Megafaunal ecological parameters investigated across the nodule cover gradient of the APEI6 of the CCZ@en

Megafaunal parameters explored across different polymetallic-nodule covered seafloor classes. Megafaunal occurrences used to compute ecological parameters were inferred from seafloor imagery data collected using an autonomous vehicle during RSS James Cook cruise JC120 to the APEI6 area of the CCZ (Jones, 2015), in stations JC120-047, JC120-078, and JC120-087. Depth ranges between different data sites was 3950–4250 m. Environmental variables (i.e. nodule cover) were determined using image-based detection algorithms.本研究针对覆盖多金属结核的不同海底生境类别，开展了大型宏生物相关参数的探究。用于生态参数计算的大型宏生物出现记录，通过自主水下航行器采集的海底影像数据推断得到，相关数据采集自皇家研究船（Royal Research Ship, RSS）詹姆斯·库克号JC120航次在克拉里昂-克利珀顿区（Clarion-Clipperton Zone, CCZ）APEI6区块的3个站位：JC120-047、JC120-078及JC120-087，研究背景可参见Jones(2015)的成果。各数据采集站点的水深范围为3950~4250米。环境变量（即结核覆盖度）通过基于影像的检测算法确定。