NOAA Teacher at Sea
Ashley Cosme
Aboard NOAA Ship Oregon II
August 31 – September 14, 2018
Mission: Shark/Red Snapper Longline Survey
Geographic Area of Cruise: Gulf of Mexico
Date: September 9, 2018
Weather data from the Bridge:
- Latitude: 28 08.58N
- Longitude: 92 24.27W
- Wind speed: 8.66 Knots
- Wind direction: 143 (from Southeast)
- Sky cover: Scattered
- Visibility: 10 miles
- Barometric pressure: 1011.96 atm
- Sea wave height: 0-0.5 feet
- Sea Water Temp: 30.4°C
- Dry Bulb: 28.7°C
- Wet Bulb: 25.4°C
Science and Technology Log:
In addition to collecting data on the many species of sharks in the Gulf of Mexico, this survey also collects data that will go towards assessing the population of red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus). One piece of evidence that is collected from the red snapper is their two distinct otoliths. Otoliths are structures that are used for balance and orientation in bony fish. One fascinating characteristic of the otolith is that they contain natural growth rings that researchers can count in order to determine the age of the fish. This information is important for stock assessment of the red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico.
Personal Log:
I would have to say that the hardest part about being out at sea is not being able to see Coral and Kai. I miss them so much and think about them nonstop. Coral is at a very curious stage in her life (I hope the curiosity stays with her forever) and I cannot wait to get home and tell her about all the animals that I have been lucky enough to witness on this adventure. Kai is just the sweetest little boy and I can only imagine the way he will react when I get home.
I am very busy on the boat and when there is down time my team and I are getting shark lessons from the incredibly intelligent Chief NOAA Scientist, Kristin Hannan, or we are in the movie room catching up on all the Annabelle movies. It is almost impossible to get scared while aboard a ship. It may seem that many things could go wrong, but the lights are always on and someone is always awake. It is the perfect environment to watch any horror film because this atmosphere makes it much less scary.
Probably the scariest thing that is happening on this boat is the amount of weight I have gained. All of the meals are delicious and they come with dessert. It is kind of nice to not have to worry about going to the gym or staying on a normal routine. Life is always so hectic day to day when I am at home, but being out here on the water gives me time to relax and reflect on the amazing people I have in my life that made this opportunity possible.
I am sad to report that the Chicago Bears lost tonight to Greenbay, but I did show support for my team! I think the best part of the day was when I was on the bow of the boat and Kristin announced over the radio that the Bears were winning 7 to 0. It is exciting being out here seeing everyone cheer for their fantasy team, as well as their home town team.
Animals seen:
Red Snapper (Lutjanus campechanus)
King Snake Eel (Ophichthus rex)
Bonnethead Shark (Sphyrna tiburo)
Pantropical Spotted Dolphin (Stenella attenuate)
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark (Rhizoprionodon terraenovae)
Blacknose Shark (Carcharhinus acronotus)
Blacktip Shark (Carcharhinus limbatus)
Gulf Smooth-hound Shark (Mustelus sinusmexicanus)
