dateOfCoverage description fileType labelTitleDescription mediaFormat videoRunningTime activits::actType activits::bndgLfCoord activits::bndgLoCoord activits::bndgRtCoord activits::bndgUpCoord activits::pkDiveID divertng::diveTrackDescription cruises::title projects::name projects::zcProjPINameOrg particps::nmFull particps::organization 9/23/2003 Sonsub Dive 30 tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 30 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.387683 29.100395 -88.3845 29.10252 Sonsub Dive 30 "Dive started at 0827, descended to 1142 ft. on a flat muddy bottom. There was a lot of marine snow. Ocassionally soft corals, fish, single anemones and large clusters of anemones were seen. As the transects continued upslope, the bottom changed to small carbonate boulders but with no solide carbonate banks. Originally, the transects were 200 meters long with a 20 meter separation. Anemone clusters and small glass sponges were continually seen. At 1100, the transects were moved east 100 meters. The substrate changed to larger rocks with less mud. Glass sponges and anemone gardens were still the primary organism found with fish and soft coral seen periodically. Large carbonate boulders dominated as we continued upslope at 1300, which accounted for 50% of the total cover." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/23/2003 Sonsub Dive 30 tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 30-1 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.387683 29.100395 -88.3845 29.10252 Sonsub Dive 30 "Dive started at 0827, descended to 1142 ft. on a flat muddy bottom. There was a lot of marine snow. Ocassionally soft corals, fish, single anemones and large clusters of anemones were seen. As the transects continued upslope, the bottom changed to small carbonate boulders but with no solide carbonate banks. Originally, the transects were 200 meters long with a 20 meter separation. Anemone clusters and small glass sponges were continually seen. At 1100, the transects were moved east 100 meters. The substrate changed to larger rocks with less mud. Glass sponges and anemone gardens were still the primary organism found with fish and soft coral seen periodically. Large carbonate boulders dominated as we continued upslope at 1300, which accounted for 50% of the total cover." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/23/2003 Sonsub Dive 30-1 tape 3 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 30-1 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.387683 29.100395 -88.3845 29.10252 Sonsub Dive 30 "Dive started at 0827, descended to 1142 ft. on a flat muddy bottom. There was a lot of marine snow. Ocassionally soft corals, fish, single anemones and large clusters of anemones were seen. As the transects continued upslope, the bottom changed to small carbonate boulders but with no solide carbonate banks. Originally, the transects were 200 meters long with a 20 meter separation. Anemone clusters and small glass sponges were continually seen. At 1100, the transects were moved east 100 meters. The substrate changed to larger rocks with less mud. Glass sponges and anemone gardens were still the primary organism found with fish and soft coral seen periodically. Large carbonate boulders dominated as we continued upslope at 1300, which accounted for 50% of the total cover." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/23/2003 Sonsub Dive 30-1 tape 4 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 30-1 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.387683 29.100395 -88.3845 29.10252 Sonsub Dive 30 "Dive started at 0827, descended to 1142 ft. on a flat muddy bottom. There was a lot of marine snow. Ocassionally soft corals, fish, single anemones and large clusters of anemones were seen. As the transects continued upslope, the bottom changed to small carbonate boulders but with no solide carbonate banks. Originally, the transects were 200 meters long with a 20 meter separation. Anemone clusters and small glass sponges were continually seen. At 1100, the transects were moved east 100 meters. The substrate changed to larger rocks with less mud. Glass sponges and anemone gardens were still the primary organism found with fish and soft coral seen periodically. Large carbonate boulders dominated as we continued upslope at 1300, which accounted for 50% of the total cover." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/23/2003 Sonsub Dive 31 tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 31 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.382267 29.104917 -88.379383 29.10504 Sonsub Dive 31 "The ROV was launched at 1445 and reached the ocean floor at a depth of 1208 ft. The bottom substrate was 100% mud. A few fish, anemones, starfish and sea whips were seen as the ROV began running East-West transects and progressing up a topographic high." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/23/2003 Sonsub Dive 31 tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 31 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.382267 29.104917 -88.379383 29.10504 Sonsub Dive 31 "The ROV was launched at 1445 and reached the ocean floor at a depth of 1208 ft. The bottom substrate was 100% mud. A few fish, anemones, starfish and sea whips were seen as the ROV began running East-West transects and progressing up a topographic high." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/23/2003 Sonsub Dive 32 Tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 32 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.0195 29.160907 -88.017 29.162824 Sonsub Dive 32 "Dive started at 2027 and Lophelia pertusa coral colonies were seen immediately. Ground cover was mostly mud with a lot of shell near the corals. Small isolated colonies were seen as the ROV moved North, more colonies were seen with dead coral at the cen" Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/23/2003 Sonsub Dive 32 Tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 32 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.0195 29.160907 -88.017 29.162824 Sonsub Dive 32 "Dive started at 2027 and Lophelia pertusa coral colonies were seen immediately. Ground cover was mostly mud with a lot of shell near the corals. Small isolated colonies were seen as the ROV moved North, more colonies were seen with dead coral at the cen" Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/23/2003 Sonsub Dive 32 Tape 3 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 32 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.0195 29.160907 -88.017 29.162824 Sonsub Dive 32 "Dive started at 2027 and Lophelia pertusa coral colonies were seen immediately. Ground cover was mostly mud with a lot of shell near the corals. Small isolated colonies were seen as the ROV moved North, more colonies were seen with dead coral at the cen" Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/24/2003 Sonsub Dive 33 Tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 33 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.016012 29.16339 -88.017905 29.16315 Sonsub Dive 33 "ROV launched at 0130, arrived on the bottom at 0200. The substrate was composed of dead clam shells and sediment. There was a large amount of marine snow observed. The top of the mound consisted of large Lophelia colonies mostly not coaleesced. The first grid transect was 200 meters long and 50 meters apart covering an area with high coral diversity. Dense thickets were not found, but large colonies interspersed with patches of tubeworms and mud/shell areas were predominant features. Sediment and water samples were collected. Video footage and video still images were taken." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/24/2003 Sonsub Dive 34 tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 34 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -88.008333 29.172258 -88.0091 29.172153 Sonsub Dive 34 Dive launched at 0450 and arrived on the bottom at 0515 at 1587 ft. The substrate was mostly mud. 200 meter x 50 meter transects were conducted over the NorthEast section of VK826 where side scan sonographs indicated good coral habitat. Few anemones were seen and a few small boulders were observed. The transects were offset 150 meters to the East and the survey continued until the end wiht no change in benthos. Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/25/2003 Sonsub Dive 36 Tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 36 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -91.826743 27.597428 -91.827423 27.597258 Sonsub Dive 36 "ROV landed in an area scattered with large carbonate outcrops with sponges, gorgonians and a few Lophelia colonies. A current meter was deployed between two large boulders with sponges and gorgonians surrounding it. Topography at the second waypoint was initially variable but was most muddy toward the end. The ROV transited back to site 1 and collected a water sample, a sediment sample, Lophelia, sponges, and gorgonians. Transet between site 1 and 2 was not very good. It was limited by topography and haivng to keep moving the TMS (teather management system) and the ship." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/25/2003 Sonsub Dive 36 Tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 36 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -91.826743 27.597428 -91.827423 27.597258 Sonsub Dive 36 "ROV landed in an area scattered with large carbonate outcrops with sponges, gorgonians and a few Lophelia colonies. A current meter was deployed between two large boulders with sponges and gorgonians surrounding it. Topography at the second waypoint was initially variable but was most muddy toward the end. The ROV transited back to site 1 and collected a water sample, a sediment sample, Lophelia, sponges, and gorgonians. Transet between site 1 and 2 was not very good. It was limited by topography and haivng to keep moving the TMS (teather management system) and the ship." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/25/2003 Sonsub Dive 36 Tape 3 GOM Deep Sea Habitat Sonsub 36 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -91.826743 27.597428 -91.827423 27.597258 Sonsub Dive 36 "ROV landed in an area scattered with large carbonate outcrops with sponges, gorgonians and a few Lophelia colonies. A current meter was deployed between two large boulders with sponges and gorgonians surrounding it. Topography at the second waypoint was initially variable but was most muddy toward the end. The ROV transited back to site 1 and collected a water sample, a sediment sample, Lophelia, sponges, and gorgonians. Transet between site 1 and 2 was not very good. It was limited by topography and haivng to keep moving the TMS (teather management system) and the ship." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats The occurrence and ecology of deep-water corals and associated communities in the GoM "Schroeder, William, University of Alabama" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/25/2003 Sonsub Dive 37 Tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 37 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -91.992425 28.078972 -92 28.082 Sonsub Dive 37 "Dive began in the vicinity of the northern of the two prominent basalt spires, which rise from the surrounding seafloor at about 80 meters depth, to within 55 meters of the surface. The ROV completely circled this spire near the base, and made several tr" Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/25/2003 Sonsub Dive 37 Tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 37 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -91.992425 28.078972 -92 28.082 Sonsub Dive 37 "Dive began in the vicinity of the northern of the two prominent basalt spires, which rise from the surrounding seafloor at about 80 meters depth, to within 55 meters of the surface. The ROV completely circled this spire near the base, and made several tr" Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/25/2003 Sonsub Dive 37 Tape 3 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 37 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -91.992425 28.078972 -92 28.082 Sonsub Dive 37 "Dive began in the vicinity of the northern of the two prominent basalt spires, which rise from the surrounding seafloor at about 80 meters depth, to within 55 meters of the surface. The ROV completely circled this spire near the base, and made several tr" Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/25/2003 Sonsub Dive 37 Tape 4 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 37 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -91.992425 28.078972 -92 28.082 Sonsub Dive 37 "Dive began in the vicinity of the northern of the two prominent basalt spires, which rise from the surrounding seafloor at about 80 meters depth, to within 55 meters of the surface. The ROV completely circled this spire near the base, and made several tr" Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/27/2003 Sonsub Dive 39 Tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 39 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.859308 27.866527 -93.8637 27.869118 Sonsub Dive 39 "The dive started on silty substrate with scattered Madracis outcroppings moved into highly eroded drowned reef habitats - cirripahtes, crinoids abundant. Moved up slope to algae nodule habitat (rhodoliths) providing habitat for red and green leafy algae. Sponges interspersed in algal nodule habitat. Worked across mound feature dominated by algal nodules. Thirty-nine digital still photographs taken, 4 Mini-Dv tapes recorded, and 26 samples collected." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/27/2003 Sonsub Dive 39 Tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 39 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.859308 27.866527 -93.8637 27.869118 Sonsub Dive 39 "The dive started on silty substrate with scattered Madracis outcroppings moved into highly eroded drowned reef habitats - cirripahtes, crinoids abundant. Moved up slope to algae nodule habitat (rhodoliths) providing habitat for red and green leafy algae. Sponges interspersed in algal nodule habitat. Worked across mound feature dominated by algal nodules. Thirty-nine digital still photographs taken, 4 Mini-Dv tapes recorded, and 26 samples collected." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/27/2003 Sonsub Dive 39 Tape 3 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 39 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.859308 27.866527 -93.8637 27.869118 Sonsub Dive 39 "The dive started on silty substrate with scattered Madracis outcroppings moved into highly eroded drowned reef habitats - cirripahtes, crinoids abundant. Moved up slope to algae nodule habitat (rhodoliths) providing habitat for red and green leafy algae. Sponges interspersed in algal nodule habitat. Worked across mound feature dominated by algal nodules. Thirty-nine digital still photographs taken, 4 Mini-Dv tapes recorded, and 26 samples collected." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/27/2003 Sonsub Dive 39 Tape 4 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 39 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.859308 27.866527 -93.8637 27.869118 Sonsub Dive 39 "The dive started on silty substrate with scattered Madracis outcroppings moved into highly eroded drowned reef habitats - cirripahtes, crinoids abundant. Moved up slope to algae nodule habitat (rhodoliths) providing habitat for red and green leafy algae. Sponges interspersed in algal nodule habitat. Worked across mound feature dominated by algal nodules. Thirty-nine digital still photographs taken, 4 Mini-Dv tapes recorded, and 26 samples collected." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/28/2003 Sonsub Dive 40 Tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 40 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.848525 27.872538 -93.855948 27.870343 Sonsub Dive 40 "The entire dive proceeded through algal nodule (Rhodoliths) habitat. Coralline algae encrusted spherical conglomerates provided substrate for varied leafy algae fields. In order of dominance algae was red algae,green algae, red, then brown and then back to red. Scattered variation of sponges throughout dive. Majority of dive was on flat terrain. Thirty-three digital video still images were taken, 4 Mini-DV tapes were recorded, and 2 possible undescribed species of algae were collected." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/28/2003 Sonsub Dive 40 Tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 40 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.848525 27.872538 -93.855948 27.870343 Sonsub Dive 40 "The entire dive proceeded through algal nodule (Rhodoliths) habitat. Coralline algae encrusted spherical conglomerates provided substrate for varied leafy algae fields. In order of dominance algae was red algae,green algae, red, then brown and then back to red. Scattered variation of sponges throughout dive. Majority of dive was on flat terrain. Thirty-three digital video still images were taken, 4 Mini-DV tapes were recorded, and 2 possible undescribed species of algae were collected." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/28/2003 Sonsub Dive 40 Tape 3 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 40 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.848525 27.872538 -93.855948 27.870343 Sonsub Dive 40 "The entire dive proceeded through algal nodule (Rhodoliths) habitat. Coralline algae encrusted spherical conglomerates provided substrate for varied leafy algae fields. In order of dominance algae was red algae,green algae, red, then brown and then back to red. Scattered variation of sponges throughout dive. Majority of dive was on flat terrain. Thirty-three digital video still images were taken, 4 Mini-DV tapes were recorded, and 2 possible undescribed species of algae were collected." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/28/2003 Sonsub Dive 40 Tape 4 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 40 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.848525 27.872538 -93.855948 27.870343 Sonsub Dive 40 "The entire dive proceeded through algal nodule (Rhodoliths) habitat. Coralline algae encrusted spherical conglomerates provided substrate for varied leafy algae fields. In order of dominance algae was red algae,green algae, red, then brown and then back to red. Scattered variation of sponges throughout dive. Majority of dive was on flat terrain. Thirty-three digital video still images were taken, 4 Mini-DV tapes were recorded, and 2 possible undescribed species of algae were collected." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/28/2003 Sonsub Dive 41 Tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 41 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.84881 27.822003 -96.837027 27.872302 Sonsub Dive 41 "The dive began south of the southern most mound feature within the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary in 140 meters depth. This area is characterized by a sand veneer over scattered rocks. Several species of black corals (antipatharians) were attached to the rocks in this area. As the ROV moved north it came upon the major mound feature. The depth of the feature rose to 107 meters. The feature is characterized by numerous low relief rock outcroppings becoming much larger (3 meters relief) and were highly eroded. After approximately 5 hours, weather conditions on the surface became quite rough and the ship was not able to hits position and the dive was concluded earlier than expected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images of items of interest were taken as well as all sampled items. Annotations were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Seventeen samples were collected including: antipatharians, corals, sponges, gorgonians, and crinoids. All sampels were cataloged in the database." weather conditions on the surface became quite rough and the ship was not able to hits position and the dive was concluded earlier than expected. Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/28/2003 Sonsub Dive 41 Tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 41 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.84881 27.822003 -96.837027 27.872302 Sonsub Dive 41 "The dive began south of the southern most mound feature within the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary in 140 meters depth. This area is characterized by a sand veneer over scattered rocks. Several species of black corals (antipatharians) were attached to the rocks in this area. As the ROV moved north it came upon the major mound feature. The depth of the feature rose to 107 meters. The feature is characterized by numerous low relief rock outcroppings becoming much larger (3 meters relief) and were highly eroded. After approximately 5 hours, weather conditions on the surface became quite rough and the ship was not able to hits position and the dive was concluded earlier than expected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images of items of interest were taken as well as all sampled items. Annotations were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Seventeen samples were collected including: antipatharians, corals, sponges, gorgonians, and crinoids. All sampels were cataloged in the database." Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/28/2003 Sonsub Dive 41 Tape 3 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 41 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.84881 27.822003 -96.837027 27.872302 Sonsub Dive 41 "The dive began south of the southern most mound feature within the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary in 140 meters depth. This area is characterized by a sand veneer over scattered rocks. Several species of black corals (antipatharians) were attached to the rocks in this area. As the ROV moved north it came upon the major mound feature. The depth of the feature rose to 107 meters. The feature is characterized by numerous low relief rock outcroppings becoming much larger (3 meters relief) and were highly eroded. After approximately 5 hours, weather conditions on the surface became quite rough and the ship was not able to hits position and the dive was concluded earlier than expected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images of items of interest were taken as well as all sampled items. Annotations were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Seventeen samples were collected including: antipatharians, corals, sponges, gorgonians, and crinoids. All sampels were cataloged in the database." corals sponges gorgonians and crinoids. All sampels were cataloged in the database. Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/28/2003 Sonsub Dive 41 Tape 4 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 41 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -93.84881 27.822003 -96.837027 27.872302 Sonsub Dive 41 "The dive began south of the southern most mound feature within the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary in 140 meters depth. This area is characterized by a sand veneer over scattered rocks. Several species of black corals (antipatharians) were attached to the rocks in this area. As the ROV moved north it came upon the major mound feature. The depth of the feature rose to 107 meters. The feature is characterized by numerous low relief rock outcroppings becoming much larger (3 meters relief) and were highly eroded. After approximately 5 hours, weather conditions on the surface became quite rough and the ship was not able to hits position and the dive was concluded earlier than expected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images of items of interest were taken as well as all sampled items. Annotations were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Seventeen samples were collected including: antipatharians, corals, sponges, gorgonians, and crinoids. All sampels were cataloged in the database." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/29/2003 Sonsub Dive 42 Tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 42 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -90.697367 28.092682 -90.706963 28.09205 Sonsub Dive 42 "The dive began at 100 meters depth at a location north of the prominent east/west fault feature associated with this Bank. The proposed dive track was to transit south until the ROV encountered the abrupt drop-off at the fault. We then transited south about 1500 meters, stopping many times at various low to moderate relief rock outcroppings. These outcrops were separated by areas of fine sand to mud sediments. The outcrops had various benthis organisms, mostly antipatharians, gorgonians, and crinoids attached. After 1500 meters, the ROV encountered the drop-off and followed it down to 129 meters, where it leveled off. The ROV proceeded northwest back up the inclide and onto the main bank area where more rocky outcrops were inspected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images were taken of items of interest and all sampled items. Annotation were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Twenty-nine specimens were collected includig: black corals, gorgonians, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, sponges, and algae. All samples were cataloged in the database." stopping many times at various low to moderate relief rock outcroppings. These outcrops were separated by areas of fine sand to mud sediments. The outcrops had various benthis organisms mostly antipatharians gorgonians and crinoids attached. After 1500 meters the ROV encountered the drop-off and followed it down to 129 meters where it leveled off. The ROV proceeded northwest back up the inclide and onto the main bank area where more rocky outcrops were inspected. 9/29/2003 Sonsub Dive 42 Tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 42 DVD-ROM 1:00:00 ROV -90.697367 28.092682 -90.706963 28.09205 Sonsub Dive 42 "The dive began at 100 meters depth at a location north of the prominent east/west fault feature associated with this Bank. The proposed dive track was to transit south until the ROV encountered the abrupt drop-off at the fault. We then transited south about 1500 meters, stopping many times at various low to moderate relief rock outcroppings. These outcrops were separated by areas of fine sand to mud sediments. The outcrops had various benthis organisms, mostly antipatharians, gorgonians, and crinoids attached. After 1500 meters, the ROV encountered the drop-off and followed it down to 129 meters, where it leveled off. The ROV proceeded northwest back up the inclide and onto the main bank area where more rocky outcrops were inspected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images were taken of items of interest and all sampled items. Annotation were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Twenty-nine specimens were collected includig: black corals, gorgonians, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, sponges, and algae. All samples were cataloged in the database." 9/29/2003 Sonsub Dive 42 Tape 3 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 42 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -90.697367 28.092682 -90.706963 28.09205 Sonsub Dive 42 "The dive began at 100 meters depth at a location north of the prominent east/west fault feature associated with this Bank. The proposed dive track was to transit south until the ROV encountered the abrupt drop-off at the fault. We then transited south about 1500 meters, stopping many times at various low to moderate relief rock outcroppings. These outcrops were separated by areas of fine sand to mud sediments. The outcrops had various benthis organisms, mostly antipatharians, gorgonians, and crinoids attached. After 1500 meters, the ROV encountered the drop-off and followed it down to 129 meters, where it leveled off. The ROV proceeded northwest back up the inclide and onto the main bank area where more rocky outcrops were inspected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images were taken of items of interest and all sampled items. Annotation were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Twenty-nine specimens were collected includig: black corals, gorgonians, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, sponges, and algae. All samples were cataloged in the database." gorgonians crustaceans echinoderms fish sponges and algae. All samples were cataloged in the database. 9/29/2003 Sosnub Dive 42 Tape 4 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 42 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -90.697367 28.092682 -90.706963 28.09205 Sonsub Dive 42 "The dive began at 100 meters depth at a location north of the prominent east/west fault feature associated with this Bank. The proposed dive track was to transit south until the ROV encountered the abrupt drop-off at the fault. We then transited south about 1500 meters, stopping many times at various low to moderate relief rock outcroppings. These outcrops were separated by areas of fine sand to mud sediments. The outcrops had various benthis organisms, mostly antipatharians, gorgonians, and crinoids attached. After 1500 meters, the ROV encountered the drop-off and followed it down to 129 meters, where it leveled off. The ROV proceeded northwest back up the inclide and onto the main bank area where more rocky outcrops were inspected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images were taken of items of interest and all sampled items. Annotation were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Twenty-nine specimens were collected includig: black corals, gorgonians, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, sponges, and algae. All samples were cataloged in the database." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/29/2003 Sonsub Dive 42 Tape 5 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 42 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -90.697367 28.092682 -90.706963 28.09205 Sonsub Dive 42 "The dive began at 100 meters depth at a location north of the prominent east/west fault feature associated with this Bank. The proposed dive track was to transit south until the ROV encountered the abrupt drop-off at the fault. We then transited south about 1500 meters, stopping many times at various low to moderate relief rock outcroppings. These outcrops were separated by areas of fine sand to mud sediments. The outcrops had various benthis organisms, mostly antipatharians, gorgonians, and crinoids attached. After 1500 meters, the ROV encountered the drop-off and followed it down to 129 meters, where it leveled off. The ROV proceeded northwest back up the inclide and onto the main bank area where more rocky outcrops were inspected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images were taken of items of interest and all sampled items. Annotation were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Twenty-nine specimens were collected includig: black corals, gorgonians, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, sponges, and algae. All samples were cataloged in the database." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/29/2003 Sonsub Dive 42 Tape 6 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 42 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -90.697367 28.092682 -90.706963 28.09205 Sonsub Dive 42 "The dive began at 100 meters depth at a location north of the prominent east/west fault feature associated with this Bank. The proposed dive track was to transit south until the ROV encountered the abrupt drop-off at the fault. We then transited south about 1500 meters, stopping many times at various low to moderate relief rock outcroppings. These outcrops were separated by areas of fine sand to mud sediments. The outcrops had various benthis organisms, mostly antipatharians, gorgonians, and crinoids attached. After 1500 meters, the ROV encountered the drop-off and followed it down to 129 meters, where it leveled off. The ROV proceeded northwest back up the inclide and onto the main bank area where more rocky outcrops were inspected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images were taken of items of interest and all sampled items. Annotation were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Twenty-nine specimens were collected includig: black corals, gorgonians, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, sponges, and algae. All samples were cataloged in the database." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/29/2003 Sonsub Dive 42 Tape 7 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 42 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -90.697367 28.092682 -90.706963 28.09205 Sonsub Dive 42 "The dive began at 100 meters depth at a location north of the prominent east/west fault feature associated with this Bank. The proposed dive track was to transit south until the ROV encountered the abrupt drop-off at the fault. We then transited south about 1500 meters, stopping many times at various low to moderate relief rock outcroppings. These outcrops were separated by areas of fine sand to mud sediments. The outcrops had various benthis organisms, mostly antipatharians, gorgonians, and crinoids attached. After 1500 meters, the ROV encountered the drop-off and followed it down to 129 meters, where it leveled off. The ROV proceeded northwest back up the inclide and onto the main bank area where more rocky outcrops were inspected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images were taken of items of interest and all sampled items. Annotation were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Twenty-nine specimens were collected includig: black corals, gorgonians, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, sponges, and algae. All samples were cataloged in the database." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/29/2003 Sonsub Dive 42 Tape 8 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 42 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -90.697367 28.092682 -90.706963 28.09205 Sonsub Dive 42 "The dive began at 100 meters depth at a location north of the prominent east/west fault feature associated with this Bank. The proposed dive track was to transit south until the ROV encountered the abrupt drop-off at the fault. We then transited south about 1500 meters, stopping many times at various low to moderate relief rock outcroppings. These outcrops were separated by areas of fine sand to mud sediments. The outcrops had various benthis organisms, mostly antipatharians, gorgonians, and crinoids attached. After 1500 meters, the ROV encountered the drop-off and followed it down to 129 meters, where it leveled off. The ROV proceeded northwest back up the inclide and onto the main bank area where more rocky outcrops were inspected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images were taken of items of interest and all sampled items. Annotation were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Twenty-nine specimens were collected includig: black corals, gorgonians, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, sponges, and algae. All samples were cataloged in the database." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" George P Schmahl Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary 9/30/2003 Sonsub Dive 43 tape 1 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 43 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -89.716667 28.066 -89.717 28.065 Sonsub Dive 43 "Dive started on mud buttom (at~ 625 meters) interspersed with bushes of Callagorgia. The bushes became less dense as we progressed Eastward, and finally disappeared altogether leaving a barren mud flat. Another transect was followed towards the West ans South, took video footage and made several collections around the gorgonian bushes. A few fairly large colonies of Madrepera, and one small colony of Lophelia were found. No stony coral thickets were found. The Gorgonian thickets appeared in patches to the south of the inital transect line. The initial west to east transect line included long track of muddy bottom to the East. This transect was shortened and the ROV returned to the West, then South, and then back East. Initial transect patterns were abandoned to optimize search of more promissing habitat." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/30/2003 Sonsub Dive 43 Tape 2 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 43 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -89.716667 28.066 -89.717 28.065 Sonsub Dive 43 "Dive started on mud buttom (at~ 625 meters) interspersed with bushes of Callagorgia. The bushes became less dense as we progressed Eastward, and finally disappeared altogether leaving a barren mud flat. Another transect was followed towards the West ans South, took video footage and made several collections around the gorgonian bushes. A few fairly large colonies of Madrepera, and one small colony of Lophelia were found. No stony coral thickets were found. The Gorgonian thickets appeared in patches to the south of the inital transect line. The initial west to east transect line included long track of muddy bottom to the East. This transect was shortened and the ROV returned to the West, then South, and then back East. Initial transect patterns were abandoned to optimize search of more promissing habitat." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/30/2003 Sonsub Dive 43 Tape 3 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 43 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -89.716667 28.066 -89.717 28.065 Sonsub Dive 43 "Dive started on mud buttom (at~ 625 meters) interspersed with bushes of Callagorgia. The bushes became less dense as we progressed Eastward, and finally disappeared altogether leaving a barren mud flat. Another transect was followed towards the West ans South, took video footage and made several collections around the gorgonian bushes. A few fairly large colonies of Madrepera, and one small colony of Lophelia were found. No stony coral thickets were found. The Gorgonian thickets appeared in patches to the south of the inital transect line. The initial west to east transect line included long track of muddy bottom to the East. This transect was shortened and the ROV returned to the West, then South, and then back East. Initial transect patterns were abandoned to optimize search of more promissing habitat." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/30/2003 Sonsub Dive 43 Tape 4 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 43 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -89.716667 28.066 -89.717 28.065 Sonsub Dive 43 "Dive started on mud buttom (at~ 625 meters) interspersed with bushes of Callagorgia. The bushes became less dense as we progressed Eastward, and finally disappeared altogether leaving a barren mud flat. Another transect was followed towards the West ans South, took video footage and made several collections around the gorgonian bushes. A few fairly large colonies of Madrepera, and one small colony of Lophelia were found. No stony coral thickets were found. The Gorgonian thickets appeared in patches to the south of the inital transect line. The initial west to east transect line included long track of muddy bottom to the East. This transect was shortened and the ROV returned to the West, then South, and then back East. Initial transect patterns were abandoned to optimize search of more promissing habitat." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/30/2003 Sonsub Dive 43 Tape 5a GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 43 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -89.716667 28.066 -89.717 28.065 Sonsub Dive 43 "Dive started on mud buttom (at~ 625 meters) interspersed with bushes of Callagorgia. The bushes became less dense as we progressed Eastward, and finally disappeared altogether leaving a barren mud flat. Another transect was followed towards the West ans South, took video footage and made several collections around the gorgonian bushes. A few fairly large colonies of Madrepera, and one small colony of Lophelia were found. No stony coral thickets were found. The Gorgonian thickets appeared in patches to the south of the inital transect line. The initial west to east transect line included long track of muddy bottom to the East. This transect was shortened and the ROV returned to the West, then South, and then back East. Initial transect patterns were abandoned to optimize search of more promissing habitat." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/30/2003 Sonsub Dive 43 Tape 5b GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 43 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -89.716667 28.066 -89.717 28.065 Sonsub Dive 43 "Dive started on mud buttom (at~ 625 meters) interspersed with bushes of Callagorgia. The bushes became less dense as we progressed Eastward, and finally disappeared altogether leaving a barren mud flat. Another transect was followed towards the West ans South, took video footage and made several collections around the gorgonian bushes. A few fairly large colonies of Madrepera, and one small colony of Lophelia were found. No stony coral thickets were found. The Gorgonian thickets appeared in patches to the south of the inital transect line. The initial west to east transect line included long track of muddy bottom to the East. This transect was shortened and the ROV returned to the West, then South, and then back East. Initial transect patterns were abandoned to optimize search of more promissing habitat." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/30/2003 Sonsub Dive 43 Tape 6 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 43 Mini DV 1:00:00 ROV -89.716667 28.066 -89.717 28.065 Sonsub Dive 43 "Dive started on mud buttom (at~ 625 meters) interspersed with bushes of Callagorgia. The bushes became less dense as we progressed Eastward, and finally disappeared altogether leaving a barren mud flat. Another transect was followed towards the West ans South, took video footage and made several collections around the gorgonian bushes. A few fairly large colonies of Madrepera, and one small colony of Lophelia were found. No stony coral thickets were found. The Gorgonian thickets appeared in patches to the south of the inital transect line. The initial west to east transect line included long track of muddy bottom to the East. This transect was shortened and the ROV returned to the West, then South, and then back East. Initial transect patterns were abandoned to optimize search of more promissing habitat." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary" Sandra Brooke University of Oregon 9/28/2003 Sonsub Dive 41 Tape 5 GOM Deep Sea Habitats Sonsub 41 Mini DV ROV -93.84881 27.822003 -96.837027 27.872302 Sonsub Dive 41 "The dive began south of the southern most mound feature within the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary in 140 meters depth. This area is characterized by a sand veneer over scattered rocks. Several species of black corals (antipatharians) were attached to the rocks in this area. As the ROV moved north it came upon the major mound feature. The depth of the feature rose to 107 meters. The feature is characterized by numerous low relief rock outcroppings becoming much larger (3 meters relief) and were highly eroded. After approximately 5 hours, weather conditions on the surface became quite rough and the ship was not able to hits position and the dive was concluded earlier than expected. Digital video was collected of the entire dive. Digital video still images of items of interest were taken as well as all sampled items. Annotations were made of the entire dive with habitat and species identification when possible. Seventeen samples were collected including: antipatharians, corals, sponges, gorgonians, and crinoids. All sampels were cataloged in the database." Gulf of Mexico Deep Habitats Submersible investigations in the Northwest GoM "Schmahl, George, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary"