Category Archives: Research

Using Multibeam Sonar to Map MPAs: Tool of the Future for Planning and Management?

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FROM: https://mpanews.openchannels.org/news/mpa-news/using-multibeam-sonar-map-mpas-tool-future-planning-and-management

Using Multibeam Sonar to Map MPAs: Tool of the Future for Planning and Management?

The seafloor – sandy or rocky; flat or sloped; seamount or canyon – provides the foundation for multiple processes within MPAs, including the distribution of flora and fauna. However, MPA practitioners have generally had only patchy knowledge, at best, of what lies at the bottom of their protected sites, based on information gathered from fishermen, divers, and rough bathymetric data from nautical charts. With an inexact understanding of what’s “down there”, planners and managers face a real challenge of drawing appropriate boundaries and protecting the habitats they want to protect.

Under such conditions, multibeam sonar may be the tool of the future for MPA practitioners. Used now at a small number of MPAs in North America, this mapping technology provides resource managers with the ability to envision the seabed as they never have before. Practitioners are using it to pinpoint boundaries, streamline research costs, identify and reduce ecosystem impacts from fishing, and more. This month, MPA News examines the technology of multibeam sonar and how resource managers are adapting it to fit their needs.

The basics of multibeam sonar

Maps of the seafloor made over the past century vary widely in accuracy. Older navigation systems resulted in features being mapped several hundred meters or even kilometers from their actual geographic locations. Systems to measure depth resulted in errors of tens to hundreds of meters. Depending on the spatial resolution of the mapping system, objects less than a certain size – even undersea mountains, in some cases – could fail to appear at all.

US military researchers developed multibeam sonar in the 1960s to address these problems. Mounted on a ship’s hull, the sonar sends a fan of sound energy toward the seafloor, then records the reflected sound through a set of narrow receivers aimed at different angles. Declassified for civilian use in the 1980s, the technology has since advanced to the point where it can detect features as small as one meter across and locate them to within one meter of their true geographic location. It provides users with two kinds of data: bathymetric (depth) data, and “acoustic backscatter”. The latter, which records the amount of sound returned off the ocean bottom, helps scientists identify the geologic makeup – sand, gravel, mud – of the seafloor.

In the 1990s, government hydrographic agencies appropriated the technology to improve the accuracy of their nautical charts, particularly in harbors subject to sediment shifting and other navigation obstacles. Oil and gas companies seized on multibeam sonar to help explore the seabed in their search for hydrocarbon deposits. And by the late 1990s, some MPA managers began to see the possibilities offered by the technology for studying seafloor habitats. Jim Gardner, a marine geologist with the US Geological Survey, said, “Multibeam sonar gives managers, for the first time, a very clear view of the bathymetry and backscatter of their MPA – it’s really the first time they’ve seen what they’re protecting.”

One question that the technology helps practitioners to answer is, Where should an MPA be sited? “A lot of people just draw a polygon on a map, and that becomes their marine protected area,” said John Hughes Clarke, a marine geologist at the University of New Brunswick, Canada. But drawing an arbitrary line fails to consider the hydrographic forces – such as currents – that affect a site, or its topography. Notably, the Canadian government has expressed interest in using multibeam sonar to help it redraw the boundary for its exclusive economic zone, which officials aim to extend beyond the current 200-nm range in areas where the continental shelf stretches beyond that line.

Hughes Clarke believes that Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) should take account of the seabed whenever designating MPAs. His team of researchers is mapping the Musquash Estuary, a shallow, partly intertidal area in New Brunswick that DFO is considering for formal MPA designation. In the estuary, he is using a series of multibeam surveys to map erosion, sediment deposition, and other surface-sediment changes over time – factors to consider when drawing up a management plan for the site.

Robert Rangeley, marine program director for the Atlantic regional office of World Wildlife Fund Canada (an NGO), said multibeam sonar benefits seafloor conservation in a number of ways. “First, the better we know the distribution of bottom types, the better we can map out both distinctive and representative habitats for protection,” he said. “Second, we can better understand the relationships between patterns in benthic habitats and patterns in the distributions of benthic organisms. And third, by limiting bottomfishing to those areas with high fisheries yield, the area of seafloor that is impacted by bottom gear – and the diversity and abundance of bycatch – can be reduced.”

Use of multibeam in marine protected areas

The number of marine protected areas that have been mapped using multibeam sonar is very small. The technology remains unfamiliar to many practitioners, and the cost to deploy it can be fairly high (see box Questions and answers on multibeam sonar). Nonetheless, planners and managers of several sites have incorporated it in their work, illustrating a mix of potential applications:

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Race Rocks Area of Interest, Canada

The rugged Race Rocks archipelago off the province of British Columbia is on the verge of formal, federal designation as a marine protected area. Researchers have conducted a series of seabed surveys of the site – with multibeam sonar and other technologies – resulting in detailed imagery of rock outcrops, small sand waves, sediments located in depressions in rocky zones, and more. “The definition of the seabed assists in estimating the degree of uniqueness of this area, a fundamental requirement for designation as an MPA,” said Jim Galloway, head of sonar systems for the Canadian Hydrographic Service. “Similarly these baseline surveys contribute to our knowledge of nursery locations within the boundary, thereby giving us the means to protect species and habitat appropriately.” As it has done for Flower Garden Banks, the multibeam mapping has also contributed to community education efforts. “The dramatic imagery and definition greatly assisted stakeholders in their appreciation of the suitability of Race Rocks to be assigned MPA status,” said Galloway. Incidentally, the Canadian Hydrographic Service is located within the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, which is responsible for designating MPAs in Canada. This co-location of responsibilities helped ease the process of executing the seabed surveys at Race Rocks and reduced operational costs, said Galloway.

For more information:
Jim Gardner, US Geological Survey MS-999, 345 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA. Tel: +1 650 329 5469; E-mail: jvgardner@usgs.gov.

John Hughes Clarke, Ocean Mapping Group, Department of Geodesy and Geomatics Engineering, University of New Brunswick, P.O. Box 4400, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada. Tel: +1 506 453 4568; E-mail: jhc@omg.unb.ca.

Leslie Burke, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Regional Director’s Office, Scotia-Fundy Fisheries, P.O. Box 1035, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B2Y 4T3, Canada. Tel: +1 902 426 9962; E-mail: burkel@mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Andrew David, National Marine Fisheries Service, 3500 Delwood Beach Road, Panama City, FL 32408, USA. Tel: +1 850 234 6541 x208; E-mail: andy.david@noaa.gov.

G.P. Schmahl, Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, 216 W. 26th Street, Suite 104, Bryan, TX 77803, USA. Tel: +1 979 779 2705; E-mail: george.schmahl@noaa.gov.

Jim Galloway, Canadian Hydrographic service, Institute of Ocean Sciences, 9860 West Saanich Road, Sidney, BC V8L 4B2, Canada. Tel: +1 250 363 6316; E-mail: gallowayj@pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

Hydrocoral at Race Rocks and Alberto Lindner

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Alberto Lindner is studying the systematics and evolution of hydrocorals using morphological and molecular biology methods for his Ph.D. thesis. He visited Race Rocks in the summer of 2002. The occurrence of hydrocoral in the low intertidal zone is an unusual occurrence on the Pacific West Coast and Alberto is aiming to help us in the identification of the different colored clones of the animal. His supervisor and advisors are Dr. Stephen Cairns (Smithsonian) , Dr.Cliff Cunningham ( Duke University) and Dr. Dale Calder (Royal Ontario Museum) This is part of a program of training young zoologists in established and new methods of systematics Alberto comes from Brazil, having completed a Master’s degree in the University of São Paulo.

Alberto was introduced to us by Dr. Anita Brinkmann-Voss

See  Hydrocorals in The Race Rock Taxonomy

After returning to his lab and doing further analysis, Alberto reported that “It is pretty safe to say that the purple and pink color morphs of Stylaster corals (Allopora) from Race Rocks are the same species”. He has also noted the same result with deep-sea species from the Aleutians, as the orange and pink forms there do not separate the species.

Link to Alberto’s website.

Stylaster parageus columbiensis: (Hydrocoral) –The Race Rocks Taxonomy

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pinkquadac

A bed of Stylaster parageus columbiensis. in front of the docks at Race Rocks off peg #2 at 10 meters. Note the basket star, clumps of whelks and patches of red encrusting sponge.picture width : 80cm.

This colonial hydroid grows from the 0.2 tidal level to over 20 meters in depth in various places throughout the Race Rocks Ecological Reservee. At low tide, it is visible in several protected crevices and in Anita’s tidepool ( #6 on the West shore) Subtidally it is common in both purple and pink colonies . East of the Middle Islands, it has been observed by divers at 20 meters, growing in erect branching form of considerable profile ( to 20 centimeters.)

Domain Eukarya
Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Cnidaria
Class Hydrozoa
Order Anthoathecata)
Family Stylasteriidae
Genus Stylaster
Species parageus columbiensis (Lindner & Cairns)
Common Name: Hydrocoral

In July of 2002, Dr. Anita Brinckmann-Voss of Sooke had Alberto Lindner, a PhD student from Duke University visiting to exchange scientific information and to get help with identification of hydroids from collections in Alaska and the Olympic Penninsula. Alberto is studying the systematics and evolution of hydrocorals using morphological and molecular biology methods for his Ph.D. thesis. His supervisor and advisors are Dr. Stephen Cairns (Smithsonian) , Dr.Chris Cunningham (Duke University) and Dr. Dale Calder (Royal Ontario Museum) This is part of a program of training young zoologists in established and new methods of sytematics. Alberto comes from Brazil, having completed a Master’s degree in the University of Sao Paolo.

 

hydrocoralAnita made arrangements with us to get Alberto to the islands so that he could see Allopora growing in its natural habitat. Although it was not a zero tide level, we were still able to collect several small samples for him to do DNA analysis. He hoped to be able to sort out whether or not there is a distinct species difference in the color varieties we find at Race Rocks. 

rm2010hydrocoral2

The two color morphs of Stylasterias parageus columbiensis at Race Rocks . photo by Ryan Murphy

After returning to his lab and doing further analysis, Alberto reported that “It is pretty safe to say that the purple and pink color morphs of Stylaster corals (Allopora) from Race Rocks are the same species”. He has also noted the same result with deep-sea species from the Aleutians, as the orange and pink forms there do not separate the species.

See the record of his research on species identification here: Stylaster parageus columbiensis Lindner & Cairns in Cairns & Lindner, 2011

The following images were taken by the Ecoguardian Ryan Murphy in 2010. many different species including basket star in the image above have adapted to use the hydrocoral as a habitat because of it’s protective crevasses.

see this link for other hydroids:  https://www.racerocks.ca/tag/hydroid/

This file is provided as part of a collaborative effort by Lester B. Pearson College students, staff, volunteers and local scientists.

A UVic study explores renewable energy options at Canada’s newest Marine Protected Area

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Going with the flow

A UVic study explores renewable energy options at Canada’s newest Marine Protected Area

by Diane Haughlandracerocks

niet

Taco Niet

The essence of Race Rocks is its tides. Tides that feed biodiversity. Tides that have brought ships to their knees upon its rocky shores. And tides that may bring it to the forefront of renewable energy technology.
For his recently completed master’s thesis, UVic mechanical engineering graduate student Taco Niet has created a model that shows tidal power to be the most realistic source of renewable energy for Race Rocks.
A collection of nine tiny islets with a big reputation, Race Rocks is situated 17 km southwest of Victoria at the eastern end of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Its reefs and strong tidal currents — up to seven knots — support an exceptional diversity of marine life, including invertebrates, fish, seabirds and marine mammals. In 2000 it became Canada’s first Marine Protected Area created under the federal Oceans Act.
Race Rocks hosts a lighthouse, occasional researchers and educators, and two full-time guardians employed by Lester B. Pearson College. The college has also installed a local area network that allows Internet video coverage around the clock, accessible at www.racerocks.com.
While the light tower and foghorn are powered by solar panels, a diesel generator supplies the guardians with the energy required to live full-time at Race Rocks, including energy-costly water desalination. Several times a year, diesel fuel is transported to the island by boat and pumped into storage tanks, an enterprise with plenty of potential environmental hazard.
Garry Fletcher, educational director at Pearson College, initiated the renewable energy project through contact with UVic’s institute for integrated energy systems (IESVic). Institute director Dr. Ged McLean, Niet, and two other students soon began preliminary energy modeling.
Niet later took on the project as a master’s thesis. He modelled the hourly energy flows for an entire year, using information collected by electronic monitors that recorded energy use, wind speed, sun exposure and tidal flow. McLean stresses the importance of Niet’s model.
“It’s the only one we know of that tracks energy production and demand on an hourly basis. Most models use a larger time scale, glossing over the amount of time when energy production is zero.” McLean adds, “Taco also made his system entirely self-contained — there are no traditional back-up systems in the model, making it especially relevant to small, isolated communities.”
In the end, gleaming solar panels and spinning wind turbines were not the best choice; it was the eggbeater-like tidal turbines that came out tops. Niet says it’s not surprising that tidal power emerged ahead of solar and wind.
“Tides arrive every six hours, every day, year-round,” he points out. “They’re reliable.” Tidal ebb and flow result in the most favourable balance between energy production and demand, requiring less energy storage than either of the alternatives.
“We see the Race Rocks model as an alternative energy parable,” Niet muses. “It provides a realistic picture of what we can — and can’t — do with renewable energy.” Seasonal variation in many renewable energy sources requires large investments in energy storage. “Blanketing every inch of an area with solar panels is not exactly environmentally friendly,” Niet explains, “not to mention the environmental and economic costs of making the panels.”
While Niet’s model currently exists only on paper, the Race Rocks energy parable could soon become a reality. Niet is searching for an industrial partner to take the next step. “We need to conduct an environmental assessment,” Niet says, “and if the results are favourable, we’ll require funding to implement the turbines”.
Meanwhile, Niet, McLean, and McLean’s new students forge ahead. Their next project? “North America is the next, logical self-contained unit to model,” enthuse Niet and McLean. “Our goal is to understand what a realistic future looks like,” McLean explains, “and how sustainable energy technology fits in that world.”
Funding for Niet’s work was provided by McLean’s Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council operating grant.

 

Diane Haughland is a participant in the SPARK program (Students Promoting Awareness of Research Knowledge), funded by UVic, NSERC and SSHRC.

From The Ring,  Feb 21, 2002

Intertidal Zonation of Halosaccion glandiforme:

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EXTENDED ESSAY IN BIOLOGY
INTERTIDAL ZONATION OF HALOSACCION GLANDIFORME:
A FOCUS ON HEIGHT AND SLOPE AS FACTORS OF ZONATION

LESTER B. PEARSON COLLEGE

ALEX C. FLETCHER

JANUARY 14, 2002

ABSTRACT:
An intertidal study of the organism Halosaccion glandiforme was performed at Race Rocks Marine Protected Area a unique and undisturbed island located seventeen kilometres southwest of Victoria in the Strait of Juan de Fuca . Belt transects from three similar locations on the island were taken from the zero tide level up past the high tide mark. These transect photos were combined with other measurements and calculations to look at the variables influencing growth in the intertidal zone. The intertidal zone is unique in its numerous abiotic and biotic factors that influence life in the region. For the purpose of this study two of these factors were chosen in an attempt to quantify the possible relation that exists between them and the ecological niche of Halosaccion glandiforme. Vertical elevation from the zero tide level and angle of inclination of the rocky shore were compared with population density of the species. While analysis of slope and population density relation proved fairly inconclusive, simple statistical testing showed that a trend does exist between intertidal height and population density of Halosaccion glandiforme.  

Table of Contents

List of Figures and Tables

Introduction…………………………………………………………………………1

The Problem

            Purpose and Background of the Study

            Hypotheses

            Limitations  

Review of Literature and Related Research…………………………..……….3

Introduction, Information about the organism

            The Theory

            Research Results in Related Areas

Research Design and Procedures………………………………………………7

The Setting and Population of the Study

            The Experimental and Control Groups Used

            Instruments Used

Analysis of Data……………………………………………………………….…10

Introduction

            Findings that Relate to Hypotheses 1 and 2

            Statistical Analysis

            Findings that Relate Hypotheses 3 and 4

Conclusions and Recommendations for Further Study…………….…….20

Interpretations and Implications of the Findings

            Recommendations

References Cited…………………………………………………………..…..…22

Appendix…………………………………………………………………………..23

Transect-peg 5

            Transect-peg 5b1

            Transect-peg 6

List of Figures and Tables

Figure 1.   A small cluster of Halosaccion glandiforme, among barnacles, is shown growing next to a tide pool. …………………………………………………………………………. 1

Figure 3.   Areal view of Race Rocks Marine protected Area. Yellow markers indicate locations of study pegs and belt transect line ……………………………………………… 6

Figure 4. Working with H.glandiforme at the race Rocks Marine Protected Area…………………………………………………………………………………………………………7 
Figure 5.   This image represents an example of a meter segment from the belt transect (taken from peg 6 at meter 4). …………………………………………………………………….. 8

Figure 6.   This image is an example of a meter segment from a belt transect (peg6, meter segment 4).  ………………………………………………………………………………………. 9

Table 1. Population density (in percent coverage of each meter segment) is shown in relation to the mean
of vertical height of the corresponding meter segment from measurements at peg 5. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10

Table 2. Population density (in percent coverage of each meter segment) is listed in relation to the mean of vertical height of the corresponding meter segment from measurements at peg 5b1. …………………………………………………………………. 10

Table 3. Population density (in percent coverage from each meter segment) is shown in relation to the mean of vertical height of the corresponding meter segment from measurements at peg 6. ……………………………………………………………………… 10

Figure 7. Graph of data from table one, peg 5.………………………………………… 11

Figure 8. Graph of data from table 2, peg 5b1.………………………………………… 11

Figure 9. Graph of data from table 3, peg 6……………………………………………… 12

Figure 10. Graph of population density in relation to mean of intertidal vertical height with

the three belt transects combined. ………………………………………………………….. 12

Table 4. Table of combined data of the significant values for the analysis of normal distribution from three pegs. …………………………………………………………………… 13

Table 5. Data table of expected normal distribution values and obtained distribution values used in conjunction to perform chi-squared test.………………………………………… 13

Figure 11. Graph of percent coverage vs. vertical height, comparing obtained values to normal distribution values………………………………………………………………………… 14

Figure 12. Graph of peg 5, belt transect terrain profile. ………………………………. 15

Figure 13. Graph of peg 5b1, belt transect terrain profile…………………………….. 16

Figure 14. Graph of peg 6, belt transect terrain profile………………………………… 17

Table 6. This data shows percent coverage in relation to the slope of the intertidal zone. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………..  18

Figure 15. Graph of table 6, the relation between population density and intertidal slope……………………………………………………………………………………………………..18

Introduction

image001

Figure 1. A small cluster of Halosaccion glandiforme among barnacles, ius shown growing next to a tidepool

The Problem:The purpose of this study is to try and quantify certain factors that are a part of the ecological niche of the sea sac Halosaccion glandiforme (figure 1) from the Rhodophyta division. From observing this plant on numerous occasions it is clear that this organism grows in a limited vertical range on the intertidal zone, the threshold between marine aquatic and terrestrial environments. It is likely that a specific physical setting exists for this species, and similarly with other intertidal species, where growing conditions are optimal. The main focus will be to look at the extent to which slope and elevation, in the tidal zone, affect the ideal habitat conditions of the Halosaccion glandiforme.

Purpose and background of the Study

image004

Figure 2. Picture showing Halosaccion glandiforme growing up to but not on a vertical surface.

Similar to all rocky intertidal dwelling species Halosaccion glandiforme is well adapted to survive the dynamic conditions presented in this ecosystem. This zone is characterized by the rapid changes and variability of temperature, light, moisture, salinity, and water movement. The aqua dynamics of the sea sac’s streamlined shape decreases the friction between it and the constantly moving marine waters. H. glandiforme are well anchored to surfaces (usually rock) by strong attachment devices as well as by growing in clusters of its own kind it is more protected. Being a water-filled sac the plant is less susceptible to the changes in moisture and temperature as a result of the tidal waters that are more limiting to other algae such as sea lettuce (Ulva fenestrata) and Purple laver (Porphyra perforata). From observations a growth trend along certain elevations, where the appropriate conditions of moisture and sunlight are found, appears to exist for H. glandiforme and other intertidal species. Also based on observation (figure 2) it seems as though the inclination of rock

surface influences the location of intertidal species including the H. glandiforme. This may be caused by the force of water movement along flatter, less restrictive surfaces, compared to steeper surfaces where friction between rock and water results in turbulence and a rough growing site for organisms. The characteristics and adaptations of each intertidal organism determine its niche. In looking at some of the many determining variables that exist along the seashore we can attempt to quantify this area.

Hypotheses

Hypothetically there is a measurable height at which this alga prospers as well as a preferred degree of inclination for its growth. A higher density population trend along the intertidal zone at this level would represent this.

  1. Ho- There is no significant relation between Halosaccion glandiforme population density and the vertical elevation on the tidal zone.
  2. Ha- there is a significant relation between Halosaccion glandiforme population density and the vertical elevation on the tidal zone
  3. Ho- There is no significant relation between inter tidal angle of slope and population density of the Halosaccion glandiforme.
  4. Ha- There is a significant relation between inter tidal angle of slope and population density of the Halosaccion glandiforme.

Limitations

This study is limited by only taking data at one point in the growing season of the plant and by not having the time to repeat collections of data several times over an extended period of time. The site of study, performed at Race Rocks Marine Protected Area is a prime location for flourishing intertidal life. However, taking measurements and data from three locations in one confined area is limiting in respect to the broadness of the viability of the results. Due to restrictions of time it was not possible to explore further relations and effects of abiotic and biotic factors. In addition many of the highly influential factors (such as wave motion, temperature, etc.) are not easily quantified and are not easily controlled thereby limiting the accuracy and broadness of the study and it’s findings.

Review of Literature and Related Research

Introduction, Information about the Organism

Specific information on Halosaccion glandiforme is limited beyond short physical descriptions and categorization. In Pacific Coastal marine texts Halosaccion is often referred to for its intertidal qualities while actual studies on the plant were not found while researching the topic. Typical descriptions of Halosaccion glandiforme depict the plant as a thin-walled elongated sausage-shaped sac found in the mid-intertidal region of rock dominated shores. The plant is identifiable by its rounded head and short stipe anchored by a small circular holdfast. Also, resulting from the water it contains, applying pressure to the plant produces fine sprays of water emitted from the pores.     In Common Seaweeds of the Pacific Coast (by J. Robert Waaland) it is stated that “Halosaccion glandiforme may reach lengths up to 25 cm and 3 to 4 cm in diameter; typical sizes are about 15 cm long by 2 to 3 cm in diameter.” The maximum length (25cm) is far greater than those studied in this paper. Typical sizes, in the populations and the physical vicinity of the study for this paper, were closer to a range of 1 to 10 cm in length.

The Theory

While theory in the area of inter tidal zone life is limited there is literature that states observations relating to the structured zonation that occurs in the intertidal zone. The slope hypothesis is related to a general description of the influence of shoreline gradient on intertidal zonation provided in Pacific Seashores A Guide to Intertidal Ecology (Carefoot, 1977). “Generally, where the range of the tides is small, or where the slope of the beach is steep, the bands are narrow; where the range of the tides is great, or where the slope of the beach is flat, the zones are wide.” From this statement it is clear that physical factors such as slope are influential on the intertidal zonation and banding of species. In Seashore Life of the Northern Pacific (Kozloff, 1996) it is stated that “On flat-topped reefs and rocks that do not have steep slopes, there should be plenty of Halosaccion glandiforme.” This provides a basis for the concept that shoreline gradient is plausible as a factor influencing the growth of Halosaccion. Therefore such factors of the intertidal zone directly affect the band of ideal growing conditions for organisms.

A theoretical description for universal zonation is presented by Stephenson’s “universal” scheme of zonation (Stephenson, 1949). This scheme is representative of the diverse zonal patterns around the world. It divides tidal shores into five main categories. From highest to lowest is the Supralittoral zone above the tidemark being mainly terrestrial however influenced by spray from waves and ocean mist. Below is the supralittorial fringe that encompasses the upper intertidal zone including the highest living barnacle and lowest limits of lichens. The Midlittoral zone is the whole intertidal area from the most elevated barnacles to the most elevated brown algae. The lowest edge of the intertidal zone represents the beginning of the Infralittoral fringe that continues to the lowest mark visible between waves at low tide. Bellow is the final tidal zone called the Infralittoral zone being almost constantly submerged. In this scheme Halosaccion glandiforme is situated between the extreme high water mark and the extreme low water mark somewhat centrally in the midlittoral zone.

Research Results in related areas

The most significant research results that relate to this paper involve work done on the abiotic features that affect the growth of intertidal organisms. While the research is not specific to Halosaccion glandiforme it is relevant to the intertidal zone occupied by this species.

The primary factor in determining growing location for algae results from the production of their many spores and the conditions that affect where the spores choose to settle. The few spores that survive and continue to develop into their gametophyte forms will only survive if they are in appropriate niche for that species.

There is much research that has gone into the effect of tidal levels and variation on zonation. The theory of zonation is based on the relationship between intertidal zones and tide levels. However it is not “universal” as it has been found (even by the Stephensons) to be inaccurate in certain situations. This comes from the influence of other factors that cause variance between intertidal zones and that must be considered when studying this area. The cycles that tides go through, in accordance with the sun and predominantly the moon, will affect the intertidal zone configuration by controlling the submersion of the intertidal zone and its organisms.

The upper limits of the intertidal zone are subject to temperature fluctuations and other abiotic terrestrial environmental factors such as air movement and fresh water that effect growth. Water retention enables certain species to survive for longer periods of time out of the water and therefore higher in the intertidal zone. The effects of exposure on seaweeds has been studied by Kanwisher (Kanwisher, J, 1957). In his article “Freezing and drying in intertidal algae” he measures water loss in certain algal species of the intertidal area. A brown alga Fucus vesiculosus was recorded as having lost 91% of its moisture to evaporation from solar heat. In laboratory work performed he found that this level of evaporation would occur in a period of about an hour and half. Similarly Enteromorpha linza demonstrated an 84 percent loss of water and Ulva lactuca a 77 percent loss of water when subject to terrestrial conditions. It is likely that the structure of Halosaccion glandiforme, being a water retentive sac, permits for lengthier exposure time with a higher level of water retention.

Light is a very influential aspect on intertidal life and zonation. As the source for photosynthesis it is vital to plant life. However it is also harmful in that ultra violet light can damage plant tissue. The sun’s UV rays can bleach marine plants that spend extended periods of time out of the water.

There is also the factor of competition for growing space amongst the many species and individuals occupying the limited space of the intertidal zone. As well predation and grazing by herbivores will affect the growing conditions of intertidal species.   The abrasive action by waves is a determinate in zonation separating stronger better-adapted organisms from those that are not able to endure the conditions. Some organisms have greater survivability in such conditions through growing in clusters, having streamlined shapes, sturdy holdfasts, and other such features.

Research Design and Procedures

image008

Figure 3, Aerial view of Race Rocks Ecological Reserve. Yellow markers denote location of study pegs and belt transect lines.

The Setting and Population of the Study

The data collection for this study was carried out at Race Rocks Marine Protected Area located 17 kilometres southwest of Victoria in the eastern Juan de Fuca Straight. Of the nine islets in the area, the main rock (with the lighthouse) was the site of this study. Three locations on the West facing side of the island were selected for the belt transects. Two of the three locations were already marked with study pegs, pegs 5 and 6. The other site located in between peg 6 and peg 5 was not pre-marked and is therefore referred to as peg 5b1 for this and future studies. The peg locations are visible in the diagram of Race Rocks (figure 3). The transect photographs were taken consecutively from the waters edge (at low tide, approximately 0m tide) up perpendicularly to a point beyond the intertidal zone. This point varied with each transect as the intertidal zone varies with the height and slope.

image010

The author working with Halosaccion glandiforme at Race Rocks Ecological Reserve.

The Experimental and Control Groups Used  

In using three transect belts the correlation between variables is based on a wider average of results. By setting all three transects to begin at the zero meter tide level they can be accurately compared. In taking the transect belts in proximity to one another they are more likely to be of similar conditions. For example, all three transects were on the same side of Race Rocks facing the same swell and wind directions. Therefore more variables are eliminated that could make comparison amongst them more obscure.

Instruments used

In creating the belt transects, a measuring tape over 10 meters long with markers for every meter was placed along the tidal zone tight to the rocks. The photos were taken along the measuring tape with a Sony Digital Camera. The photos were taken from about 1 meter above the ground (approximately waist height). One photo would cover a section of about fifty centimeters. The photos were taken overlapping the previous so that they could be fit together appropriately at a later time.

With the measuring tape in place the next step was to measure the physical height of the rock slope along the transect line. Height was measured at every 50 cm interval. A meter stick would be held perpendicular to (for example) the 1 meter mark and the 1.5 meter mark. By placing a third meter stick with a liquid level attached perpendicular to the initial stick and butting up horizontally to the second stick the difference in height was obtained.

These values were recorded in a chart and then used in the making of a height and slope outline graph of the rock surface at the transect belts.  In collating the individual transect photos into one cohesive transect belt the computer imaging program Adobe Photo 4 was used. After splicing the pictures appropriately the meter marks were marked by a line and each cluster of Halosaccion glandiforme was outlined for further analysis (figure 5).

image013Figure 5. This image represents an example of a meter segment from the belt transect (taken from peg 6 at meter 4). The measuring tape is visible as yellow line at the top of the image. The meter segments can be seen marked by white vertical lines at the sides of the image.

Further computer analysis was carried out using Scion Image for Windows. This program provided the capability of measuring the population density of Halosaccion glandiforme along the transect belt. The area of each transect section was measured scaled to the according meter segment length. Each meter section on the belt transect varied slightly from the others, as did the area of each meter segment. This is because of discrepancies in the distance between the camera and the shore, a source of error that is hard to avoid completely with such rough rocky intertidal terrain. Finally the total area covered by Halosaccion glandiforme clusters, as seen outlined in orange (figure 6), was measured in each meter segment. When compared to the corresponding area measurements of their meter segment the population density of Halosaccion glandiforme could be determined as a percentage covering of that area.
image015Figure 6. This image is an example of a meter segment from a belt transect (peg6, meter segment 4). The orange outlines represent the area covered by Halosaccion glandiforme. With measurements scaled to the according meter as presented by the measuring tape the area of the meter segment and the Halosaccion coverage was calculated and compared.(For complete belt transect of peg 6 see appendix.)

Analysis of Data

Introduction

With the data obtained from the belt transects of the intertidal zone the results of height and population density were compiled into tables and subsequently graphs to represent the possible relation. Also the data for the effect of surface slope on population density was converted into a graph.

Findings that relate to Hypothesis 1 and 2

Transect meter segment Mean of height Percent coverage of area
1 0 0
2 35 0
3 60 0
4 85 3.4
5 115 60.9
6 145 89.6
7 170 1
8 165 14.1
9 200 0

Table 1.  Population density (in percent coverage of each meter segment) is shown in relation to the mean of vertical height of the corresponding meter segment from measurements at peg 5.

 

Transect meter segment Mean of Height Percent coverage of area
1 5 0
2 17 0
3 21 0
4 70 1.6
5 110 23.8
6 160 46.8
7 190 10.7
8 230 0

Table 2. Population density (in percent coverage of each meter segment) is listed in relation to the mean of vertical height of the corresponding meter segment from measurements at peg 5b1.

 

Transect meter segment Mean of height Percent coverage
1 2 0
2 50 0
3 132 26.6
4 170 49.5
5 190 0
6 203 7.1
7 210 1.4
8 230 0
9 258 0

Table 3. Population density (in percent coverage from each meter segment) is shown in relation to the mean of vertical height of the corresponding meter segment from measurements at peg 6.image019

Figure 7.  Graph of data from table one, peg 5. This figure represents the relation between population density (in percent coverage from each meter segment) and vertical height.image022

Figure 8. Graph of data from table 2, peg 5b1. This figure represents the relation between population density (in percent coverage from each meter segment) and vertical height.image025

Figure 9. Graph of data from table 3, peg 6. This figure represents the relation between population density (in percent coverage from each meter segment) and vertical height.image028

Figure 10. Graph of population density in relation to mean of intertidal vertical height with the three belt transects combined.

Statistical Analysis

Vertical height Percent coverage
70 1.6
85 3.4
110 23.8
115 60.9
132 26.6
145 89.6
160 46.8
165 14.1
170 49.5
170 1
190 25.4
190 10.7
200 0
203 7.1
210 1.4

From the compiled data the significant values, those values that fell within the extremes of the range of population occurrence (table 4), were used for further analysis by means of normal distribution calculations. To test the obtained values against the values expected of a normal distribution curve a graph (figure 11) was produced.   Of the fifteen obtained values for vertical height the mean is 154.33 meters. Therefore the standard deviation is 43.71 meters from the mean. In accordance with a normal distribution the first standard deviation (from the mean to 110.62 and 198.04 cm) is expected to hold 34% of the values. At the second standard deviation (at 110.62 cm and 241.75 cm) 13.6% of the values are expected to be present. Finally the third standard deviation (at 23.2 cm and 285.46 cm) is expected to contain 2% of the values. With 15 values in this data set (table 4) the expected number of values for each deviation can be calculated from the expected percent (table 5).
Expected percent 2% 13.6% 34% 34% 13.6% 2%
Expected 0.3 2.04 5.1 5.1 2.04 0.3
Observed 0 3 3 6 3 0

Table 5. Data table of expected normal distribution values and obtained distribution values used in conjunction to perform chi-squared test.

The chi-squared statistic was calculated from this table (table 5) as 2.864. When this number is checked with the chi-square distribution table at five degrees of freedom it falls bellow the critical 95 percent value of 11.1. Therefore, there is a 95 percent certainty that the results fit the expectations and that the obtained values represent a normal distribution.

Findings that relate to hypotheses 3 and 4

To obtain the angle of inclination for the terrain of the belt transects it was necessary to create three graphs (figures 12, 13, and 14) from the height measurements (see Instruments used) taken along the three transect lines. With the use of a protractor the angles were extrapolated from each graph (table 6). The angle measurements represent the mean of inclination for each meter segment from each transect. The calculated angles were compared to the percent coverage values that they represented. The angles are only calculated from the meter segments where a significant population density of Halosaccion glandiforme is present as slope will only be influential in the identified zone where H. glandiforme usually grows. Therefore it is mainly from the 100cm to 200cm vertical height sections of each transect belt that angle of inclination is measured.

Figure 11 (To be scanned and added later)

Figure 12 (To be scanned and added later)
Figure 13 (To be scanned and added later)
Figure 14 (To be scanned and added later)

Angle of inclination Percent coverage
10 25.4
10 49.5
15 46.8
15 89.6
15.5 60.9
20 23.8
20 10.7
21 26.6

Table 6. This data shows percent coverage in relation to the slope of the intertidal zone. Slope is measured to represent the mean slope of each meter transect segment. Slope is only taken from the segments of the three transects where there is significant population density of Halosaccion glandiforme. Therefore it is mainly from the 100cm to 200cm vertical height sections of each transect belt.image031

Figure 15. Graph of table 6, the relation between population density and intertidal slope.

Conclusions and Recommendations for Further Study

Interpretation and Implications of the Findings

The three individual transect graphs (Figures 7, 8, and 9) show a trend between the relationship of vertical intertidal height and the population density of Halosaccion glandiforme. The majority of Halosaccion glandiforme were found to grow between vertical heights of 100 cm and 200cm from the zero tide level. The highest recorded level of population density in each belt transect varied slightly, ranging from 145 cm vertically to 160 cm vertically. When the distribution of obtained values for height and percent coverage were compared to the normal distribution it was found that the observed results fit with 95% confidence of the expected. This suggests that the observed results are not distributed by chance occurrence but are due to a trend. The null hypothesis (Ho) is disproved and the hypothesis (Ha) is accepted, as a significant relation does exist between Halosaccion glandiforme population density and the vertical elevation on the tidal zone. It is important to place this in context however as the results are based on data from a close proximity as to decrease the variability of results. It is likely that H. glandiforme populations even on the opposite side of Race Rocks, subject to different lighting, swell action, and other possible conditions, could demonstrate a different set of results.   Therefore this part of the experiment could be repeated and produce similar distribution results in the same vicinity and perhaps exhibit similar trends in a wider range of locations.

The slope percent coverage relation graph needed more data taken at more specific intervals to produce significant results. Since this relation could only be studied at heights where predetermined growth was expected it limited the data to eight significant values.   The graph suggests that growth is optimum on gradients of 10 to 20 degrees with the higher population densities at 15 degrees. Yet this is not reliable as it is clear from the terrain profile graphs (figures 11, 12, and 13) that there is not a great level of variance in shoreline slope at the sites of the belt transects. There was no data collected from terrain that exhibited more extreme angles. Slope most likely affects the growing conditions of Halosaccion glandiforme however it is only one several variables that together create intertidal zonation and is therefore difficult to quantify. This study was not sufficient to come to any conclusions concerning the hypothesis and the hypothesis (Ha) is not accepted.

Recommendations

While trends were observed in this study there are many conditions that must be taken into account. The data was collected at Race Rocks in July and cannot be considered relevant for the whole year. While the H. glandiforme populations are anchored to the rock and are not likely to vary extensively in position over time, the data would be of greater accuracy if it were collected and compared over an extended time. The data collection, as previously stated, is from one limited range and has not been tested or compared with intertidal zones in any other area. For further study it would be interesting to compare growth trends in different locations. Also the percent coverage values, that were vital to findings, were calculated (using Scion Image pro.) are covered by the species. For a more in depth study, population density calculations would be more accurate if they took into account the size and number of the individual organisms. One of the most limiting factors encountered in the analysis resulted from the scale of the measurements taken. For both hypotheses the results were based on data collected from intervals of one meter along the belt transects. Any discrepancy or variation that occurred in vertical height, slope, or population density inside the transect meter segment could not be taken into account. If repeated the data analysis would be far more conclusive had measurements been taken at smaller intervals of, for example, 10cm instead of 100cm.   This study focused on the intertidal organism Halosaccion glandiforme and the effects of elevation and slope on its population density. There are, however, many other variables and species that affect and grow in the intertidal zone and could be considered and tested similarly to analyze and quantify the intertidal area.

References Cited

  1. Waaland, Robert J. 1977, “Common Seaweeds of the Pacific Coast”. J.J. Douglas Ltd. Vancouver.
  2. Stephenson, T. A. and Stephenson, A. 1949, “The Universal features of zonation between tide-marks on rocky coasts.” Journal of Ecology. 37, 289-305.
  3. Kanwisher, J. 1957, “Freezing and drying in intertidal algae.” Biological Bulletin 113: 275-285.
  4. Carefoot, Thomas. 1977, “Pacific Seashores A Guide to Intertidal Ecology”. J.J. Douglas Ltd. Vancouver.
  5. Kozloff, Eugene N. 1996, “Seashore Life of the Northern Pacific Coast”. University of Washington Press. Seattle.
  • Appendix
PHOTO STRIP OF BELT TRANSECT FROM PEG#5 PHOTO STRIP OF BELT TRANSECT FROM PEG#5b1 PHOTO STRIP OF BELT TRANSECT FROM PEG#6

 

Other Transect Files
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Haliotis kamtschatkana: Northern Abalone–The Race Rocks Taxonomy

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Cryptic Coloration of Abalone
Associated organisms with abalone.

Domain Eukarya
Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Mollusca
Class Gastropoda
Subclass Prosobranchia
Order Archaeogastropoda
Suborder Pleurotomariina
Family Haliotidae
Genus Haliotis
Species kamtschatkana
Common Name: Northern Abalone

Paulina and the PC Divers go in search of abalone for our population tagging program. The opportunity arises to demonstrate the escape response of the Northern Abalone, when it is presented with a Pycnopodia, the giant sunflower star.

Scott Wallace did research in 1997 and 1998 at Race Rocks with Pearson College divers. He studied the population dynamics of the Northern Abalone, Haliotis kamtchatkana. His research was done as part of a PhD thesis in Resource Management from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. In May of 2000, he returned to Race Rocks for a dive with Garry and Hana and an interview with Stephanie Paine and Director Julia Nunes for the Discovery Channel. In this video he demonstrates the measurement technique he used in his research

Link to Abstract of Scott’s Paper
Wallace, Scott, S. 1999, Evaluating the Effects of Three Forms of Marine Reserve on Northern Abalone Populations in British Columbia, Canada. Conservation Biology, Vol 13 No 4, August, 1999, pages 882-887.
An article by Scott Wallace:
Out of Sight, Out of Mind, and Almost out of Time out of sight out of mind–mpa

 

 

 

n 1998, we began a long term research program, initiated by Dr. Scott Wallace, on the population dynamics of the Northern Abalone
(Haliotis kamtschatkana).

For several years, the Pearson College divers monitored the population. In this video, Pearson College graduate Jim Palardy (PC yr.25) explains the process.

Carmen Braden and Garry find a Northern Abalone exposed at low tide in June in the intertidal zone of the east side of Race Rocks. They talk about its adaptations and the problem of overharvesting which has resulted in the endangered status.

This abalone was filmed by Felix Chow as it was rasping off diatoms from the glass wall of the aquarium. A small tongue or radula scrapes the algae from the walls.

General information:

Northern or Pinto abalones (Haliotis kamtschatkana) belong to the class of mollusks having a shell that consists of one piece. The genus they belong to is Haliotis, which means “sea ear” and refers to the flattened shape of the shell.

abaloneshellDescription:

Pintos are the smallest abalones and they are commonly about 4 inches long, however the biggest individuals can grow as big as 6 inches long (12 cm). The shell is oval or rounded with a large dome towards one end; it is also irregularly mottled and narrow. The colour of the shell exterior is mottled greenish brown with scattered white and blue. The shell has a row of respiratory pores through which the abalone takes in water and filters dissolved oxygen from the surrounding water with its gills. Water that passes through the body leaves through the respiratory holes carrying away waster from the digestive system. Pinto abalones have from 3 to 6 open holes in their shells. The shape of these respiratory holes is oval and they are raised. The colour of the pinto abalones’ epipodium is mottled greenish tan or brown. The tentacles are thin and the colour of them can vary from yellowish brown to green. Abalones’ muscular foot has a strong suction power that permits the abalone to clamp tightly to rocky surfaces.

Habitat:

Pinto abalones have definite preferences in locations and habits. Pinto abalones range from Sit ka, Alaska to Monterey, California. The only member of the genus is likely to be found in the Puget Sound region., on the open coast of Vancouver Island and Washington. Farther south pinto abalones become strictly sub tidal. Pinto abalones can be found clinging to rocks in kelp beds along open coastal environments that have a good water circulation. Their habitat is between the low inter tidal zone and sub tidally down to 70 feet (18 meters depth).

Life cycle:

The life cycle of an abalone begins from an egg. Abalone female releases millions of eggs, but only about 1% (or even less) of the offspring survive the many challenges they have to face before maturity. The eggs turn into a free living larva and then after drifting with the currents about a week the abalone larva settles to the bottom and begins to develop the adult shell form.

Predators:

Abalone have many predators. They get eaten by other animals (crabs, lobsters, octopuses, starfish, fish and snails) and crushed to the rocks by strong waves. The sea otter was traditionally one of the most significant predators of abalones, although they have not yet moved into the Strait of Juan de Fuca, from the re-introduction several years ago to northern Vancouver Island.

Nutrition:

Pinto abalones, as all abalones, are herbivores. They use their large, rough radulas (“tongues”) to scrape pieces of algae and other plant material from the rock surfaces. The adult abalone feeds on loose pieces of algae drifting in water. Abalones prefer large brown algae; mainly different kind of kelps and seaweed. The colour banding on many abalone shells is caused by the changes in the type of algae that the abalone has eaten.

Threats:

Pinto abalones used to be subject to sports and commercial fishery . They suffered from over harvesting and habitat loss and poaching. There is now a permanent closure on all abalone fishing on the B.C. Coast. For the Pacific North West Coast First Nations People, the beautiful shells of abalone were used for jewelry and abalone also were a seafood delicacy. They occur sub tidally and only in remote areas.

See the Abalone measurement and statistics exercise at RaceRocks:
http://www.racerocks.com/racerock/research/abalone/abalonemeas.htm

See our abalone exercise for middle school.

References Cited:

Kozloff, Eugene N., Marine Invertebrates of the Pacific Northwest, University of Washington Press, Seattle and London, 1996.

Kozloff, Eugene N., Seashore life of the Northern Pacific Coast, University of Washington Press, Seattle and London, 1996.

Meglitsch, Paul A., Invertebrate Zoology; second edition, Oxford University Press, 1972.

Snively, Gloria, Exploring the Seashore in British Columbia, Washington and Oregon, Gordon Soules Book Publishers Ltd., Vancouver/London, 1981.

http://www.pacificbio.org/ESIN/OtherInvertebrates/NorthernAbalone/NorthernAbalone_pg.html ( available at this URL in 20101)

http://www.sonic.net/~tomgray/describe.html

Other Members of the Phylum Mollusca at Race Rocks.

taxonomyiconReturn to the Race Rocks Taxonomy
and Image File
pearsonlogo2_f2The Race Rocks taxonomy is a collaborative venture originally started with the Biology and Environmental Systems students of Lester Pearson College UWC. It now also has contributions added by Faculty, Staff, Volunteers and Observers on the remote control webcams. Salla Vornanen, PC yr 27

 

Anthopleura elegantissima: Aggregating Anemone-Race Rocks taxonomy

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rm18910anthopleura

Anthopleura growing in a moist crevasse. Photo by Ryan Murphy.

One of the many organisms found at Race Rocks are sea anemones. Sea anemones belong to the phylum known as the Cnidaria, from the cnida or stinging cells that are present in this major group of animals that also include corals, jellyfish, hydroids, medusae, and sea fans. Sea anemones, corals and their allies form the class know as the Anthozoa. Anthopleura elegantissima is abundant on rock faces or boulders, in tide pools or crevices, on wharf pilings, singly or in dense aggregations (Smith and Carlton, 1975)

 

 

 

 

 

anthopleur       Link to extended essay of Santiago on Anthopleura distribution in the intertidal zone.

 

 

 

 

maliha   Link to  the extended essay by Maliha Zahid on Anthopleura-elegantissima-Distribution

 

 

 

 

Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Cnidaria
Class Anthozoa
Subclass Zoantharia
Order Actiniatia
Family Actiniidae
Genus Anthopleura
Species elegantissima
Common Name Aggregating Anemone

 

Characteristics:

  • The aggregating anenome is 2-5 cm in column diameter and 4-5 cm high in its clonal form.
  • The tentacular crown is roughly 8 centimeters in diameter.
  • The species presents numerous short tentacles, in five or more cycles, which are variously colored.
  • At the bases of its tentacles are bulbous structures where certain types of stinging capsules are concentrated.
  • The column is light green to white, and twice as long as wide when extended, with longitudinal rows of adhesive tubercles (verrucae)
  • Rock, sand, and shell fragments accumulate on anenome by adhering to the tubercles on the column.
  • The anenome is a green or olive colour depending on the algae living in its tissues.

Habitat:

It is a species characteristic of middle intertidal zone of semi protected rocky shores of both bays and outer coast from Alaska to Baja California.

Reproduction:

Anthopleura elegantissima reproduces both sexually and asexually. In sexual reproduction, ova are present as early as February and grow steadily until their release in July; the ovarian is then resorbed and new eggs do not appear until the following February. Sperm are released through the summer. The asexual reproduction occurs by longitudinal fission. This process results in aggregations or clones of anemones pressed together in concentrations of several hundred per square meter.

Ecological Niche:

  • Anthopleura elegantissima is a carnivore, feeding on small crustacians such as copepods, isopods, amphipods, and other small animals that contact the tentacles.
  • It is preyed upon by the nudibranch Aeolidia papillosa, which usually attacks the column, by the nail Epitonium tinctum, which attacks the tips of the tentacles, and by sea stars such as Dermasterias imbricata that can engulf an entire small anemone.
  • Moreover, in some anemones, small pink amphipods, Allogaussia recondita, make a home in the gastro vascular cavity. Two types of unicellular algae live in the tissues ofAnthopleura elegantissima in a symbiotic relationship. It is these algae that give the anenome its distinctive green or olive colour.

Interesting Further Studies:

  • Ecological niche study was conducted by Santiago, Pearson College Student 1998-2000../../research/santiago/santiago.htm
  • The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has investigated using aggregating anenome as a test for salinity. This bioindicator would be used to see the freshwater influx in ocean environments. http://es.epa.gov/ncer/fellow/progress/99/cohenri00.html
  • The behaviour of Anthopleura elegantissima at different depths.
  • The reproduction cycle of Anthopleura elegantissima.
  • Further study of aggregating anenomes at Race Rocks.

References:

  • Kozloff, Eugene N. Seashore Life of the Northern Pacific Coast. (Seattle: University of Washington Press, 1983).
  • Kozloff, Eugene N. Keys to the Marine Invertebrates of Puget Sound, the San Juan Archipelago, and Adjacent Regions. (Seattle: University of Washington Press, 1974).
  • Morris, R.H. etal. Intertidal Invertebrates of California. (Stanford: Stanford University Press, 1980).

 

Race Rocks Sustainable Energy System Development

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Canadian Hydrogen Conference June 17-21, 2001, Victoria, BC.
RACE ROCKS SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT
Taco Niet, G. McLean
Institute for Integrated Energy Systems, University of Victoria
Victoria, B.C., Canada V8W 3P6
Tel: (250) 721-8936 Fax: (250) 721-6323

Abstract
Race Rocks is a small archipelago located just Southwest of Victoria, British Columbia in the Juan de Fuca Strait. An important Beacon for Coastal Navigation in this busy area is located on Race Rocks, which is also home to a stunning variety of marine mammals and birds. The Race Rocks site has become Canada’s first Marine Protected environment and is now carefully managed by a group of interested partieScreen Shot 2014-02-24 at 7.48.10 PMs including Pearson College and The Canadian Coastguard. The environmental integrity of the site is often jeopardised to bring diesel fuel to the site and the noise pollution on the site due to the diesel generators is significant. IESVic has stepped forward to evaluate the potential of renewable energy sources on-site to power a sustainable energy system. A preliminary study was performed as an innovative graduate course at the University of Victoria that exposed students to sustainable energy system design. Our conclusion is that with Tidal currents of up to 3.7 m/s, average winds of 21.6 km/h and large amounts of solar insolation, there are ample renewable resources available on the site to develop a sustainable integrated energy system capable of providing reliable power for the site. Race Rocks is therefore ideally
suited to become a showcase for renewable energy generation. This paper outlines the results of the feasibility study, discusses the opportunities available at Race Rocks and examines the progress to date. Requirements for the implementation of a sustainable energy system on the site are discussed.
See the full PDF: tacopaper

Fouling on Sensor bar

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Already by March, the growth of algae on the environmental sensors and the aluminum bar has been prolific. Regular dives have to be made to keep the sensors free of algae. The predominant Genus here is Laminaria.