Fish abundance, seagrass and macro-algae mapping
Our Services
Hydrobiology is, to our knowledge, the sole consultancy supplying Hydroacoustic sampling services in Australia. This highly specialised technology provides a unique method of measuring and mapping fish density, biomass and distribution in both freshwater and marine ecosystems. Using sonar based analysis, the system scientifically, non-destructively and reproducibly measures fish resources. This is often a key concern of client projects where there is existing fishing in their project impact area and/or potential to impact fish from project activities.
Skills and Techniques
This capability focus sheet provides specific information on the Hydroacoustic methods and applications utilised by Hydrobiology.
Hydroacoustic Method
Hydroacoustics is a well-established science that has become standard for monitoring fisheries resources, for example, in most European countries and Australia. Hydrobiology has used Hydroacoustic sampling methods on a number of projects since the 1980’s and is the leader in Australia in terms of method development and implementation for Hydroacoustic sampling.
In essence, the system is a highly accurate echosounder (Biosonics DT-X), with the ability to measure fish biomass, distribution, movements, size ranges and habitat characteristics, such as the dimensions of submerged macrophyte habitat and the distribution and extent of various benthic habitats. The measurements can be mapped as data are geo-referenced. The system used by Hydrobiology is designed for ‘shallow’ operation and can be used to a maximum depth of about 40 m. This system is best suited for the fish monitoring techniques used by Hydrobiology and the typical types of habitats we work in.
The method measures and maps:
- Fish biomass (length/size), location and depth;
- Bottom type (if calibrated using additional sediment grabs/video);
- Macrophyte (underwater plants/seagrass) cover;
- Can be used as a monitoring tool for changes over time and to locate high / low biomass areas for project design and impact mitigation.
Advantages of Hydroacoustic Sampling
Non-destructive – Favoured by locals where regular monitoring occurs or there are cultural sensitivites about sampling and killing fish for research. Also favoured where there are rare or endangered species;
Safer – Can be operated off large and small boats (even canoes) so does not require personnel to enter the water. Avoids dangers of entanglement and dangerous fauna (e.g. sharks and crocodiles);
Efficient – Can Cover large areas in a relatively short period of time.
Unique – Gathers information not available through traditional capture and video/visual methods. Can resolve behaviour and sample in depths that other methods cannot;
Robust – Provides quantitative and non-selective data (i.e. does not depend on fish being selectively caught by specific fishing methods as is traditional).
