Document Type
Report
Abstract
The primary objectives were: 1) to collect marine invertebrates and algae for discovery of novel compounds with therapeutic potential; 2) to document the biodiversity of the deep-water and shallow-water benthic communities with videotapes, 35-mm photographs, and taxonomic museum specimens using the JOHNSONSEA-LINK II (JSL) Research Submersible and scuba; 3) to isolate microorganisms from macroinvertebrate and sediment samples; and 4) to procure specimens of sponges for cell culture studies. A total of 72 collection sites (31 submersible and 41 scuba/snorkel dive sites) were studied during 17 operation days. The expedition resulted in the collection of 567 samples of benthic macroinvertebrates and algae from deep water (>50 m) using the JOHNSON-SEA-LINK II Research Submersible and from shallow water «50 m) using scuba and snorkel. These samples will be used for taxonomic studies and biomedical research. Duplicate museum voucher specimens were made for each species and duplicate in-situ photographs and submersible videotapes were made for most samples. These will sent to the Director General de Pesca y Acuicultura [DIGEPESCA] of Honduras. In addition, the Final Cruise Report will be submitted to the U.S. Department of State and to DIGEPESCA within 12 months of completion of the cruise. Two biologists from the Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture were designated as representatives for Honduras during the cruise. Mr. Luis Morales, Head of the Research Department for DIGEPESCA, participated and collaborated with us during the cruise. Mrs. Gabriela Pineda of DIGEPESCA was unable to participate.
Publication Date
12-15-1997
Recommended Citation
Reed, John K.; Pomponi, Shirley A.; Hanisak, Dennis M.; Wright, Amy E.; Janda,, Kathleen E.; Pitts, Tara P.; Willoughby, Robin; Killday, K. B.; Robertson, Lynn; Lopez, Jose V.; Kelly-Borges, Klaus,; Overdorf, Laura S.; and Monaghan, Pat, "PRELIMINARY CRUISE REPORT: SUBMERSIBLE AND SCUBA COLLECTIONS IN THE COASTAL WATERS OF HONDURAS, THE BAY ISLANDS: BIOMEDICAL AND BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH OF THE BENTHIC COMMUNITIES WITH EMPHASIS ON THE PORIFERA, ALGAE AND GORGONACEA." (1997). Faculty Scholarship. 56.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/faculty_papers/56
Comments
Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Technical Report #84