Zooplankton diel vertical migration and distribution relative to Cross Seamount using 75 kHz acoustic and net tow surveys

Abstract

This project attempts to quantify and explain differences in zooplankton distribution and abundance on the top and sides of Cross Seamount, Hawaii. Zooplankton were collected with nets at different depths during both day and night tows. Properties of the water column (temperature, salinity, and chlorophyll content) were also measured at these sites. Acoustics were used to collect data about currents around the seamount. The effects of seamounts on zooplankton movement and abundance were assessed by comparing on- and off-summit/seamount samples. Zooplankton were slightly less abundant on the seamount flanks compared to background levels found away from the seamount.