The Artificial Reef Society of British Columbia (ARSBC) this week announced Project ABIS, an academic science study that will observe and report marine species recruitment on the former HMCS Annapolis.
The ARSBC has consulted with marine academics and advisors over the past few years on a plan to collect data on the biological changes that will take place on the Annapolis over time, and have now come up with a dedicated team of academics and citizen scientists to bring this about.
Participants in the study include the Vancouver Aqua-rium, Squamish Nation, the Marine Life Sanctuaries Society and BC Parks. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has also expressed interest in the project and are presently discussing their level of participation.
Creation of the Annapolis artificial reef was implemented with several goals in mind, including increased recreational diving opportunities, resulting in economic benefits for local businesses.
More importantly, by providing additional habitat structure for fish and invertebrate species, the Annapolis will make possible an increase in population of these animals.
The ARSBC has been encouraged by the amount and diversity of marine life seen on the Annapolis to date, after the vessel has been down for only six months. A marine life taxon (catalogue of organisms) has already been set up at the Vancouver Aquarium.
The Society is asking underwater photographers and videographers to support this project by sending in pictures and videos whenever possible. One of the crucial pieces of information is to know as precisely as possible where on the ship the pictures and videos were taken, so divers must be aware of their surroundings. Physical structural landmarks on the ship are very useful tools, as is a record of depth and whether you are diving on the port or starboard side of the ship.
Please send your pictures, videos and information to Donna Gibbs at the Vancouver Aquarium at: [email protected].
The study is expected to run for five years.
