Deep Water Survey, 2008 Celtic Explorer 9th – 22nd September 2008

Abstract

The Marine Institute and the National University of Ireland, Galway conducted a deepwater survey in September 2008. This survey was the third in a series, carried out on the RV Celtic Explorer, gathering fishery and hydrographic data on the continental slope to the north and west of Ireland, and on the Porcupine Bank. The survey objectives were to collect biological data on the main deepwater fish species and invertebrates. Fishing hauls were carried out at four depths, 500m, 1000m, 1500m, and 1800m, in each of three distinct Areas. Six comparative tows were carried out with Scottish Fisheries Science Service scientists aboard the RV Scotia. CTD data was collected along transects in each area. Cetacean observations were carried out by an observer from the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group. The fisheries data collected will provide information for assessment of deepwater stocks, and will provide a time series for CPUE. 122 species of fish were identified, with a further 8 taken ashore for further work.