Northeastern Gulf of Mexico Coastal and Marine Ecosystem Program: Ecosystem211 Monitoring, Mississippi/Alabama Shelf; Third Annual Interim Report

摘要

This Annual Interim report summarizes the third year (Phase 3) of a four-year211u001eprogram to characterize and monitor hard bottom features on the 211u001eMississippi/Alabama outer continental shelf. Phase 3 included the last of four 211u001emonitoring cruises that revisted nine sites. Cruise M4 was conducted in two legs, 211u001ein April 1999 and July-August 1999. Two mooring servicing cruises also were 211u001econducted, in October 1998 and January-February 1999. Monitoring program 211u001ecomponents included geological characterization, sediment dynamics, geochemistry, 211u001ephysical oceanography and hydrography, hard bottom communities, fish communities, 211u001eand two companion studies (micro-habitat studies and epibiont recruitment). For 211u001eeach component, the report presents study retionale, field and laboratory 211u001emethods, results to date, and discussion.