
Use of different imaging systems for ROV-based mapping of complex benthic habitats (MSc thesis)
This study used mini-ROVs with underwater hyperspectral imagers (UHI) and high-definition RGB cameras to map benthic habitats in Karihavet, Nordmøre, revealing unique cold-water species. Significant changes in salinity and temperature were noted at 25 meters depth, with Arctic species like Chlamys islandica appearing beyond 24 meters. The productive zone from 20-30 meters depth was rich in biodiversity, characterized by red coralline algae and bioclastic sediments. The study integrated data from physical samples and optical methods, including RGB-ROV video analysis, UHI, and underwater photogrammetry (UPG), which created detailed 3D models for habitat mapping. This approach demonstrated the potential of ROV-UHI mapping for understanding species distribution and productivity in these environments.
