NOAA Teacher at Sea Blog

September 23, 2024November 5, 2024

Tonya Prentice: Sailing into New Horizons, August 26, 2024

NOAA Teacher at Sea
Tonya Prentice
Aboard NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow
August 8 – August 24, 2024

Mission: Northeast Ecosystem Monitoring Survey

Geographic Area of Cruise: Northwest Atlantic Ocean

Date: September 20, 2024

Weather Data from Bass Harbor, Maine
Latitude: 44.253636º N
Longitude: 68.34944º W
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Air Temperature: 15° Celsius (59° F)

Science and Technology Log

Tremont Consolidated School’s Drifter Buoys: Exploring Ocean Data in Real-Time!

I was so thrilled to learn that Tremont Consolidated School (TCS) had been given two drifter buoys, allowing our students to participate in a cutting-edge, real-world scientific endeavor. Through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Global Ocean Monitoring and Observing Program, our students will track these buoys as they gather crucial data from the ocean. This is a hands-on, dynamic opportunity that infuses real-time ocean observing system data into our science curriculum! NOAA Adopt a Drifter Program

Track Tremont Consolidated School’s drifting buoys here:
https://adp.noaa.gov/trackadrifter/tremont-consolidated-school

a screenshot from the webpage for Tremont Consolidated School's drifting buoy. It lists the adoption date (August 9, 2024) and the ID number (WMO #5301664.) It displays the Drifter ID card, with info on where it was deployed, and shows a graph of temperature readings over time, and a small map of the trajectory. — View of the tracking webpage for Drifter #1

What’s a Drifting Buoy? A drifting buoy, also called a drifter, is a floating data collection device that travels with ocean currents. These drifters are equipped to record various ocean parameters such as sea surface temperature, salinity, and wave height, all while transmitting this data hourly via satellite. The buoys provide valuable insights into oceanic conditions that impact weather forecasts, climate models, and even search and rescue operations.

Why Deploy One? The data collected by drifters offers key information that supports a wide range of scientific and practical applications. This data helps scientists understand how the ocean circulates, predict the movement of marine debris or oil spills, and make better weather predictions. By tracking our adopted drifters, TCS students will gain firsthand experience in how this scientific data is used to analyze the ocean and its far-reaching impacts.

Bringing Science to Life for TCS Students At TCS, students in our science classes will be tracking and recording the drifter buoys’ locations and analyzing the data collected. They will plot coordinates on maps, explore ocean currents, and make connections between the data they collect and global environmental patterns. This interactive project brings abstract science concepts into a tangible experience, encouraging inquiry, problem-solving, and environmental stewardship.

Tonya, wearing bright orange overalls, a life vests, and a hard hat, poses for a photo with the drifting buoy. in this view we mostly see the drogue (folded up tail.) it's a beautiful day with bright blue skies and sparking ocean in the distance. — Me deploying the first drifter buoy.

close up view of the buoy: a round blue ball, with stickers reading TREMONT CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL — Me deploying the first drifter buoy.

Personal Log

Sailing into New Horizons: A Farewell as a NOAA Teacher at Sea

As I sit here reflecting on my time aboard the NOAA research vessel, it’s hard to believe this chapter has come to an end. When I first applied to the NOAA Teacher at Sea program, I knew I would embark on a unique adventure, but I could never have imagined the profound impact this journey would have on me, both as an educator and as a person.

The early mornings watching the sunrise over the open ocean, the long hours of data collection, and the camaraderie of working alongside scientists and crew members—each moment has left an indelible mark. One of the highlights was observing the way oceanographic data is collected in real-time. Deploying CTDs, collecting plankton samples, and witnessing firsthand the vastness of our oceans reinforced the importance of understanding and protecting these ecosystems.

The lessons I’ve learned during this voyage are invaluable. I can’t wait to bring the excitement of real-world science into my classroom, showing my students that science isn’t just something they read about—it’s something they can experience. From tracking ocean currents to analyzing marine species, my students will have the opportunity to become oceanographers themselves, right in the classroom. I know the drifter buoy project, in particular, will captivate their imaginations.

This journey has rekindled my passion for inquiry-based learning and has reminded me that we, as educators, are lifelong learners. I’ve also come to understand the deep responsibility we have to educate the next generation about the importance of our oceans and the need for sustainable practices.

Of course, this experience would not have been possible without the incredible support of NOAA and the crew of the research vessel. Thank you to the scientists who patiently answered my endless questions and to the crew members who made me feel like part of the team. Your dedication to ocean science is inspiring.

As I sail back toward the shores of Maine, I’m filled with excitement for what lies ahead. I look forward to integrating what I’ve learned into my 7th and 8th-grade curriculum, empowering my students to become stewards of the environment. I also hope to encourage more teachers to take part in this incredible program.

Though this chapter is ending, I know it’s just the beginning of a deeper connection with the ocean and its mysteries. As Jacques Cousteau once said, “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” And I, for one, am happily caught in that net.

Group photo on the aft deck of the ship. The A frame towers in the background. There are fifteen people in this photo. Tanya is in the center of the front row, wearing her Teacher at Sea shirt and hat. — The Henry B. Bigelow Northeast Ecosystem Monitoring Survey Crew!

Four people stand on the bridge of the ship. In the foreground, Tanya, wearing her Teacher at Sea hat, stands near the control panel and smiles for the photo, while Ensign Remigio stands nearby, looking down. Two other NOAA Corps officers stand at a different control panel in the background but face the camera. — ENS Danielle Remigio (left) teaching me how to drive the ship.

Tanya, wearing orange overalls and a life vest over her Teacher at Sea t-shirt, kneels on one knee near the end of the bongo net. She holds a hose nozzle in her right hand and sprays the net into a bucket. She looks up to smile for the camera. — ENS Danielle Remigio (left) teaching me how to drive the ship.

In the computer lab, Chris and Tonya sit at a desk, both looking at the same computer screen. Tonya extends her right arm to write on a datasheet attached to a clipboard, while her left, resting below, holds an intercom microphone. — Chris Melrose (back), NOAA Research Oceanographer, and me (front) monitoring the CTD.

September 20, 2024September 20, 2024

Sam Garson: Alexa, What Fish Is This? September 20, 2024

NOAA Teacher at Sea

Sam Garson

Aboard NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow

September 6^th – September 25^th, 2024

Mission: 2024 Fall Bottom Trawl Survey

Geographic Area of Cruise: Northeast Atlantic Ocean

Date: September 20th, 2025

Weather Data:

Latitude: 35°31’43.1″N

Longitude: 75°16’18.3″W
Wind Speed: N 14.68 kt
Air Temperature: 22.9°C (73°F)

As a participant in NOAA’s Teacher at Sea program, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to see first-hand the innovative tools scientists use to study marine life. One such tool that has become indispensable is the Fisheries Scientific Computing System (FSCS), a specialized software developed to help scientists efficiently process the specimens brought up in trawl nets during research surveys. In this blog, I’ll take a closer look at how the FSCS software guides scientists through the complex task of collecting, analyzing, and recording biological data from the sea’s many inhabitants.

photo of a computer screen displaying the trawl monitoring software. we can see a graph of trawl depth over time. there are other readouts that are not legible. — Trawl Monitoring Software lets the Watch Leaders see if the parameters for a successful trawl were met.
Photo Credit: Sam Garson

What is FSCS?
The Fisheries Scientific Computing System (FSCS) is a powerful, custom-built software that NOAA scientists use to manage the massive amount of data gathered during trawl surveys. Every time a trawl net is brought aboard, scientists are faced with a diverse haul of marine specimens that need to be sorted, identified, measured, and cataloged. FSCS streamlines this entire process, ensuring that data are collected accurately and consistently across multiple surveys and locations.

photo of the computer screen at the cutting station that displays the FSCS program. Currently, the screen shows the list of names of possible science team members, and to the right, the assignments at this station: Cutter - Sabrina Dahl, Recorder - Sam Garson. at the base of the screen is a label that reads DO NOT SPRAY. — FSCS begins with the pair of scientists logging in with their roles of cutter or recorder. Photo Credit: Sam Garson

The FSCS software is designed specifically for the high-paced environment aboard research vessels, where time is of the essence. There are times during a busy string of trawl operations that a net’s worth of samples will barely be complete before the next net is already onboard ready to be dumped into the checker. It operates as a centralized platform, allowing scientists to record and track a variety of biological data, including species identification, lengths, weights, and even environmental conditions like water temperature and depth. By digitizing the data collection process, FSCS not only improves accuracy but also allows the information to be instantly accessible for analysis.

The Trawl Processing Workflow with FSCS
Once a trawl is hauled aboard, the real work begins. First, the catch is emptied into a sorting table called “the checker” where the catch is fed in manageable amounts onto the first conveyor belt and brought up into the sorting table. In the past, this sorting process involved manually recording data on paper, but FSCS has helped this step by providing real-time data entry directly into the system via rugged, waterproof touchscreens and computers.

Once the catch has moved down the sorting table it is processed by the Watch Leader into the system and then fed down the last conveyor belt to the 3 cutting stations. The Watch Leader is responsible for:

Species ID: Using guides and reference materials, scientists identify each species brought up in the trawl. This is important because in the paper log days, each container would be re-identified by the cutting team, and mistakes could be made with look-alike species. The system now removes this source of error.

a stack of three smaller screens, some with keypads, showing length and weight readings — Integrated scales and length measuring allow the team to move quickly and efficiently. Photo Credit: Sam Garson

From there, the specimens are processed one by one. For each fish or invertebrate species, scientists enter:

Length and Weight: FSCS is connected to precision scales and measuring boards, allowing data to be automatically uploaded into the system.
Sex and Maturity: For certain species, scientists may record sex and reproductive status to assess population dynamics.
Stomach Contents: For certain species the stomach volume and contents are examined and identified
Freeze Sample: Based on the research needs of scientists ashore and programs supported by the trawl, certain species are collected, bagged and frozen for further processing back ashore.

FSCS’s intuitive interface helps guide scientists through this complex process, ensuring no key steps are missed. It also automatically flags any anomalies, such as unusually large or small specimens, prompting scientists to re-check measurements for accuracy.

photo of a computer screen display showing a list of closed drop-down menus titled "Organism 133," "Organism 134," etc to "Organism 148" — Sometimes there is a LOT of processing to do! Photo Credit: Sam Garson

Why FSCS is Important for Marine Research
The FSCS software plays a critical role in ensuring the consistency and accuracy of data collection across NOAA’s bottom trawl surveys. Since the same software is used across different vessels and surveys, it standardizes the way data are collected, which is essential when comparing long-term trends in fish populations and marine ecosystems.

Furthermore, FSCS dramatically reduces the risk of human error, which can be a challenge when processing hundreds or even thousands of specimens in a single day. By integrating measurement devices directly into the software, FSCS ensures that all data are automatically logged without the need for manual entry, reducing errors and speeding up the overall workflow.

This efficiency is particularly important for scientists working in the field, where time is often limited. With FSCS, scientists can process specimens more quickly and move on to analyzing the data, which helps them make faster, more informed decisions about the health of fish populations and ecosystems. The software also allows for real-time data transfer, meaning that the data collected can be immediately uploaded to NOAA’s central databases for use in managing fisheries and conservation efforts.

FSCS and Data-Driven Decisions
The data collected through FSCS are vital for the sustainable management of marine resources. By providing real-time, high-quality data on fish populations, FSCS helps inform decisions about fishing quotas, endangered species protections, and ecosystem conservation measures. The software ensures that scientists have access to accurate, up-to-date information, which is crucial for making data-driven decisions that can have long-lasting impacts on the health of our oceans.

NOAA uses the data collected through FSCS to assess the status of important commercial fish species like cod, haddock, and flounder. These assessments along with commercial catch data form the basis for setting annual catch limits and developing regulations to prevent overfishing and ensure that fish populations remain healthy for future generations.

Personal Log

During my time aboard the NOAA Ship Henry Bigelow, I have had the opportunity to observe the close collaboration between scientists and crew members during trawling operations. Each person, from the captain navigating the ship to the scientists analyzing the catch, contributes their expertise to ensure the success of each trawl. It’s evident that communication and coordination are at the core of every operation, with everyone knowing their role and adapting as needed to changing conditions.

What stands out most is how the team handles the demanding work involved in trawling. The deck crew efficiently deploys and retrieves the nets, often under challenging conditions, while the scientists are quick to sort, measure, and record data on various species. The entire process is a well-practiced routine, yet there is constant attention to detail and safety. This level of cooperation is not just about completing the task but about ensuring that the data collected is reliable and valuable for ongoing research.

Watching the crew and scientists work together has given me a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in marine research. It’s not just the technical skills that matter but the ability to work as a cohesive team, problem-solve on the spot, and maintain a shared focus on the mission. This experience has been an eye-opening look at the dedication and collaboration required to conduct scientific research at sea.

What coding language does a fish use?

Sea++

Did You Know?

A fun fact about sea robins is that they have “legs” and “wings”! While they don’t actually have legs, sea robins possess spiny, modified pectoral fins that look and act like little legs, allowing them to “walk” along the ocean floor. These fins are used to feel for prey like crabs, shrimp, and small fish. Additionally, their large, wing-like pectoral fins can be spread out like a fan, making them look like they’re flying underwater—adding to their unique and quirky appearance!

highly detailed scientific photo of a preserved specimen of a sea robin against a black background — Northern Sea Robin Photo Credit: Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology

September 19, 2024September 19, 2024

Alexa Helm: Setting the Scene, September 17, 2024

NOAA Teacher at Sea

Alexa Helm

Aboard R/V Tiĝlax̂

September 10-20, 2024

Mission: Northern Gulf of Alaska Long Term Ecological Monitoring Project

Geographic Area of Cruise: Northern Gulf of Alaska – in transit from Seward Line to Prince William Sound

Date: September 17, 2024

Weather Data from the Bridge

Time: 2230

Latitude: 60.576°N

Longitude: 147.770°W

Wind: NE 25 knots

Air Temperature: 52°F

Air Pressure: 1000 millibars

Seas 3 ft

Science and Technology Log

Everyone loves a good story. Something I’ve been learning over the course of this cruise is that the Northern Gulf of Alaska ecosystem has a story to tell, and all of the researchers connected to the NGA LTER project are working together to figure out what exactly this story is. We know it’s a story about connections, resilience, richness, and productivity; there’s what seems like a never-ending list of characters deeply connected to this story, ranging from bacteria, plankton, and invertebrates to fish, whales and people, plus everything in between. And this story has conflict in the form of short- and long-term changes that have affected, are affecting, and will affect these characters and this place. And in this case, studying nutrients is key to learning more about the setting in which this story is taking place.

view over the railing of the lower back deck - there is a roof - of the sunrise. we can see piles of plankton nets on deck. — Sunrise over the water from the back deck on a particularly beautiful morning

Phytoplankton are important primary producers in the ocean, meaning they convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and nutrients into sugars and oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. Taking a closer look at nutrient levels within a marine ecosystem can tell you quite a bit about its potential productivity, as nutrients promote phytoplankton growth similar to how adding fertilizer to your garden boosts plant growth.

There are two main groups that researchers look at when studying nutrient levels: macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus and silicate, and micronutrients include iron, copper, cobalt, nickel, zinc and other trace metals. And as they’re used up by phytoplankton, nutrients become the limiting factor for productivity, as they mostly come from terrestrial sources.

Mette Kaufman is part of the chemical oceanography research group at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), and has been collecting samples from many depths at every CTD cast on this cruise. When collecting her samples from the Niskins, Mette runs the water through a super fine (0.4 micron!) filter in order to remove anything that might mess with the nutrient composition in the bottles between the time it’s collected and the time she processes it in the lab. And after she’s collected everything she needs, the samples go directly into the freezer.

a woman in a heavy float coat stands on the back deck holding a small water sample bottle in her left hand and a large plastic syringe in her right; she is squeezing the water in the syringe through a filter into the sample bottle. She pauses to look up and smile for the photo. on a shelf behind her are cotainers with more sample bottles. — Mette filtering water for one of her many, many samples

Back in the lab at UAF, Mette uses an instrument called an autoanalyzer to measure nutrient concentrations based on color. Yep, you read that right, she uses color to find out how much of each macronutrient is present in her samples. By adding chemical reagents to the samples and running everything through the autoanalyzer, she can look at the shade and intensity of the color that the sample turns to measure nutrient composition! She also uses a mass spectrometer to look at micronutrients in the samples too; by running all of her samples through the two instruments, she’s able to get both macro- and micronutrient levels throughout the water column.

And so thanks to these nutrient studies, the NGA team has learned that the setting for this story changes a bit depending on where you are and what time of year you’re there. In spring there’s an influx of nutrients coming into the NGA from freshly-melted rivers along the NGA coast, the largest being the Copper River, and Prince William Sound, and from there they catch a ride on the Alaska Coastal Current heading west. There’s also a lot of mixing happening slightly offshore at the shelf break, where nutrients from deeper waters get brought up towards the surface.

simplified map of the Gulf of Alaska, showing water in white and land in gray. a blue polygon at the northern tip of the Gulf is labeled "NGA." Points of interest on the map are labeled too: Kenai River, Susitna River, Seward, Copper River, Yakutat, Sitka. Bold arrows show the flow of water movement. In the center of the Gulf of Alaska is the Gulf of Alaska Gyre, whree water comes in from the west, loops north, and heads east back out of the Gulf. South of that is the North Pacific Gyre, where water comes in from the west but turns south along the west coast, meeting up with the California Current. In between the two gyres is a horizontal band labeled North Pacific Drift, all west to east. — Map of water movement in the northern Pacific Ocean. The NGA LTER area is outlined in blue (Photo Credit: NGA LTER)

And these nutrients vary seasonally too. In the early spring, there are a lot of nutrients entering the NGA ecosystem through the Copper River, and that water will stay nutrient-rich for just a little while because there isn’t quite enough sunlight yet to really get the phytoplankton going. As the days get longer, the phytoplankton community grows significantly, which is great news to the rest of the NGA’s inhabitants and means there’s a lot of energy transferring through the food web. As the summer bloom peaks, nutrient levels go down, and the phytoplankton community changes a bit depending on what nutrients are still available. And then productivity cools down quite a bit in the fall as the sunlight starts going away and we move into the winter months.

But another characteristic of this setting is that there’s a light layer of fog, as it’s shrouded in just a bit of mystery. What’s driving nutrient levels that enter the NGA through the Copper River? The research team had a feeling the Copper would be rich in silicate because of all the glacial flour and sediment, but they didn’t realize it’d be so rich in phosphorus and nitrogen as well. The answers may eventually be revealed with more research, but for now, who doesn’t love a good mystery!

Personal Log

Last night we were surprised with a pretty special treat: the aurora was out! We saw that the KP index was particularly high yesterday, and a couple of us on the day shift asked the night shift to wake us up if the predictions came true. Around 1:30, there was a soft knock on our stateroom door, and zooplankton researcher Emily Stidham poked her head in to say the lights were indeed out. We scrambled to put on some extra layers and our shoes, and made our way up to the wheelhouse.

view over the upper back deck at the sky showing splashes of neon green across almost the entire dark sky — Aurora dancing over the R/V *Tiĝlax̂*, turning our attention up towards the sky instead of down towards the water

This whole trip I’ve been pretty much constantly in awe of the vastness of this place. I’ve spent a good amount of time out on the water in Kachemak Bay and a little in Prince William Sound, but this has been my first time being fully surrounded by the sea since moving to Homer a few years ago. I stood up on the flying bridge for a chunk of the afternoon yesterday with seabird and marine mammal researcher Dan Cushing and flux researcher Tom Kelly during Dan’s survey, and it struck me just how surrounded we were. We were talking about just how much life is in the water around us, and how the samples they study are just a peek into the massive picture that is the Gulf of Alaska ecosystem; Dan mentioned that he enjoys having a 360° view from his surveying spot and asked how many plankton, viruses, bacteria, and larger animals might be surrounding us in that moment. I spun in a circle to take it all in and chew on his question, which made my brain short-circuit for a second. There’s so much all around us out here, and we’re not even that far off the coastline!

So I wanted to extend a little gratitude to the NGA – thank you for allowing us to visit, learn, appreciate, sample, wonder, and be in constant awe of you and all of the micro- and macroscopic life you support. I feel pretty lucky to get to know you in such a unique way, and am thoroughly appreciating every moment of it. And thanks for keeping us on our toes, whether it’s with the Dall’s porpoises splashing around off the stern or the 15-foot swells that test our balance and instantly humble us 🙂

Dall’s porpoises splashing along behind the ship

Did you know?

A cool result of the multidisciplinary work that the NGA LTER project is doing is that nutrient and phytoplankton researchers are able to work together and share what they’re finding. And in doing so, they’ve observed that different classes of phytoplankton use micronutrients at different ratios!

September 16, 2024September 16, 2024

Alexa Helm: Meet the CTD, September 15, 2024

NOAA Teacher at Sea

Alexa Helm

Aboard R/V Tiĝlax̂

September 10-20, 2024

Mission: Northern Gulf of Alaska Long Term Ecological Monitoring Project

Geographic Area of Cruise: Northern Gulf of Alaska – Seward Line

Date: September 15, 2024

Weather Data from the Bridge

Time: 1100

Latitude: 58.414°N

Longitude: 148.138°W

Wind: SW 30 knots

Air Temperature: 55°F

Air Pressure: 1003 millibars

Seas 12-15 feet

Science and Technology Log

I feel like any time I cook a meal that I’m really excited about, I manage to use just about every single thing in the kitchen. I never totally notice until it’s time to clean up, but then suddenly I find myself washing pots, pans, cutting boards, baking sheets, measuring cups, ladles, spatulas, mixing bowls, knives, the food processor and just about every spoon in the drawer. And it’s always fully worth it because skipping any one of those steps just to save on a couple minutes of cleaning would make the end result just slightly less spectacular.

This was the thought that kept going through my head while we were mobilizing at the Seward Marine Warehouse and started unpacking gear as it was loaded onto U.S. Fish & Wildlife’s R/V Tiĝlax̂. We had to bring everything aboard in waves because there wasn’t space for it all at once. It was pretty incredible to see all of the supplies, gear and instruments that would be needed throughout the 10-day cruise, and my brain was spinning as I tried to imagine what all of it would be used for.

on the covered, wooden back deck of the ship, we see stacks of locked plastic bins, carrying cases, and at least one cardboard box. behind the stack is the CTD rosette. we can see the pilings over another dock, and in the far distance, mountains, over the open railing. — Gear staged on the back deck, waiting to be unpacked

The more we unpacked and got everyone settled into their stations, the more it really sunk in that not only is all of this gear fascinating and cool (and maybe just a little heavy), but it is all extremely critical for the multifaceted research that the NGA LTER team is conducting. As I mentioned in my last post, there are many different disciplines that are being represented by the researchers aboard the ship, including productivity and phytoplankton, zooplankton, nutrients, dissolved oxygen, particulate matter, inorganic carbon, seabird and marine mammal surveys and physics. All of these pieces are important to take into consideration in order to paint a full picture of the NGA ecosystem’s richness and resiliency. Kind of like how deciding not to sauté your veggies before adding them to a soup will change the entire flavor profile, something would seriously be missing if any one of these disciplines and researchers were to not be a part of the NGA LTER project! I know, it’s definitely a stretch to compare making soup to the research happening aboard the ship, but it’s a fun comparison to make.

Every year, R/V Tiĝlax̂ usually travels 15,000 – 20,000 nautical miles and keeps a pretty busy schedule. It’s primarily used by the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge to sail out to the Aleutian Islands, and will also head to Southeast Alaska, the Bering Sea, and the Gulf of Alaska depending on the particular mission and what other institutions are also using it for research.

This past winter, R/V Tiĝlax̂ went through a big ole upgrade to keep up with its busy schedule and make sure everything is staying in top shape, so there were a couple of things that needed to get sorted out and tested before we could get going. In addition to the new A-Frame (more on that later), the ship essentially got an entirely new wheelhouse complete with brand new systems and instruments. So new, in fact, that the research equipment had a hard time connecting to them! Eventually the crew and science team got it all figured out, and the cable we were waiting on for the winch came in, which meant it was time to head to a nearby station called RES 2.5 out in Resurrection Bay the evening of September 11th.

view of blue skies, fluffy white clouds, and calm blue seas through the row of window surrounding the wheelhouse. inside, we see mounted computer monitors, a keyboard, and radio equipment. — View from the wheelhouse

It didn’t take long to get to the station, and once we arrived it was time to start the full round of sampling and try out the ship’s brand new hydraulic A-Frame. This was the part that everyone was most excited (and maybe a little nervous) about, as this is how the nets and CTD are moved between the deck and the water. Previously, R/V Tiĝlax̂ had a fixed line that hung off the stern that sometimes made deploying and retrieving equipment a little tricky, so this new A-Frame seems like it’s quite the game changer. It’s all really exciting, but there’s also a certain degree of uncertainty surrounding just how it’s going to work since it is brand new. Plus the A-Frame and winch are controlled separately, so there’s also a piece of wondering what it will be like to maneuver both things at the same time.

view over the upper aft deck of the new A-frame, painted blue and mounted at the very back. — The new hydraulic A-Frame, AKA the ultimate gamechanger

And the whole process went swimmingly! The crew and researchers worked together to get the CTD off the ship and into the water smoothly and safely. And then the CTD was off to start collecting data and samples at the first station of the cruise.

I’ve mentioned the CTD a couple times so far, but haven’t actually explained what it is yet. Every instrument on the ship is cool and important, but the CTD is really cool and important – without it, we wouldn’t be able to collect water samples and get real-time readings of all sorts of physical oceanography-related data points. So without further ado, I’d like to introduce you to a new friend of mine: the CTD!

the CTD rosette on the wooden deck. it's a large white cylindrical metal frame containing a circle of tall gray water sampling bottles as well as the CTD probe itself and other instruments. a woman in an orange coat, yellow rain pants, boots, and gloves leans in from the side of the image to start collecting a water sample from one of the bottles — The CTD, rosette, and Niskins, freshly pulled up from a cast. Researcher Audrey Piatt is attaching a hose to one of the nozzles to collect a sample

This whole thing is called the CTD, but the CTD device itself is only a piece of it. The rosette is the metal frame that holds everything together, and the gray cylinders are all Niskin bottles, which are used to take a sample from a super specific spot in the water column by closing off both ends of the bottle at the click of a button. At the bottom, there are a bunch of different instruments that measure all sorts of things as the unit moves through the water column. And then get this: the CTD gets hooked up to a cable that’s run through the winch, which is connected to another cable that comes down into the lab and to a computer. Meaning all of the readings taken by the instruments are transmitted instantly to the computer system in the lab!

CTD stands for conductivity (or salinity), temperature, and depth, which are some of the many readings this device collects as it moves through the water column. Isaac Reister is a researcher involved with the project, and once the CTD is deployed, he’s usually the one at the computer watching data come in from the CTD. He was kind enough to answer my never-ending list of questions about the CTD, and he showed me which instruments are responsible for collecting which data during casts.

a man in a bright orange coat sits at a computer desk with his right hand on the mouse. the computer screen displays some graphs - we cannot read them in any detail. the computer is surrounded by a mess of cables. — Isaac showing me what the CTD is transmitting from the water. He’s watching the altimeter, which uses acoustics to determine how far away the CTD is from the bottom

This is what Isaac’s screen looks like as the CTD moves through the water column. As you can see, there’s a lot going on! The graph on the far right shows how temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and fluorescence change based on depth. The middle top shows nitrate levels and water density, and the one below shows photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) and beam transmission. Isaac explained that PAR is basically measuring the specific wavelength of light that phytoplankton can use to photosynthesize, and basically tells us how deep the photic zone goes. And then the beam transmission scans for particles in the water and tells us how turbid, or cloudy, the water is.

All of the data that the CTD collects is important for contextualizing the water samples taken from the Niskin bottles. Physics, biology, and chemistry are three broad disciplines that all go hand in hand when studying the NGA and the marine environment in general. The CTD collects a bunch of information about how physics and chemistry change throughout the water column, which can then be used to inform what’s happening on the chemical and biological levels. Without the CTD’s data-collecting superpowers and the Niskin’s ability to collect water samples from specific depths, this research would look WAY different!

Personal Log

I feel like I’m settling in quite nicely to life aboard R/V Tiĝlax̂. We’ve hit a solid stride of collecting samples at three or four stations every day, and I’m finding that I really love the feeling of getting rocked to sleep by the waves. I don’t love the rocking while I’m trying to shower, but at least it’s helping me laugh at myself a bit. I’m also learning I have a lot more tiny muscles in my ankles and feet than I previously thought, and boy are they getting a lot of use as I try to keep myself stable while the boat rocks in the waves.

The science team and ship crew are all so unbelievably knowledgeable, kind, and welcoming, and have been so patient with me while I ask millions of questions. It’s pretty incredible to have so many people who are all so passionate about what they do together in the same space, and I’m thankful they don’t mind taking time to share what they’re doing with me. I can’t wait to keep learning from them for another week!

Did you know?

There are three species of albatross that can be found in the Gulf of Alaska, and yesterday we saw all three! They are the Black-footed Albatross, the Laysan Albatross, and the Short-tailed Albatross, with the Short-tailed being the least common; their global population is only around 4000 total. The shelf break in the Gulf is an especially important feeding ground for these large seabirds, as well as for many other animals that call these waters home. This is because the shelf is an area of upwelling, where nutrient-rich waters from the deep rise up to the surface and become accessible to all of the life up top.

photo taken through a telescope of a group of birds floating on top of the water — The three species of albatross, all in one photo! The darker (and most numerous) is the Black-footed, the white and gray albatross to the right is the Laysan, and the slightly more mottled with the bubblegum pink bill towards the left is the Short-tailed

September 16, 2024September 25, 2024

Sam Garson: What’s in a Name, September 15, 2024

NOAA Teacher at Sea

Sam Garson

Aboard NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow

September 6–25, 2024

Mission: Leg 1 of Fall Bottom Trawl Survey

Geographic Area of Cruise: Mid-Atlantic Ocean

Date: September 15, 2024

Weather Data from the Bridge:

Latitude: 36°57’37.2″N
Longitude: 76°03’19.6″W
Wind Speed: NE 22 kt
Air Temperature: 22.8°C (73°F)

Science and Technology Log

The oceans are home to a huge variety of fish species, many of which remain understudied. But thanks to the work of scientists like Matthew Girard and Katherine Bemis, we are gaining deeper insights into marine biodiversity through innovative approaches in fish genomics and imagery. In this blog, I will highlight their cutting-edge research, which merges advanced technologies with traditional fieldwork, ultimately providing critical data for understanding fish species and their role in the ecosystem.

Part of the team on this leg of the cruise are two scientists from the Smithsonian National Museum and NOAA National Systematics Lab. Katherine Bemis and Matthew Girard are prominent scientists in marine research, each bringing unique expertise to the study of fish. Katherine Bemis, based at the Smithsonian National Systematics Lab, specializes in ichthyology—the study of fish. Her work primarily focuses on taxonomy, systematics, and evolutionary biology. Matthew Girard, also deeply involved in marine research, works alongside Bemis, bringing technical expertise in genomics and digital imaging of fish species. Together, their collaboration has allowed for more detailed cataloging and understanding of fish species than ever before, blending traditional identification methods with modern genomic technology and high-resolution imagery.

a combined image on a black background: in the lower portion, we see a highly magnified image of a preserved specimen of a fish. center, as if its swimming toward us, is a detailed computer-generated image of the same fish swimming toward the viewer, but alive, with pectoral fins outspread, and long ribbon-like additional fins — Matthew’s work looks at using genomics to identify larval stages of fish. Photo Credit: Matthew Girard

Genomics has become extremely important in the study of marine science. By sequencing the DNA of fish species, Bemis and Girard are able to delve into the genetic blueprint of marine organisms. This genomic data provides key insights into species identification, evolutionary relationships, and population dynamics.

For instance, genomics helps differentiate between species that are visually similar, a task that can be challenging through morphology alone. It also enables scientists to track genetic diversity within populations, which is essential for conservation efforts and for predicting how species might adapt to environmental changes.

This work is also critical in the use of eDNA. Once you extract DNA from the environment you need a database to compare your samples against in order to identify the source of that DNA. Girard’s work at the Smithsonian is key to building out that database to further allow the technology of eDNA to continue to advance our ability to sample and track biology in the aquatic environment.

a graphic in the shape of a wheel with lines radiating out from the center and segmenting as species diverge. there are hundreds, branching many times and terminating as dots (each representing one species) on the outer ring of the circle. most dots are yellow, some are blue or purple. there is no text. — Phylogenic relationships are part of the body of work benefiting from genomics. Photo Credit: Matthew Girard

Through their work, Bemis and Girard have contributed to a growing database of fish genomes, which not only advances scientific understanding but also aids in the development of sustainable fisheries practices. Their research helps identify populations that may be at risk of overfishing or those that are particularly vulnerable to climate change. Genomics also provides critical data for protecting endangered species, by better understanding their genetic health and resilience.

In addition to genomics, Bemis and Girard utilize cutting-edge digital imagery techniques to capture detailed, high-resolution images of fish specimens. These images, taken with specialized equipment, allow for the preservation of visual data without the need to retain large physical collections. This is especially valuable for rare or endangered species, as it minimizes the need for destructive sampling while still providing detailed anatomical information.

Using 3D imaging technologies, Girard has been able to create digital models of fish that offer unprecedented detail in studying their external features. These models are used for both scientific analysis and educational purposes, allowing researchers and the public to explore the physical traits of various fish species with incredible accuracy. These images can also be archived and shared globally, making them a critical resource for future research. Furthermore, fish imagery helps to bridge the gap between fieldwork and laboratory analysis. With high-resolution images, researchers can collaborate across institutions and countries, comparing specimens in real time. This visual data aids in species identification, the study of evolutionary traits, and understanding how fish adapt to different environments.

three people, wearing dark sweatshirts, stand the lab with a makeshift photo booth. a camera on a tripod covered in a black cloth is set facing away from this camera. a glass tank contains a mounted fish. behind that tank is a black curtain. bright lights on stands are mounted to illuminate the fish. the man in the foreground faces away from our camera, working on something off to his left. — Bemis and Girard preparing a sample to be photographed in high resolution for addition to their cataloguing efforts.
Photo Credit: Sam Garson

The Bigger Picture
Katherine Bemis and Matthew Girard’s work demonstrates how science is evolving to meet the challenges of understanding and conserving marine life in the 21st century. By integrating genomics and digital imagery, they are contributing to a growing body of knowledge that is critical for managing marine biodiversity. Their research supports NOAA’s broader mission of ensuring the sustainability of our oceans by informing policy decisions, fisheries management, and conservation efforts. As climate change and human activity continue to impact marine ecosystems, their work is more relevant than ever.

Looking Forward
As I learn more about the technology and techniques used in marine science, I am excited to bring these insights back to my classroom. Katherine Bemis and Matthew Girard’s approach to fish genomics and imagery not only showcases the power of collaboration but also highlights the importance of merging traditional and modern scientific methods. This research underscores the fact that there is still so much to discover about the creatures that inhabit our oceans, and I look forward to sharing this journey of exploration and discovery with my students. I also find the connection between the science of the catalogue and the artist nature of the documentation to be really amazing. Seeing the high level imagery and beauty of the photos is something that again reminds me the importance of arts being present and used in science.

a highly detailed photo of an unidentified fish specimen against a black background — Example of the results of the photographic techniques used by Kate and Matt in the shipboard photo studio they have developed over the last 5 years. Photo Credit: Smithsonian

Personal Log

The nature of ship life can be unpredictable and with so many moving parts there are inevitable challenges. One of the things that has always impressed me is the ability of professional mariners to handle every challenge that comes their way and this cruise has proved to be no exception to the rule. A sudden issue in the power of our drive engines pushed the engineering team to respond, and troubleshoot, diagnose and repair the issue. This led to the ship needing to sail into Norfolk, VA for shoreside support in their repairs. This unexpected port call allowed us to be hosted by Erik Hilton at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science to view their collection of fish specimens.

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), established in 1940, is a research and educational institution located in Gloucester Point, Virginia, and is part of William & Mary. VIMS focuses on the study of coastal and marine environments, conducting research on fisheries, ecosystem health, and the effects of climate change on marine systems. One of its notable areas of work includes the collection and study of fish specimens, contributing to the understanding of fish populations and biodiversity in the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. These collections are used in long-term monitoring efforts and provide valuable data for research and management decisions. VIMS also provides scientific advice to government agencies and industries for sustainable resource management. Alongside its research initiatives, VIMS offers graduate programs in marine science and engages in public outreach to inform and educate the community on marine and coastal issues.

a man with glasses and a large gray beard stands in a collection room, holding something unidentifiable in his right hand, and his left hand outward as he explains something to an audience out of sight. behind him we see shelves of sample jars. — Eric Hilton explaining the history and scope of the VIMS collection samples

a man looks down at a preserved shark specimen in what appears to be a metal trawl or bin filled with a clear liquid - water, alcohol, formalin? on top is a metal shelf containing empty bottles; two other men speak with each other in the background — Eric Hilton explaining the history and scope of the VIMS collection samples

As we head into week 2 of the trawl the aspects of working at sea are all evident. We are planning around unpredictable weather, a complex mechanical and electrical system and the needs to get all of our data and sampling completed. We are headed into some of the diverse areas that should yield some diverse trawls and specimens so stay tuned!

Sam, wearing a t-shirt and bright orange overalls, stands in the wet lab holding a large tilefish up for a photo — Sam Garson during watch with a Tile Fish
Photo Credit: Sabrina Dahl