Contributors From our readers Summary of Investigations Scott Gardner, from Nuytco, prepares Peter Auster for a dive in the DeepWorker. Ecology of Fishes on Deep Boulder Reefs Peter Auster and James Lindholm, both from the National Undersea Research Center at the University of Connecticut, conducted a study of the habitat use of fishes on deep boulder reefs using the DeepWorker submersibles. Five daytime dives were completed to assess species composition on different parts of reefs, which were categorized by habitat complexity. Future studies are planned to determine how light effects the distribution and behavior of fishes.
Light levels vary seasonally, by depth, and by photoperiod.
Dives both day and night will allow a first order assessment of how reef structures are used for shelter as well as foraging areas. Bioacoustic Research During the Sustainable Seas Expedition in the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a contingent of students and teachers A remotely operated vehicle used in habitat surveys is launched. Ambient Noise Assessment . Noise measurements were taken during the period July 9 through July 15, 1999. Although the analysis of this year's noise levels is still in progress, the noise levels for 1999 are thus far consistent with those taken in 1997 and 1998.