Fisheries-dependent monitoring does not provide information on all size classes. A diver makes a visual count, later transferring the count to an identification chart that is then optically scanned at the University of Miami. The reporting categories were prepared by nonscientists in nonscientific terms so that almost anyone can use the form. For example, divers are asked to record how many fish they see by color, or shape, or that have sloping heads or fins. The data sheets contain identifications of fish that cannot be landed, such as jewfish and the nassau grouper that are under protection from fishing.
Volunteers look for the largest number they can count, the biggest, rarest, brightest, etc.
Of course, the data must be filtered. The fisheries dependent data must also be filtered and it, too, is voluntary. Sometimes the fishers will report what they think will be useful to them commercially. A random point is chosen and a species count is taken of a 7.5 meter radius from the bottom to the surface for five minutes. The five minute limit is long enough to observe most fish and brief enough to exclude mobile fish species who are generally outside the area.