Scientists in Australia have found a unique way to explore the ocean’s seabeds by enlisting the help of sea lions. These endangered Australian sea lions were equipped with video cameras to capture footage of the benthic zone, the lowest ecological zone in the ocean, which is often unexplored. The team was able to identify previously unknown sea lion habitats through this innovative approach.
Traditional methods of exploring the seabed, such as using remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs), can be expensive and logistically challenging. By utilizing sea lions as camera crews, researchers were able to cover large areas of the seabed in a cost-effective and efficient manner. The lightweight cameras were attached to the sea lions’ fur using neoprene material, allowing them to move freely without being hindered.
Through this study, the team identified six different benthic habitats, including macroalgae reef, bare sand, and invertebrate boulders. Machine learning models were then used to predict habitat areas across the continental shelf of southern Australia based on environmental factors collected over 21 years. This method provided valuable insights into the structure and distribution of these habitats.
The footage captured by the sea lion camera crews revealed habitats that had not been previously documented in South Australia. This information is crucial for understanding the seabed environment and can help in the conservation efforts of endangered marine species. The decline in marine populations over the past few decades highlights the importance of innovative approaches like this to survey and assess marine environments.
By viewing the marine environment from a predator’s perspective, researchers were able to gain a deeper understanding of the benthic environment and create a comprehensive map of the seabed. This study demonstrates the potential of using animal-borne cameras to explore uncharted areas of the ocean and increase our knowledge of marine ecosystems.
