Final days, final dives…
Day Eight‘s dive was right on the money. Cinematographer Norbert Wu filmed Chief Scientist Paula Whitfield as she discovered the temperature sensor from last year’s survey, right next to the anchor line.
“I retrieved a temperature sensor from a site that is one of the farthest from land, and the temperature did not go below 60F all winter long,” Paula noted. “This is definitely warm enough for year-round survival of lionfish and other tropical species.”
Scientists have wondered whether the summertime expansion of the lionfish range can be maintained during the cold winter months. Apparently in some spots, along the warm Gulf Stream currents, they can – even at depths of 145 feet.
In addition to the success of the ‘treasure hunt’ for the temperature sensor though, the ability to return to the exact same location year to year is, in itself, a plus for scientists -- as it provides the most accurate picture of the lionfish ‘invasion’.
“But no more: the densities are climbing. We saw lionfish at all these locations.”
That pretty much summed up the preliminary findings of the 2006 lionfish research cruise aboard the R/V NANCY FOSTER. Lionfish seem to be here to stay.
“All in all a very successful cruise,” said Paula after the final dive of the day. “We’ve collected 120 lionfish specimens, for reproductive, diet and other life history examination.
“We’re heading back tomorrow after one last dive,” she smiles, contemplating what last potential discovery on that day, may be revealed.
[Editor's Note: Photograph of Paula Whitfield by Curtis Callaway]