Transcript for Oceanfloor Legacy, segment 09 of 14

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The sampling team includes several biologists who will conduct bird and mammal counts for the E. P. A's environmental impact statement. Another important crew member is an E. P. A. radiation specialist who will monitor all equipment and samples that come up from the sea floor.

Transect a couple. Why don't you transect to characterize the bottom as far as bedrock nests and biological activity?


An important tool used throughout the research is a seismic reflection system. Like the sonar fish, it sends out and receives a pulse of sound. Instead of a wide swath, it records the profile of the sea floor directly beneath the Farnella. The profiles provide constant depth information which helps locate the ship over features on the sea floor. They also help distinguish underwater hills and valleys from other features on the sonar images.