| The objective of this thesis is to characterise and map the benthic habitats of Newman Sound, a fjord in Terra Nova National Park, eastern Newfoundland. A multibeam sonar system was used to collect bathymetric and acoustic backscatter data. As backscatter is a function of seafloor substrate, interpretations were made about the distribution of substrates, and these were tested by groundtruthing. Benthic sediments were collected using a Peterson grab and video images were collected with a tethered drop camera, SCUBA divers, and a remotely operated vehicle. A seismic sub-bottom profiler was also used. Nine substrates were identified, and each supported a distinct assemblage of invertebrates and algae, which were classified into eleven habitats. The distribution of substrates and habitats were mapped in a Geographic Information System (GIS). The results indicate that this methodology can effectively map fjord habitats and successfully identifies areas of conservation value. |
