ENE 2-3

Safety/Orientation inductions

15

12

NE

2-3

SE

Weather Downtime

 

Ops Planned Next 3 Days: 

0.00

0.00

Additional work (Clients request)

Equipment Downtime

0.00

Vessel Downtime

Re Runs 0.00

AUV Survey

Last Fire Drill

JSA Review

Shift Change Meetings

Safety

Tailgate Meetings

First aid cases

Stop Cards

Job Kickoff Meeting

Last Safety Committee

5.50

Last Safety Meeting

0.00

48.00

Other 0.00

0.00

Restricted work cases

Last Abandon Ship Drill

Total Personnel On Board

Time Wind Direction Seas Meters

Weather - Last 24 hours

Op(AUV in the Van)

3.00

14.50

15

Cumulative Times

Description Cumulative

0600-1200 ENE

1

Mobilization/Demob

Wind Speed Knots

Lost time incidents

Last Man Over Board Drill

8.00

Coring 0.00

Standby 

OP(AUV L&R)

Calibrations

Transit 

0.00

Op(AUV running lines) 17.00

265
0

0.00%

Complete Remain

50% 50%

50% 50%

Today To Date Complete Remain Days

18.00 78.90 36.53% 63.47% 0.98

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0 0 0.00

Days

0.00

0.00

0.98

C&C:

Client:

Dive Summary

Percentages: Survey Operations

Dives 

Aborted

0.00% 0.00%

Failed Dives Prior To 

Cumulative Dives Start of Mission

Failed Dives During 

Mission

0.00%

0

Remain

Recovery Fluid Change

Calculations Based On 140 Km in a 24 Hour Period

Description Total

Planned Dives 

Complete

Transit

Comments

(337) 237-4242 Then Appropriate Ext.

337-261-0192

Party Chief Voice-----Ext. 2912

C&C TECHNOLOGIES

Office

Office Fax

1 0

0

0

Scott McBay

C&C Representative Client Representative

AUV Field Project Manager

Client Representative

Bridge Voice-----Ext. 2913 001-874-327-302-889

Contact Numbers

SAT B

R/V Northern Resolution

VSAT

Percentage

0

Survey Primary 

337-261-0660

0.00

Survey Additional 0.00

Total

Lab Voice------Ext. 2911

216.00

Totals

0

Description

Piston

Complete

Box

0

0

0

Anode Changes

Coring

Rerun's Additional 0.00

Battery Change + LR

Description

Data Acquisition

Mob/Demob

Calculations Based on 12 Cores Taken in a 24 Hour Period

Rerun's Primary

266
JOB # 072265 DPR # 3 Mission: 2/9/2007

Lat: N26 41.2369 Lon: W91 40.2744

tdr@cctechnol.com C&C Technologies Tom Richards

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

jsm@cctechnol.com Scott McBay

ces@cctechnol.com Charlie Spann

jgn@cctechnol.com

hrober3@lsu.edu

Client Distibution List

Client Representative

Paige Melancon

Jay Northcutt

Project Dates/Times

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies:

Dr. Harry Roberts

pcm@cctechnol.com

C&C Technologies

run070208_1

E-mail Address Company

Vessel R/V Northern Resolution

Midnight Location

Scope of Work

Client

DPR Distribution List:

LSU

Name

smm@cctechnol.com Scott Melancon

Completed Demobilization

Completed Coring

Commenced Demobilization

Commenced Additional Work

Completed Additional Work

Completed Calibrations 

Commenced Coring

Commenced Scope of Work 2/7/2007 1000

Completed Rerun's

Arrived alongside

Completed Scope of Work

Commenced Rerun's

2/7/2007

dja@cctechnol.com

tsc@cctechnol.com Thomas Chance

jef@cctechnol.com

Dave Alleman

Jeff Fortenberry

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

AUV Site Survey

Project Name

Survey Area

AUV Site Survey 

Multiple Areas

Commenced Calibrations 

2/7/2007

**Note** All Times In UTC (GMT) 

2/7/2007 0800

Time:

Completed Mobilization

Date:

Commenced Mobilization 0600

Arrived at Job Site

Transit to Job Site 2/7/2007 0600

0800

267
Today To Date

1 0 2

2 2 2/5/2007

2 2 2/9/2007

1 1 2/2/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

Medical treatment cases 0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 33

Comments: 

Swell

Swell

From To Total

Hr:Min Hr:Min Hr:Min Code

0:00 12:00 12:00 RL

12:00 13:30 1:30 ALR

13:30 17:00 3:30 TR

17:00 18:30 1:30 AIV

18:30 20:00 1:30 ALR

20:00 0:00 4:00 RL

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

Code Today To Date

MD 0.00 8.00

TR 3.50 14.50

CA 0.00 0.00

AIV 1.50 5.50

RL 16.00 17.00

ALR 3.00 3.00

AW 0.00 0.00

CO 0.00 0.00

SB 0.00 0.00

ED 0.00 0.00

VD 0.00 0.00

RR 0.00 0.00

WOW 0.00 0.00

OTH 0.00 0.00

Totals 24.00 48.00

OP(AUV L&R)

Calibrations

Transit 

0.00

Op(AUV running lines) 33.00

Mobilization/Demob 8.00

Op(AUV in the Van)

6.00

18.00

10

Cumulative Times

Description Cumulative

0600-1200 E

1

Wind Speed Knots

Lost time incidents

Last Man Over Board Drill

Total Personnel On Board

Time Seas Meters

Restricted work cases

Last Abandon Ship Drill

0.00

0.00

72.00

Other 0.00

Job Kickoff Meeting

Last Safety Committee

7.00

First aid cases

Stop Cards

Last Safety Meeting

Wind Direction

Weather - Last 24 hours

Safety

Tailgate Meetings

Last Fire Drill

JSA Review

Shift Change Meetings

Vessel Downtime

Re Runs 0.00

AUV Survey

0.00

0.00

Additional work (Clients request)

Equipment Downtime

0.00

Coring 0.00

Standby 

Weather Downtime

 

Ops Planned Next 3 Days: 

7

3

NE

0

E

0000-0600 N 1

Safety/Orientation inductions

1200-1800 .5

2/11/2007 ESE

ENE

Date

2/10/2007

1800-2400

10

Forecast Next 48 Hours

4

1

Survey WR269

Description

Survey GC852

Daily Chronology Summary

Launch CSII

Wind Direction

5-10

Wind Speed knots Seas Meters

Transit to WR269

1

Recover CSII

CTD 070209a

268
0

0.00%

Complete Remain

50% 50%

50% 50%

Today To Date Complete Remain Days

88.05 166.95 77.29% 22.71% 0.35

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0 0 0.00

Days

0.00

0.00

0.35

C&C:

Client:

Description

Data Acquisition

Mob/Demob

Calculations Based on 12 Cores Taken in a 24 Hour Period

Rerun's Primary

0.00

Battery Change + LR

Piston

Complete

Box

0

0

0

Totals

0.00

Survey Additional 0.00

216.00

Percentage

0

Survey Primary 

Bridge Voice-----Ext. 2913 001-874-327-302-889

Contact Numbers

SAT B

R/V Northern Resolution

Lab Voice------Ext. 2911 VSAT

Scott McBay

C&C Representative Client Representative

AUV Field Project Manager

Client Representative

3 2

0

0

Total

0

Description

Anode Changes

Coring

Rerun's Additional

337-261-0192

Party Chief Voice-----Ext. 2912

C&C TECHNOLOGIES

Office

Office Fax

337-261-0660

Comments

(337) 237-4242 Then Appropriate Ext.

Failed Dives During 

Mission

0.00%

0

Remain

Recovery Fluid Change

Calculations Based On 140 Km in a 24 Hour Period

Description Total

Planned Dives 

Complete

Transit

Percentages: Survey Operations

Dives 

Aborted

66.67% 0.00%

Failed Dives Prior To 

Cumulative Dives Start of Mission

Dive Summary

269
JOB # 072265 DPR # 4 Mission: 2/10/2007

Lat: N26 21.7806 Lon: W94 31.3067

tdr@cctechnol.com C&C Technologies Tom Richards

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

jsm@cctechnol.com Scott McBay

ces@cctechnol.com Charlie Spann

jgn@cctechnol.com

hrober3@lsu.edu

Client Distibution List

Client Representative

Paige Melancon

Jay Northcutt

Project Dates/Times

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies:

Dr. Harry Roberts

pcm@cctechnol.com

C&C Technologies

run070210_1

E-mail Address Company

Vessel R/V Northern Resolution

Midnight Location

Scope of Work

Client

DPR Distribution List:

LSU

Name

smm@cctechnol.com Scott Melancon

Completed Demobilization

Completed Coring

Commenced Demobilization

Commenced Additional Work

Completed Additional Work

Completed Calibrations 

Commenced Coring

Commenced Scope of Work 2/7/2007 1000

Completed Rerun's

Arrived alongside

Completed Scope of Work

Commenced Rerun's

2/7/2007

dja@cctechnol.com

tsc@cctechnol.com Thomas Chance

jef@cctechnol.com

Dave Alleman

Jeff Fortenberry

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

AUV Site Survey

Project Name

Survey Area

AUV Site Survey 

Multiple Areas

Commenced Calibrations 

2/7/2007

**Note** All Times In UTC (GMT) 

2/7/2007 0800

Time:

Completed Mobilization

Date:

Commenced Mobilization 0600

Arrived at Job Site

Transit to Job Site 2/7/2007 0600

0800

270
Today To Date

0 1 2

2 4 2/5/2007

2 4 2/10/2007

2 2 2/10/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

Medical treatment cases 0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 33

Comments: 

Swell

Swell

From To Total

Hr:Min Hr:Min Hr:Min Code

0:00 2:30 2:30 RL

2:30 4:00 1:30 ALR

4:00 18:00 14:00 TR

18:00 20:00 2:00 AIV

20:00 21:00 1:00 ALR

21:00 0:00 3:00 RL

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

Code Today To Date

MD 0.00 8.00

TR 14.00 18.00

CA 0.00 0.00

AIV 2.00 7.00

RL 5.50 33.00

ALR 2.50 6.00

AW 0.00 0.00

CO 0.00 0.00

SB 0.00 0.00

ED 0.00 0.00

VD 0.00 0.00

RR 0.00 0.00

WOW 0.00 0.00

OTH 0.00 0.00

Totals 24.00 72.00

OP(AUV L&R)

Calibrations

Transit 

0.00

Op(AUV running lines) 38.50

Mobilization/Demob 8.00

Op(AUV in the Van)

8.50

32.00

2

Cumulative Times

Description Cumulative

0600-1200 E

1

Wind Speed Knots

Lost time incidents

Last Man Over Board Drill

Total Personnel On Board

Time Seas Meters

Restricted work cases

Last Abandon Ship Drill

0.00

0.00

96.00

Other 0.00

Job Kickoff Meeting

Last Safety Committee

9.00

First aid cases

Stop Cards

Last Safety Meeting

Wind Direction

Weather - Last 24 hours

Safety

Tailgate Meetings

Last Fire Drill

JSA Review

Shift Change Meetings

Vessel Downtime

Re Runs 0.00

AUV Survey

0.00

0.00

Additional work (Clients request)

Equipment Downtime

0.00

Coring 0.00

Standby 

Weather Downtime

 

Ops Planned Next 3 Days: 

7

3

NE

1

E

0000-0600 N .5

Safety/Orientation inductions

1200-1800 1

2/12/2007 SE

E

Date

2/11/2007

1800-2400

15

Forecast Next 48 Hours

4

2

Survey AC601

Description

Survey WR269

Daily Chronology Summary

Launch CSII

Wind Direction

15

Wind Speed knots Seas Meters

Transit to AC601

2

Recover CSII

CTD 070210a

271
0

0.00%

Complete Remain

50% 50%

50% 50%

Today To Date Complete Remain Days

21.15 188.10 87.08% 12.92% 0.20

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0 0 0.00

Days

0.00

0.00

0.20

C&C:

Client:

Description

Data Acquisition

Mob/Demob

Calculations Based on 12 Cores Taken in a 24 Hour Period

Rerun's Primary

Anode Changes

Coring

Rerun's Additional 0.00

Battery Change + LR

Piston

Complete

Box

0

0

0

0

Description

337-261-0660

0.00

Survey Additional 0.00

Total

Lab Voice------Ext. 2911

216.00

Totals

Percentage

0

Survey Primary 

Bridge Voice-----Ext. 2913 001-874-327-302-889

Contact Numbers

SAT B

R/V Northern Resolution

VSAT

Scott McBay

C&C Representative Client Representative

AUV Field Project Manager

Client Representative

337-261-0192

Party Chief Voice-----Ext. 2912

C&C TECHNOLOGIES

Office

Office Fax

4 3

0

0

Comments

(337) 237-4242 Then Appropriate Ext.

Failed Dives During 

Mission

0.00%

0

Remain

Recovery Fluid Change

Calculations Based On 140 Km in a 24 Hour Period

Description Total

Planned Dives 

Complete

Transit

Percentages: Survey Operations

Dives 

Aborted

75.00% 0.00%

Failed Dives Prior To 

Cumulative Dives Start of Mission

Dive Summary

272
JOB # 072265 DPR # 5 Mission: 2/11/2007

Lat: N26 21.7806 Lon: W94 31.3067

Arrived at Job Site

Transit to Job Site 2/7/2007 0600

0800

Date:

Commenced Mobilization 0600

Commenced Calibrations 

2/11/2007

AUV Site Survey

Project Name

Survey Area

AUV Site Survey 

Multiple Areas

tsc@cctechnol.com

jef@cctechnol.com

Dave Alleman

Jeff Fortenberry

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

2/7/2007

dja@cctechnol.com

Thomas Chance

2/7/2007

**Note** All Times In UTC (GMT) 

2/7/2007 0800

Time:

Completed Mobilization

Completed Scope of Work

Commenced Rerun's

Commenced Scope of Work 2/7/2007 1000

Completed Calibrations 

0700

Commenced Coring

Completed Coring

Commenced Demobilization

Commenced Additional Work

Completed Additional Work

Completed Rerun's

Arrived alongside

Completed Demobilization

Name

smm@cctechnol.com Scott Melancon

DPR Distribution List:

LSU

pcm@cctechnol.com

C&C Technologies

run070210_1

E-mail Address Company

Vessel R/V Northern Resolution

Midnight Location

Scope of Work

Client

C&C Technologies:

Dr. Harry Roberts

Paige Melancon

Jay Northcutt

Project Dates/Times

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

Client Representative

hrober3@lsu.edu

Client Distibution List

C&C Technologies

C&C Technologies

jsm@cctechnol.com Scott McBay

ces@cctechnol.com Charlie Spann

jgn@cctechnol.com

tdr@cctechnol.com Tom Richards C&C Technologies

273
Today To Date

0 1 2

2 4 2/5/2007

2 4 2/10/2007

2 2 2/10/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

Medical treatment cases 0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 2/7/2007

0 0 33

Comments: 

Swell

Swell

From To Total

Hr:Min Hr:Min Hr:Min Code

0:00 5:00 5:00 RL

5:00 7:00 2:00 ALR

7:00 0:00 17:00 TR

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

0:00

Code Today To Date

MD 0.00 8.00

TR 17.00 32.00

CA 0.00 0.00

AIV 0.00 9.00

RL 5.00 38.50

ALR 2.00 8.50

AW 0.00 0.00

CO 0.00 0.00

SB 0.00 0.00

ED 0.00 0.00

VD 0.00 0.00

RR 0.00 0.00

WOW 0.00 0.00

OTH 0.00 0.00

Totals 24.00 96.00

Recover CSII

Wind Direction

15

Wind Speed knots Seas Meters

2

Description

Survey AC601

Daily Chronology Summary

Transit to GC237

2

1200-1800 1

2/12/2007 SE

E

Date

2/11/2007

1800-2400

15

Forecast Next 48 Hours

0000-0600 N .5

Safety/Orientation inductions

7

3

NE

1

E

4

Weather Downtime

 

Ops Planned Next 3 Days: 

0.00

0.00

Additional work (Clients request)

Equipment Downtime

0.00

Vessel Downtime

Re Runs 0.00

AUV Survey

Last Fire Drill

JSA Review

Shift Change Meetings

Safety

Tailgate Meetings

First aid cases

Stop Cards

Job Kickoff Meeting

Last Safety Committee

9.00

Last Safety Meeting

0.00

120.00

Other 0.00

0.00

Restricted work cases

Last Abandon Ship Drill

Total Personnel On Board

Time Wind Direction Seas Meters

Weather - Last 24 hours

Op(AUV in the Van)

10.50

49.00

2

Cumulative Times

Description Cumulative

0600-1200 E

1

Mobilization/Demob

Wind Speed Knots

Lost time incidents

Last Man Over Board Drill

8.00

Coring 0.00

Standby 

OP(AUV L&R)

Calibrations

Transit 

0.00

Op(AUV running lines) 43.50

274
0

0.00%

Complete Remain

50% 50%

50% 50%

Today To Date Complete Remain Days

27.90 216.00 100.00% 0.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00% 0.00

0 0 0.00

Days

0.00

0.00

0.00

C&C:

Client:

Dive Summary

Percentages: Survey Operations

Dives 

Aborted

100.00% 0.00%

Failed Dives Prior To 

Cumulative Dives Start of Mission

Failed Dives During 

Mission

0.00%

0

Remain

Recovery Fluid Change

Calculations Based On 140 Km in a 24 Hour Period

Description Total

Planned Dives 

Complete

Transit

Comments

(337) 237-4242 Then Appropriate Ext.

337-261-0192

Party Chief Voice-----Ext. 2912

C&C TECHNOLOGIES

Office

Office Fax

4 4

0

0

Scott McBay

C&C Representative Client Representative

AUV Field Project Manager

Client Representative

Bridge Voice-----Ext. 2913 001-874-327-302-889

Contact Numbers

SAT B

R/V Northern Resolution

VSAT

Percentage

0

Survey Primary 

337-261-0660

0.00

Survey Additional 0.00

Total

Lab Voice------Ext. 2911

216.00

Totals

0

Description

Piston

Complete

Box

0

0

0

Anode Changes

Coring

Rerun's Additional 0.00

Battery Change + LR

Description

Data Acquisition

Mob/Demob

Calculations Based on 12 Cores Taken in a 24 Hour Period

Rerun's Primary

275
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES SURVEY LOG (Hydro-station) Page 

No. 1 

JobNo.: 

072265 

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel: R/V Northern Resolution

Remote Vessel: C-Surveyor II TM

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, 

Doppler Speed Log 

Date: (UTC) 

02/07/2007 

Areas: AT Valley 

Blocks: 340 

Units: Meters

Mission:

 run070207_1 

Datum: NAD27

Projection: UTM

Zone: 16N 

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-10 

kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad 

EM 2000 (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading WaterDepth

Fix 

No. Line Name Remarks 

0550 Transit to job site 

0600 Shift Change B.Hollie, M.Gatch 

 WX Winds: S 9 knots Seas: 1.0m 

0754 On location for CTD 070207a 

 lowering HiPAP ram 

0801 CTD in water 

0854 CTD on bottom Y:3060090.36 X:365507.37 WD:2318 

0934 CTD on deck CTD 070207a 

0948 Start predive 070207_1 

1006 Predive complete 

1019.12 Pin Pulled 

1020 AUV in water 

1118 AUV in external guidance 

1130 180 2243 1 301 SOL 

1153 180 2209 16 301 EOL 

1158 360 2209 16 302 SOL 

1200 WX Winds: N 7 knots Seas: 1.0m 

1219 360 2243 1 302 EOL 

1223 180 2244 1 303 SOL 

1246 180 2214 16 303 EOL 

1250 360 2216 16 304 SOL 

1311 360 2242 1 304 EOL 

1315 180 2243 1 305 SOL 

1338 180 2217 16 305 EOL 

1343 360 2216 16 306 SOL 

1403 360 2240 1 306 EOL 

1408 180 2242 1 307 SOL 

1431 180 2218 16 307 EOL 

1435 360 2222 16 308 SOL 

1456 360 2245 1 308 EOL 

1500 180 2258 1 309 SOL 

1523 180 2227 16 309 EOL 

276
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES SURVEY LOG (Hydro-station) Page 

No. 2 

JobNo.: 

072265 

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel: R/V Northern Resolution

Remote Vessel: C-Surveyor II TM

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, 

Doppler Speed Log 

Date: (UTC) 

02/07/2007 

Areas: AT Valley 

Blocks: 340 

Units: Meters

Mission:

 run070207_1 

Datum: NAD27

Projection: UTM

Zone: 16N 

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-10 

kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad 

EM 2000 (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading WaterDepth

Fix 

No. Line Name Remarks 

1527 360 2232 16 310 SOL; GPS went out for a few seconds b/w SP: 

 7-5 

1548 360 2271 1 310 EOL 

1552 180 2279 1 311 SOL 

1615 180 2238 16 311 EOL 

1619 360 2241 16 312 SOL 

1641 360 2286 1 312 EOL 

1645 180 2295 1 313 SOL 

1708 180 2246 16 313 EOL 

1716 270 2251 1 403 SOL 

1739 270 2207 16 403 EOL 

1750 090 2211 16 402 SOL 

1800 WX Winds NE 11 Kts. Seas 4’ 

 Shift Change D. Aucoin C. Gibbens 

1811 090 2254 1 402 EOL 

1822 270 2294 1 401 SOL 

1845 270 2233 16 401 EOL 

1856 270 2256 12 512 SOL 

1913 270 2251 1 512 EOL 

1918 090 2246 1 513 SOL 

1933 090 2248 12 513 EOL 

1938 270 2242 12 514 SOL 

1954 270 2242 1 514 EOL 

2000 090 2238 1 515 SOL 

2015 090 2237 12 515 EOL 

2020 270 2233 12 516 SOL 

2036 270 2233 1 516 EOL 

2041 090 2227 1 517 SOL 

2057 090 2230 12 517 EOL 

2102 270 2225 12 518 SOL 

2118 270 2221 1 518 EOL 

2123 090 2213 1 519 SOL 

277
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES SURVEY LOG (Hydro-station) Page 

No. 3 

JobNo.: 

072265 

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel: R/V Northern Resolution

Remote Vessel: C-Surveyor II TM

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, 

Doppler Speed Log 

Date: (UTC) 

02/07/2007 

Areas: AT Valley 

Blocks: 340 

Units: Meters

Mission:

run070207_1 

Datum: NAD27

Projection: UTM

Zone: 16N 

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-10 

kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad 

EM 2000 (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading WaterDepth

Fix 

No. Line Name Remarks 

2139 090 2223 12 519 EOL 

2144 270 2222 12 520 SOL 

2200 270 2209 1 520 EOL 

2205 090 2207 1 521 SOL 

2221 090 2221 12 521 EOL 

2225 270 2222 12 522 SOL 

2242 270 2204 1 522 EOL 

2249 000 2210 16 501 SOL 

2312 000 2252 1 501 EOL 

2316 180 2254 1 502 SOL 

2337 180 2211 16 502 EOL 

2341 000 2212 16 503 SOL 

0000 New Day 02/08/2007 Lat. 27 39.3102 Lon. 88 24.1975 

 WX Winds NE 10 Kts. Seas 2-3’ 

0003 000 2253 1 503 EOL 

0007 180 2255 1 504 SOL 

0028 180 2213 16 504 EOL 

0031 000 2214 16 505 SOL 

0054 000 2254 1 505 EOL 

0057 180 2256 1 506 SOL Reboot ts workstation 

0119 180 2215 16 506 EOL 

0122 000 2215 16 507 SOL 

0145 000 2255 1 507 EOL 

0149 180 2254 1 508 SOL 

0209 180 2217 16 508 EOL 

0213 000 2218 16 509 SOL 

0235 000 2255 1 509 EOL 

0239 180 2256 1 510 SOL 

0301 180 2219 16 510 EOL 

0304 000 2219 16 511 SOL 

0326 000 2255 1 511 EOL Begin ascent procedures 

0440 AUV on surface 

278
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES SURVEY LOG (Hydro-station) Page 

No. 1 

JobNo.: 

072265 

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel: R/V Northern Resolution

Remote Vessel: C-Surveyor II TM

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, 

Doppler Speed Log 

Date: (UTC) 

02/08/2007 

Areas: Green Canyon 

Blocks: 852 

Units: Meters

Mission:

run070208_1 

Datum: NAD27

Projection: UTM

Zone: 15N 

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-10 

kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad 

EM 2000 (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading WaterDepth

Fix 

No. Line Name Remarks 

 Transit to job location 

1910 Arrive @ CTD location 070208a 

1946 CTD on bottom Y=3003199.01 X=682108.95 WD=1738m 

2016 CTD on deck heading to AUV drop point 

 

2057 Retake CTD 070208b 

2122 CTD on bottom Y=3005440.99 X=682914.15 WD=1791m 

2152 CTD on deck 

2200 Start predive 

2235 Predive complete 

2242 AUV in water 

2336 External Guidance 

2343 180 1700 1 601 SOL 

0000 New Day 02/09/2007 Lat. 27 06.7524 Lon. 91 10.7112 

 WX Winds N 10 Kts. Seas 2-3’ 

0018 180 1650 24 601 EOL 

0023 000 1642 24 602 SOL 

0055 000 1671 1 602 EOL 

0059 180 1642 1 603 SOL 

0134 180 1632 24 603 EOL 

0138 000 1620 24 604 SOL 

0212 000 1609 1 604 EOL 

0216 180 1581 1 605 SOL 

0250 180 1610 24 605 EOL 

0255 000 1592 24 606 SOL 

0328 000 1573 1 606 EOL 

0333 180 1555 1 607 SOL 

0407 180 1576 24 607 EOL 

0411 000 1557 24 608 SOL 

0445 000 1537 1 608 EOL 

0449 180 1526 1 609 SOL 

0523 180 1535 24 609 EOL 

279
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES SURVEY LOG (Hydro-station) Page 

No. 2 

JobNo.: 

072265 

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel: R/V Northern Resolution

Remote Vessel: C-Surveyor II TM

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, 

Doppler Speed Log 

Date: (UTC) 

02/09/2007 

Areas: Green Canyon 

Blocks: 852 

Units: Meters

Mission:

run070208_1 

Datum: NAD27

Projection: UTM

Zone: 15N 

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-10 

kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad 

EM 2000 (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading WaterDepth

Fix 

No. Line Name Remarks 

0527 000 1552 24 610 SOL 

0600 Shift Change B.Hollie, M.Gatch 

 WX Winds: E 7 knots Seas: Calm 

0602 000 1535 1 610 EOL 

0605 180 1526 1 611 SOL 

0639 180 1575 24 611 EOL 

0643 000 1595 24 612 SOL 

0717 000 1546 1 612 EOL 

0721 180 1569 1 613 SOL 

0755 180 1599 24 613 EOL 

0758 000 1625 24 614 SOL 

0832 000 1578 1 614 EOL 

0836 180 1586 1 615 SOL 

0910 180 1618 24 615 EOL 

0914 000 1608 24 616 SOL 

0948 000 1603 1 616 EOL 

0956 270 1600 1 701 SOL 

1018 AUV kicked out of external guidance 

 NAV P restarted 

1022 270 1700 19 701 EOL 

1024 AUV back in external guidance; heading to line 

1035 090 1680 19 702 SOL 

1102 090 1590 1 702 EOL 

1113 270 1606 1 703 SOL 

1140 270 1693 19 703 EOL 

1152 090 1669 19 704 SOL 

1200 WX Winds: E 3 knots Seas: .5m 

1218 090 1602 1 704 EOL; job complete; starting ascent procedures 

1219 AUV stopped external guidance 

1340 AUV in van 

 

280
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES SURVEY LOG (Hydro-station) Page 

No. 1 

JobNo.: 

072265 

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel: R/V Northern Resolution

Remote Vessel: C-Surveyor II TM

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, 

Doppler Speed Log 

Date: (UTC) 

 2-9-07 

Areas: Walker Ridge 

Blocks: 269 

Units: Meters

Mission:

 run070209_1 

Datum: NAD27

Projection: UTM

Zone: 15N 

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-10 

kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad 

EM 2000 (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading WaterDepth

Fix 

No. Line Name Remarks 

1350 transit to job site 

1716 On location; preparing CTD cast 070209a 

1803 CTD on bottom Y=2950608.54 X=630655.54 Z=2034m 

1837 CTD on deck – Start Predive 

1909 Predive Complete 

1915 AUV in water 

2009 External Guidance 

2018 067 1994 22 808 SOL 

2048 067 1944 1 808 EOL 

2052 247 1948 1 807 SOL 

2123 247 1997 22 807 EOL 

2127 067 2018 22 806 SOL 

2157 067 1967 1 806 EOL 

2202 247 1961 1 805 SOL 

2233 247 2018 22 805 EOL 

2237 067 2019 22 804 SOL 

2308 067 1974 1 804 EOL 

2312 247 1975 1 803 SOL 

2343 247 2011 22 803 EOL 

2347 067 2023 22 802 SOL 

0000 New Day 02/10/2007 Lat. 26 41.2369 Lon. 91 40.2744 

 WX Winds N 2 Kts Seas Calm 

0018 067 1977 1 802 EOL 

0022 247 1978 1 801 SOL 

0052 247 2013 22 801 EOL 

0100 157 2001 1 904 SOL 

0114 157 1961 10 904 EOL 

0125 337 1956 10 903 SOL 

0138 337 1964 1 903 EOL 

0150 157 1997 1 902 SOL 

0203 157 1967 10 902 EOL 

0214 337 1937 10 901 SOL 

281
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES SURVEY LOG (Hydro-station) Page 

No. 2 

JobNo.: 

072265 

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel: R/V Northern Resolution

Remote Vessel: C-Surveyor II TM

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, 

Doppler Speed Log 

Date: (UTC) 

02/10/2007 

Areas: Walker Ridge 

Blocks: 269 

Units: Meters

Mission:

run070209_1 

Datum: NAD27

Projection: UTM

Zone: 15N 

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-10 

kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad 

EM 2000 (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading WaterDepth

Fix 

No. Line Name Remarks 

0228 337 1982 1 901 EOL Begin ascent procedures 

0346 AUV on surface 

0358 AUV in Van 

0420 Download data complete transit next location 

 

282
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES SURVEY LOG (Hydro-station) Page 

No. 1 

JobNo.: 

072265 

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel: R/V Northern Resolution

Remote Vessel: C-Surveyor II TM

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, 

Doppler Speed Log 

Date: (UTC) 

 2-10-07 

Areas: Alam Canyon 

Blocks: 601 

Units: Meters

Mission:

run070210_1 

Datum: NAD27

Projection: UTM

Zone: 15N 

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-10 

kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad 

EM 2000 (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading WaterDepth

Fix 

No. Line Name Remarks 

0420 Transit to job site 

1748 On location for CTD 070210a; lowering HiPAP 

 & getting CTD ready for deployment 

1837 CTD on bottom Y=347560.87 X=347560.87 WD=2359m 

1920 CTD on deck Begin pre-dive 

1950 Pre-dive complete 

1955 AUV in water 

2057 Activate external guidance 

2107 010 2327 29 101 SOL 

2149 010 2327 1 101 EOL 

2153 190 2337 1 102 SOL 

2233 190 2313 29 102 EOL 

2237 010 2320 29 103 SOL 

2319 010 2342 1 103 EOL 

2323 190 2342 1 104 SOL 

0000 New Day 02/11/2007 Lat. 26 21.7806 Lon. 94 31.3067 

 WX Winds NE 22 Kts. Seas 2m 

0003 190 2310 29 104 EOL 

0007 010 2298 28 105 SOL 

0048 010 2350 1 105 EOL 

0053 190 2356 1 106 SOL 

0131 190 2269 28 106 EOL 

0135 010 2282 28 107 SOL 

0216 010 2362 1 107 EOL 

0220 190 2361 1 108 SOL 

0258 190 2283 28 108 EOL 

0305 280 2263 11 205 SOL 

0320 280 2327 1 205 EOL 

0331 100 2332 1 204 SOL 

0347 100 2255 11 204 EOL 

0358 280 2308 11 203 SOL 

0413 280 2291 1 203 EOL 

283
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES SURVEY LOG (Hydro-station) Page 

No. 2 

JobNo.: 

072265 

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel: R/V Northern Resolution

Remote Vessel: C-Surveyor II TM

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, 

Doppler Speed Log 

Date: (UTC) 

02/11/2007 

Areas: Alam Canyon 

Blocks: 601 

Units: Meters

Mission:

run070210_1 

Datum: NAD27

Projection: UTM

Zone: 15N 

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-10 

kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad 

EM 2000 (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading WaterDepth

Fix 

No. Line Name Remarks 

0424 100 2309 1 202 SOL 

0439 100 2351 11 202 EOL 

0451 280 2362 11 201 SOL 

0505 280 2333 1 201 EOL Begin ascent procedures 

0600 Shift Change B.Hollie, M.Gatch 

 WX Winds: N-NE 8-10 knots Seas: 2.0m 

0609 AUV emergency ascent; critical height 

0624 AUV on surface 

0643 AUV in van; job complete 

 

284
730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 1 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: 

2/7/2007 

Area: AT Valley Block: 340 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 16N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

09:48 Start Predive 10:06 Predive Complete 10:19 Pin Pulled 10:20 Aquatic Fish in Water 10:20 AUV in Water 10:28 AUV at 300 Pitch Roll -0.1 10:34 AUV at 600 Pitch 3.4 Roll -0.1 10:41 AUV at 900 Pitch -2.8 Roll -0.1 10:49 AUV at 1200 Pitch -2.3 Roll -0.2 10:56 AUV at 1500 Pitch 3.8 Roll -0.1 11:03 AUV at 1800 Pitch 3.6 Roll 0.1 11:10 AUV at 2100 Pitch 3.3 Roll -0.2 11:13 AUV at 2180 Pitch 3.3 Roll -0.2 11:18 AUV on External Guidance 11:30 180 2243 1 301 SOL 11:53 180 2209 16 301 EOL 11:58 360 2209 16 302 SOL 12:19 360 2243 1 302 EOL 12:23 180 2244 1 303 SOL 12:46 180 2214 16 303 EOL 12:50 360 2216 16 304 SOL 

285
730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 2 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: 

2/7/2007 

Area: AT Valley Block: 340 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 16N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

13:11 360 2242 1 304 EOL 13:15 180 2243 1 305 SOL 13:38 180 2217 16 305 EOL 13:43 360 2216 16 306 SOL 14:03 360 2240 1 306 EOL 14:08 180 2242 1 307 SOL 14:31 180 2218 16 307 EOL 14:35 360 2222 16 308 SOL 14:56 360 2245 1 308 EOL 15:00 180 2258 1 309 SOL 15:23 180 2227 16 309 EOL 15:27 360 2232 16 310 SOL 15:48 360 2271 1 310 EOL 15:52 180 2279 1 311 SOL 16:15 180 2238 16 311 EOL 16:19 360 2241 16 312 SOL 16:41 360 2286 1 312 EOL 16:45 180 2295 1 313 SOL 17:08 180 2246 16 313 EOL 17:16 270 2251 1 403 SOL 17:39 270 2207 16 403 EOL 

286
730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 3 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: 

2/7/2007 

Area: AT Valley Block: 340 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 16N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

1750 090 2211 16 402 SOL 1800 Shif Change D. Aucoin C. Gibbens 1811 090 2254 1 402 EOL 1822 270 2294 1 401 SOL 1845 270 2233 16 401 EOL 1856 270 2256 12 512 SOL 1913 270 2251 1 512 EOL 1918 090 2246 1 513 SOL 1933 090 2248 12 513 EOL 1938 270 2242 12 514 SOL 1954 270 2242 1 514 EOL 2000 090 2238 1 515 SOL 2015 090 2237 12 515 EOL 2020 270 2233 12 516 SOL 2036 270 2233 1 516 EOL 2041 090 2227 1 517 SOL 2057 090 2230 12 517 EOL 2102 270 2225 12 518 SOL 2118 270 2221 1 518 EOL 2123 090 2213 1 519 SOL 

287
730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 4 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: Area: AT Valley 

Block: 340 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 16N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

2139 090 2223 12 519 EOL 2144 270 2222 12 520 SOL 2200 270 2209 1 520 EOL 2205 090 2207 1 521 SOL 2221 090 2221 12 521 EOL 2225 270 2222 12 522 SOL 2242 270 2205 1 522 EOL 2249 000 2210 16 501 SOL 2312 000 2252 1 501 EOL 2316 180 2254 1 502 SOL 2337 180 2211 16 502 EOL 2341 000 2212 16 503 SOL 0003 000 2253 1 503 EOL 0007 180 2255 1 504 SOL 0028 180 2213 16 504 EOL 0031 000 2214 16 505 SOL 0054 000 2257 1 505 EOL 0057 180 2256 1 506 SOL 0119 180 2215 16 506 EOL 0122 000 2215 16 507 SOL 0144 000 2255 1 507 EOL 

288
730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 1 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: HYDRO Gulf of Mexico, LLC Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: 

2 / 8 / 07 

Area: Green Canyon 

Block: 852 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 15N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

2215 Start Predive 2235 Predive Complete 2241 Pin Pulled 2243 AUV In Water 2247 Aquatic Fish In Water 2252 AUV At 300 Pitch 3.1 Roll .2 2259 AUV At 600 Pitch 3.6 Roll 0.2 2305 AUV At 900 Pitch 3.3 Roll 0.3 2312 AUV At 1200 Pitch 4.0 Roll 0.2 2316 AUV At 1400 Pitch 3.6 Roll 0.1 2319 AUV At 1500 Pitch 4.4 Roll 0.1 2322 AUV At 1600 Pitch 2.8 Roll 0.0 2328 AUV At 1700 Pitch 2.5 Roll 0.1 2336 AUV On External Guidance 2343 180 1700 1 601 SOL 0018 180 1650 24 601 EOL 0023 000 1642 24 602 SOL 0055 000 1671 1 602 EOL 0059 180 1642 1 603 SOL 0134 180 1632 24 603 EOL 0138 000 1620 24 604 SOL 

289
730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 2 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: HYDRO Gulf of Mexico, LLC Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: 

2/8/2007 

Area: Green Canyon 

Block: 852 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 15N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

0212 000 1609 1 604 EOL 0216 180 1581 1 605 SOL 0250 180 1610 24 605 EOL 0255 000 1592 24 606 SOL 0328 000 1573 1 606 EOL 0333 180 1555 1 607 SOL 0407 180 1576 24 607 EOL 0411 000 1557 24 608 SOL 0445 000 1537 1 608 EOL 0449 180 1526 1 609 SOL 0523 180 1535 24 609 EOL 0527 000 1552 24 610 SOL 0602 000 1535 1 610 EOL 0605 180 1526 1 611 SOL 0639 180 1575 24 611 EOL 0643 000 1595 24 612 SOL 0717 000 1546 1 612 EOL 0721 180 1569 1 613 SOL 0755 180 1599 24 613 EOL 0758 000 1625 24 614 SOL 0832 000 1578 1 614 EOL 

290
730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 3 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: HYDRO Gulf of Mexico, LLC Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: 

2/8/07 

Area: Green Canyon 

Block: 852 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 15N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

0836 180 1586 1 615 SOL 0910 180 1618 24 615 EOL 0914 000 1608 24 616 SOL 0948 000 1603 1 616 EOL 0956 270 1600 1 701 SOL 1022 270 1700 19 701 EOL 1035 090 1680 19 702 SOL 1102 090 1590 1 702 EOL 1113 270 1606 1 703 SOL 1140 270 1693 19 703 EOL 

 1152 090 1669 19 704 SOL 

1218 090 1602 1 704 EOL 1219 Stop External Guidance 1225 Set depth @ 1530 1229 Set depth @ 1500 1238 Set depth @ 1200 1248 Set depth @ 900 1251 Set depth @ 600 1303 AUV Enter Line 24 1325 AUV on Surface 1338 AUV on Deck 

291
730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 1 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: 

2/9/2007 

Area: Walker Ridge 

Block: 269 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 15N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

1900 Start Predive 1913 Predive Complete 1914 Pin Pulled 1915 AUV In Water 1919 Aquatic Fish In Water 1925 AUV @ 300 Pitch 3.3 Roll 0.3 1930 AUV @ 600 Pitch 4.0 Roll 0.3 1937 AUV @ 900 Pitch 3.4 Roll 0.3 1944 AUV @ 1200 Pitch 3.5 Roll 0.1 1951 AUV @ 1500 Pitch 1.9 Roll 0.1 2000 AUV @ 1800 Pitch 3.3 Roll 0.0 2000 AUV @ 1900 Pitch 3.4 Roll 0.1 2006 AUV @ 1965 Pitch 3.3 Roll 0.0 2010 AUV On External Guidance 2018 067 1994 22 808 SOL 2048 067 1944 1 808 EOL 2052 247 1948 1 807 SOL 2123 247 1997 22 807 EOL 2127 067 2016 22 806 SOL 2157 067 1967 1 806 EOL 2202 247 1961 1 805 SOL 

292
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C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 2 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: 

2/9/2007 

Area: Walker Ridge 

Block: 269 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 15N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

2233 247 2018 22 805 EOL 2237 067 2019 22 804 SOL 2308 067 1974 1 804 EOL 2312 247 1975 1 803 SOL 2343 247 2011 22 803 EOL 2347 067 2023 22 802 SOL 0018 067 1977 1 802 EOL 0022 247 1978 1 801 SOL 0052 247 2013 22 801 EOL 0100 157 2001 1 904 SOL 0114 157 1961 10 904 EOL 0125 337 1956 10 903 SOL 0138 337 1964 1 903 EOL 0150 157 1997 1 902 SOL 0203 157 1967 10 902 EOL 0214 337 1937 10 901 SOL 0228 337 1982 1 901 EOL 0230 Starting Ascent Procedures, Job Complete 0232 Stop External Guidance 0346 AUV on surface 0358 Pin In 

293
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C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 1 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: Area: Alam Canyon 

Block: 601 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 15N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

1935 Start Predive 1945 Predive Complete 1954 Pin Pulled 1955 AUV In Water 1958 Aquatic Fish In Water 2003 AUV @ 300 Pitch 3.6 Roll -0.3 2010 AUV @ 600 Pitch 3.7 Roll -0.5 2016 AUV @ 900 Pitch 3.3 Roll -0.4 2023 AUV @ 1200 Pitch 3.7 Roll -0.2 2029 AUV @ 1500 Pitch 3.1 Roll -0.2 2036 AUV @ 1800 Pitch 3.7 Roll -0.2 2042 AUV @ 2100 Pitch 3.8 Roll 0.0 2046 AUV @ 2200 Pitch 3.0 Roll -0.2 2050 AUV @ 2300 Pitch 1.9 Roll 1.8 2053 AUV @ 2360 Pitch 3.0 Roll -0.1 2057 AUV On External Guidance 2107 010 2327 29 101 SOL 2149 010 2327 1 101 EOL 2153 190 2337 1 102 SOL 2233 190 2323 29 102 EOL 2237 010 2320 29 103 SOL 

294
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C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 2 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: Area: Alam Canyon 

Block: 601 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 15N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

2319 010 2342 1 103 EOL 2323 190 2342 1 104 SOL 0003 190 2310 29 104 EOL 0007 010 2298 28 105 SOL 0048 010 2350 1 105 EOL 0053 190 2356 1 106 SOL 0131 190 2269 28 106 EOL 0135 010 2283 28 107 SOL 0216 010 2362 1 107 EOL 0220 190 2361 1 108 SOL 0258 190 2283 28 108 EOL 0305 280 2263 11 205 SOL 0320 280 2327 1 205 EOL 0331 100 2332 1 204 SOL 0347 100 2255 11 204 EOL 0358 280 2308 11 203 SOL 0413 280 2291 1 203 EOL 0424 100 2309 1 202 SOL 0439 100 2351 11 202 EOL 0451 280 2362 11 201 SOL 0505 280 2333 1 201 EOL 

295
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C & C TECHNOLOGIES AUV COS SURVEY LOG 

Page No. 3 

Job No: 072265

Mission Name:

Client: Louisiana State University Vessel:

R/V Northern Resolution

Survey Equipment: DGPS, Inertial Navigation, HiPAP, Doppler Speed Log 

Date: Area: Alam Canyon 

Block: 601 

Survey Units: 

Meters

Datum: WGS84 Projection: UTMZone: 15N

Geophysical Equipment: Edgetech 216 FSSB Profiler (2-6 kHz), Edgetech Dual Frequency SSS (120 & 410 kHz), Simrad EM 2000 Multibeam (200 kHz) 

Time (UTC) 

(-6 to Local) Heading Water Depth Fix No. Line Name Remarks 

0506 Start Ascent Procedures 0643 AUV in van 0648 Downloading data 0653 Data download complete 

296
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

APPENDIX C 

WATER COLUMN SOUND VELOCITY PROFILES

297
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Coastal Studies Institute

Louisiana State University

Block 340, Atwater Valley Area

Sound Velocity Profile

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

1480 1485 1490 1495 1500 1505 1510 1515 1520 1525 1530

Speed of Sound (m/s)

Water Depth (m)

Measured Speed of Sound - Water Column

CTD Harmonic Speed of Sound - Water Column

Water Depth: 2340m

Latitude: 27.660069 N 

Longitude: -88.363499 W

Blocks: 340

February 7, 2007

298
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Coastal Studies Institute

Louisiana State University

Block 852, Green Canyon Area

Sound Velocity Profile

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

1800

1480 1490 1500 1510 1520 1530 1540

Speed of Sound (m/s)

Water Depth (m)

Measured Speed of Sound - Water Column

CTD Harmonic Speed of Sound - Water Column

Water Depth: 1717 m

Latitude: 27.141114 N 

Longitude: -91.162490 W

Block: 852, Green Canyon Area

February 8, 2007

299
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Coastal Studies Institute

Louisiana State University

Block 269, Walker Ridge Area

Sound Velocity Profile

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

1800

2000

1480 1485 1490 1495 1500 1505 1510 1515 1520 1525 1530

Speed of Sound (m/s)

Water Depth (m)

Measured Speed of Sound - Water Column

Harmonic Speed of Sound - Water Column

CTD 

Water Depth: 2029 m

Latitude: 26.672246 N 

Longitude: -91.687049 W

Block: 269

February 9, 2007

300
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Coastal Studies Institute

Louisiana State University

Block 601, Alaminos Canyon Area

Sound Velocity Profile

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1480 1485 1490 1495 1500 1505 1510 1515 1520 1525 1530

Speed of Sound (m/s)

Water Depth (m)

Measured Speed of Sound - Water Column

Harmonic Speed of Sound - Water Column

CTD

Water Depth: 2352 m

Latitude: 26.361331 N 

Longitude: 0-94.527918 W

Block 601

February 10, 2007

301
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

APPENDIX D 

TIDE CURVES 

303
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Goddard Global Ocean Tide Model 

ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT STUDY

BLOCK 852, GREEN CANYON AREA

-0.1

-0.05

0

0.05

0.1

0.15

2/7/07 7:12

PM

2/8/07 12:00

AM

2/8/07 4:48

AM

2/8/07 9:36

AM

2/8/07 2:24

PM

2/8/07 7:12

PM

2/9/07 12:00

AM

2/9/07 4:48

AM

Time

MSL Adjustment (cm)

Goddard Global Ocean Tide Model 

ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT STUDY

BLOCK 340, ATWATER VALLEY AREA

-0.06

-0.04

-0.02

0

0.02

0.04

0.06

0.08

2/6/07 7:12

PM

2/7/07 12:00

AM

2/7/07 4:48

AM

2/7/07 9:36

AM

2/7/07 2:24

PM

2/7/07 7:12

PM

2/8/07 12:00

AM

2/8/07 4:48

AM

Time

MSL Adjustment (cm)

304
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Goddard Global Ocean Tide Model 

ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT STUDY

BLOCK 269, WALKER RIDGE AREA

-0.2

-0.15

-0.1

-0.05

0

0.05

0.1

0.15

0.2

2/8/07 7:12

PM

2/9/07 12:00

AM

2/9/07 4:48

AM

2/9/07 9:36

AM

2/9/07 2:24

PM

2/9/07 7:12

PM

2/10/07

12:00 AM

2/10/07 4:48

AM

Time

MSL Adjustment (cm)

Goddard Global Ocean Tide Model 

ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT STUDY

BLOCK 601, ALAMINOS CANYON AREA

-0.25

-0.2

-0.15

-0.1

-0.05

0

0.05

0.1

0.15

0.2

0.25

2/9/07 7:12

PM

2/10/07

12:00 AM

2/10/07 4:48

AM

2/10/07 9:36

AM

2/10/07 2:24

PM

2/10/07 7:12

PM

2/11/07

12:00 AM

2/11/07 4:48

AM

Time

MSL Adjustment (cm)

305
 

730 EAST KALISTE SALOOM ROAD, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70508

Goddard Global Ocean Tide Model 

ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT STUDY

BLOCK 601, ALAMINOS CANYON AREA

-0.3

-0.2

-0.1

0

0.1

0.2

0.3

2/10/07 7:12

PM

2/11/07

12:00 AM

2/11/07 4:48

AM

2/11/07 9:36

AM

2/11/07 2:24

PM

2/11/07 7:12

PM

2/12/07

12:00 AM

2/12/07 4:48

AM

Time

MSL Adjustment (cm)

306
APPENDIX 2

 

 AUV MAPS 

307
AC601

309
310
311
312
313
314
AT340

315
316
317
318
319
320
GC852

321
322
323
324
325
326
 

WR269

327
328
329
330
331
332
The Department of the Interior Mission

As the Nation's principal conservation agency, the Department of the Interior has responsibility 

for most of our nationally owned public lands and natural resources. This includes fostering 

sound use of our land and water resources; protecting our fish, wildlife, and biological diversity; 

preserving the environmental and cultural values of our national parks and historical places; 

and providing for the enjoyment of life through outdoor recreation. The Department assesses 

our energy and mineral resources and works to ensure that their development is in the best 

interests of all our people by encouraging stewardship and citizen participation in their care. 

The Department also has a major responsibility for American Indian reservation communities 

and for people who live in island territories under U.S. administration. 

The Minerals Management Service Mission 

As a bureau of the Department of the Interior, the Minerals Management Service's (MMS) 

primary responsibilities are to manage the mineral resources located on the Nation's Outer 

Continental Shelf (OCS), collect revenue from the Federal OCS and onshore Federal and Indian 

lands, and distribute those revenues. 

Moreover, in working to meet its responsibilities, the Offshore Minerals Management Program 

administers the OCS competitive leasing program and oversees the safe and environmentally 

sound exploration and production of our Nation's offshore natural gas, oil and other mineral 

resources. The MMS Minerals Revenue Management meets its responsibilities by ensuring the 

efficient, timely and accurate collection and disbursement of revenue from mineral leasing and 

production due to Indian tribes and allottees, States and the U.S. Treasury. 

The MMS strives to fulfill its responsibilities through the general guiding principles of: (1) being 

responsive to the public's concerns and interests by maintaining a dialogue with all potentially 

affected parties and (2) carrying out its programs with an emphasis on working to enhance the 

quality of life for all Americans by lending MMS assistance and expertise to economic 

development and environmental protection.