Metadata and reporting requirements for Camera Surveyed Seabed Biology¶
1. INTRODUCTION¶
Purpose¶
This document outlines metadata requirements and technical specifications for conducting visual seabed fauna surveys.The goal is to ensure alignment with Equinor requirements and Data Delivery Standards. These standards aim to facilitate robust environmental accounting and reporting, particularly concerning seabed fauna mapping and monitoring.
Scope¶
This document covers the technical, operational, and reporting requirements for visual seabed biology surveys, including:
-
Metadata fields required for survey documentation.
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Sensor configurations and technical specifications for Remote Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and other survey equipment.
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File formats and data delivery standards for images, videos, and geospatial data.
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Reporting requirements for integrating survey results into external databases like GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility) and NEA (Norwegian Environment Agency’s database).
The scope ensures alignment with international and regional regulations while providing flexibility to accommodate project-specific needs.
Classification of confirmed species and habitats shall be performed in accordance with Offshore Norway guideline: Handbook. species and habitats of environmental concern. Mapping, Risk Assessment, Mitigation and Monitoring. - In relation to Offshore activities (2024-03-25), and, if relevant, other country specific requirements.
Target Audience¶
The intended audience for this document includes:
Vendors: Such as ROV operators and marine survey providers tasked with data collection and delivery.
Marine Biologists and Ecologists: Professionals responsible for classifying species and habitats based on survey data.
Data technical teams Data technical teams to implement the data validation according to the standards defined.
Document Structure
To facilitate ease of use and navigation, the document is organized into the following sections:
Introduction:
Provides an overview of the document’s purpose, scope, target audience, and structure.
Metadata Requirements:
Details metadata fields necessary for survey documentation, including survey-specific and geospatial metadata.
Technical Specifications:
Outlines sensor types, configurations, and operational requirements for data capture.
Data Formats and Delivery:
Specifies file formats, naming conventions, and standards for delivering survey outputs.
Integration and Reporting:
Explains how data should be reported and integrated into external databases, including templates and examples.
Quality Assurance:
Defines validation and review processes to ensure data accuracy and consistency.
Glossary:
Includes definitions of key terms and acronyms used throughout the document.
2. Meta data requirements¶
2.1 Overview¶
Metadata plays a pivotal role in ensuring the consistency, traceability, and usability of data collected during seabed biology surveys. It serves as the backbone for data integration, regulatory compliance, and effective environmental analysis. This section outlines the core metadata categories necessary to support these objectives and explains their importance.
The metadata requirements are grouped into the following categories
I Survey-Specific Metadata:
Captures details about the survey’s context, including project associations, event IDs, and survey dates. This metadata ensures traceability and enables the aggregation of related datasets across campaigns.
II Geospatial Metadata:
Provides precise geographical coordinates and geodetic details for surveyed locations, enabling accurate mapping and spatial analysis critical for environmental reporting and habitat classification.
III Sensor Metadata: Documents the technical details of sensors and equipment used during the survey, such as sensor types, operational parameters, and data resolution. This metadata is essential for understanding the conditions under which the data was captured and ensuring it meets technical and quality standards.
Each of these metadata categories is designed to facilitate seamless integration with regulatory requirements and databases such as GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility). They also ensure that survey outputs align with global environmental and scientific standards, supporting robust environmental management and decision-making processes.
In the subsequent sections, each metadata category is detailed with specific field descriptions, formats, and validation requirements to provide a comprehensive framework for documenting and delivering seabed survey data.
2.2 Survey-Specific Metadata¶
Survey-specific metadata defines the operational context of a survey, ensuring data traceability and enabling aggregation across related datasets.
- Purpose:
To link survey data to its broader campaign or project.
To maintain a clear record of survey-specific attributes for reporting and compliance.
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Key Fields:
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Parent Event ID: Links the survey to a larger campaign.
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Location ID: Identifies the survey station or area.
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Event ID: A unique identifier for each survey.
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Survey Date: Specifies the date of the survey activity.
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Project/Asset Name: Links the survey to a specific project or operational asset.
-
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Format Guidelines:
| Field | Data Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent Event ID | Text | Unique identifier for campaign link | EQ24901 |
| Location ID | Text | Identifier for survey location | LOC_001 |
| Event ID | Text | Unique ID for survey event | EQ24901_LOC_001 |
| Survey Date | Date (YYYY-MM-DD) |
Date of survey activity | 2024-01-15 |
| Project/Asset Name | Text | Name of project or asset | OffshoreRig_Alpha |
-
Validation:
-
Ensure unique IDs for Parent Event, Location, and Event fields.
-
Cross-reference survey metadata with operational records.
2.3 Geospatial Metadata¶
Geospatial metadata provides precise locational data critical for mapping and analysing surveyed areas.
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Purpose:
-
To ensure spatial accuracy and facilitate geospatial analyses for habitat classification and environmental reporting.
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Key Fields:
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Latitude and Longitude: Coordinates in decimal degrees.
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Geodetic Datum: Specifies the geodetic system (e.g., WGS84(EPSG4326)).
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Country Code: ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 format.
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Survey Center Depth: Average depth of the survey area.
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Format Guidelines:
| Field | Data Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Latitude | Decimal (8 digits) | Latitude in decimal degrees | 59.12345612 |
| Longitude | Decimal (8 digits) | Longitude in decimal degrees | 10.65432123 |
| Geodetic Datum | Text | Geodetic reference system | WGS84(EPSG4326) |
| Country Code | Text | Country code of location | NO |
| Survey Center Depth | Decimal (2 digits) | Average depth of surveyed area | 200.45 |
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Validation:
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Ensure all coordinates fall within the operational survey area.
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Verify datum consistency across all survey records.
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Original coordinates, as measured or data source should be retained or archived.
Any coordinate transformations applied to coordinate data should, when possible, be applied to the original coordinates, rather than coordinates that have been transformed at an earlier stage in the data lifecycle.
2.4 Sensor Metadata¶
Sensor metadata describes the equipment used during the survey, ensuring transparency and reproducibility of data collection.
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Purpose:
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To document the specifications and performance of sensors used for data capture.
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To validate that data is collected under appropriate technical conditions.
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Key Fields:
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Sensor Type: E.g., GNSS, CTD, Digital Camera.
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Sensor Carrier: Platform carrying the sensor (e.g., ROV, Vessel).
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Altitude Above Seabed: Operational altitude for imaging sensors.
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Operational Parameters: Pitch, roll, and heading of sensors.
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Format Guidelines:
| Field | Data Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor Type | Text | Type of sensor used | Digital Camera |
| Sensor Carrier | Text | Platform carrying the sensor | ROV |
| Altitude Above Seabed | Decimal (1-2) | Operational altitude (meters) | 2.5 |
| Pitch | Decimal | Sensor pitch (degrees) | -1.2 |
| Roll | Decimal | Sensor roll (degrees) | 0.5 |
| Heading | Decimal | Sensor heading (degrees) | 180.0 |
- Metadata Field Descriptions:
This table defines the required fields for sensor metadata, including spatial and operational parameters.
| Field name | Format | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Date | Text 10 characters | YYYY-MM-DD (2022-06-31) |
| Time | Text 12 characters | HH:MM:SS.SSS (06:32:04.261) |
| UTM Easting | Floating number, 2 decimals | Horizontal Position (x) Reference point on Sensor |
| UTM Northing | Floating number, 2 decimals | Horizontal Position (y) Reference point on Sensor |
| Sensor Z | Floating number, 2 decimals | Vertical Position (z) Reference point on Sensor DEPTH negative values HEIGHT as positive. All values in meters. |
| Roll | Floating number, 2 decimals | Sensor roll (starboard down positive value) |
| Pitch | Floating number, 2 decimals | Sensor pitch (bow up positive value) |
| Gyro | Floating number, 2 decimals | Sensor heading (heading 360º) |
| Altitude | Floating number, 2 decimals | SENSOR (reference point) distance above surface. Always positive values in meters |
| KP | Floating number, 5 decimals | Kilometer post in km. If applicable |
| Number of cameras | Integer number | From 1 to 4 |
| AREA ID | Text 25 characters | Area name |
| Videoset name | Text 30 characters | SurveyID_timestamp (EQ22900 _ 2020010322594066) |
| Time form start | Text 12 characters | HH:MM:SS.SSS (00:00:00.047) |
Date/Time = ISO 8601 format
This table outlines the standard codes for identifying cameras used in videos and still images, ensuring consistency in file naming conventions.
| Code | Data type |
|---|---|
| CAM1 | Port Camera |
| CAM2 | Centre Camera |
| CAM3 | Starboard Camera |
| CAM4 | Additional camera |
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Validation:
-
Validate sensor data against operational requirements (e.g., altitude and heading accuracy).
Ensure metadata overlays (e.g., timestamp, location) in video and image files.
2.5 Metadata Validation and Integration¶
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Purpose:
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To ensure the integrity and consistency of metadata across all survey records.
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To facilitate integration with regulatory databases and environmental systems.
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Guidelines:
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Metadata should be validated using predefined schemas or templates.
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Standardized file naming conventions must be applied to ensure seamless integration.
3.Technical Specifications¶
3.1 Overview¶
This section outlines the technical specifications required to conduct seabed fauna surveys effectively. It includes the types and configurations of sensors used for data collection and the standards for data capture. Adherence to these specifications ensures high-quality data acquisition, operational consistency, and compliance with environmental standards.
The section is divided into the following subsections:
I Sensor Types and Configurations:
Describes the recommended sensors and their integration with carriers.
II Data Capture Standards: Defines operational parameters such as altitude, metadata overlays, and quality requirements for video and still imagery.
3.2 Sensor Types and Configurations¶
- Purpose:
To provide guidelines on selecting and deploying sensors that meet technical and operational requirements for seabed fauna surveys.
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Recommended Sensor Types:
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Positioning Sensors:
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GNSS: Ensures accurate surface positioning of the vessel or ROV deployment point
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USBL/SSBL: Provides precise subsea positioning for ROVs.
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INS (Inertial Navigation System): Enhances accuracy by correcting for drift in GNSS data.
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Imaging Sensors: Digital Video Camera:
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Captures high-definition video.
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Metadata overlay includes date, time, coordinates, depth, and camera orientation.
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Digital Still Camera:
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Produces high-resolution still images, either standalone or extracted from video footage.
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Supports file formats such as PNG and JPG.
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Auxiliary Sensors:
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CTD (Conductivity, Temperature, Depth): Provides environmental parameters for surveyed areas.
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Reference Lasers: Two parallel lasers (e.g., red dots with fixed spacing) ensure scaling accuracy in images and videos.
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Sensor Carriers:
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Vessels:
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Equipped with GNSS for surface positioning.
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Serve as the deployment platform for ROVs.
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ROVs:
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Recommended type: Working-Class ROV (WROV) for robust performance in harsh subsea environments.
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Equipped with altimeters, cameras, CTD sensors, and reference lasers.
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Configuration Standards:
| Sensor | Carrier | Technical Requirement | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| GNSS | Vessel | Accurate surface positioning (±1m). | Enabled for real-time tracking. |
| USBL/SSBL | ROV | Subsea positioning accuracy (±0.5m). | Linked to GNSS for calibration. |
| Digital Video | ROV | Overlay metadata and 720p resolution minimum. | H264 format. |
| Digital Stills | ROV | High-definition still images at 30m intervals. | PNG/JPG format. |
| Reference Lasers | ROV | Parallel dots for scaling (e.g., 20cm spacing). | Red dots or green laser options. |
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Frequency of Data Capture:
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Stills:
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Capture images at intervals of 30 meters or based on specific targets (e.g., coral reefs, sponge aggregations).
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Video:
- Continuous recording with proper overlap of consecutive tracks.
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Quality Control Requirements:
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Ensure videos are free from blurriness in both play and pause modes.
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Validate the overlay of all required metadata fields during recording.
Examples:
| Data Type | Standard | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Video Resolution | Minimum 720p, frame rate prevents blurring | H264 format with overlays. |
| Still Image Format | High-resolution PNG/JPG | 1920x1080, with metadata tags. |
| Altitude | 1–3 meters above seabed | Validated during deployment. |
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Documentation of Observations:
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Coral Reefs:
- Still images and videos must sufficiently document coral reef conditions to assess their value and ecological significance.
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Sensitive Habitats:
- Images of sponges, sea pen communities, and soft-bottom coral gardens must be captured with specific focus on density and species composition.
4.Data Formats and Delivery¶
4.1 Overview¶
This section outlines the standardized data formats, file naming conventions, and delivery protocols for seabed fauna surveys. These requirements ensure consistency, traceability, and seamless integration with regulatory bodies and databases such as GBIF. Specifications include file formats for videos, images, and associated metadata, along with guidelines for organizing and delivering the data.
The section is divided into the following subsections:
I File formats: Describes the recommended file formats and their associated metadata
II File naming conventions:
Defines how the data is named
III Delivery protocols:
Defines what, how and where the data are to be delivered
4.2 File Formats¶
The individual datatypes are to be delivered on the following formats:
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Video Files:
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Format: H264 (MPEG-4 AVC), minimum resolution of 720p
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Metadata Overlay: Date, time, geospatial coordinates (latitude/longitude), depth, altitude, and camera orientation (pitch, roll, heading)
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Maximum File Length: 15 minutes.
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Still Images:
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Format: PNG or JPG with high resolution
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Metadata: Timestamp, geospatial coordinates, and camera orientation
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Track Data:
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Format: ASCII comma-separated files (.VTF)
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Fields: Include timestamp, latitude, longitude, depth, pitch, roll, and heading.
4.3 File Naming Conventions¶
The individual datatypes are to be delivered in accordance with the following file naming conventions:
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Folder uploaded to SSU Data lake: < SurveyName >< Name >< Type of survey> *
Example: EQ22900_Harepus_Baseline
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Videos: < SurveyID >< DateTime >< CameraName >.mp4
Example: EQ22900_20240101T120000_CAM1.mp4
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Still Images: < SurveyID >< DateTime >< CameraName >.png
Example: EQ22900_20240101T120000_CAM1.png
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Track Files: < SurveyID >_VIDEO.VTF or < SurveyID >_STILL.VTF
Example: EQ22900_VIDEO.VTF
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Folder structure: Files should be organized by survey date and time (e.g., 20240101_12
4.4 Delivery protocols¶
The individual datatypes are to be delivered in accordance with the following delivery protocols:
1. Data Package:
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Include videos, still images, track files, and a survey report in PDF format
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Compress data into a single package with a logical directory structure.
2. Geospatial Data:
- Deliver point and polygon data in geodatabase formats (DT1–DT7) referred below with habitat and species classifications.
3.Validation:
- Ensure all files comply with format specifications and metadata accuracy before delivery.
4. Delivery Location:
-
Please refer to the Data delivery guidelines mentioned here: External User Guide - SSU Documentation - for external Vendors
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In accordance with attribute 16 and 17 in DT1: SURVEY_INFO (point data)
5 Integration and Reporting¶
5.1 Overview¶
Integration and reporting ensure that seabed biology survey data is properly aligned with regulatory requirements, environmental databases, and project deliverables. This section outlines the protocols for preparing, integrating, and submitting survey data and reports.
5.2 Integration Standards¶
Regulatory Databases:
Deliver data in formats compatible with GBIF (species-level data) and NEA (DT1–DT7 geodatabase standards). The standards references are indicated below.
Data formats:
| Data type | Information layer | Data format |
|---|---|---|
| DT1 | SURVEY_INFO | Point data in GDB |
| DT2 | PHOTO_LOCATIONS | Point data in GDB |
| DT3 | VISUAL_INSPECTION | Point data in GDB |
| DT4 | Report (Survey vendor) | |
| DT5 | Still images | PNG/JPG |
| DT6 | Video | MP4 |
| DT7 | MARINE_ORGANISMS_POLY | Polygon data in GDB |
| DT8 | Report |
If relevant, other country specific requirements shall be applied.
File Types:
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Geospatial Data: Ensure geospatial data includes habitat and species classifications.
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Marine Organisms Data:
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Point Data: Individual species observations.
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Polygon Data: Habitat boundaries and classifications.
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Digital Media: Link videos and images to metadata using unique identifiers.
Validation:
Ensure data consistency and alignment with regulatory database schemas before submission.
5.3 Reporting Requirements¶
Survey Report:
- Include objectives, methods, findings, and geospatial visualizations. Deliver in PDF format.
Deliverables:
- Videos, still images, metadata, and geospatial data files. Ensure marine organism data is included as geospatial point and polygon datasets.
File Links:
- Ensure all files are referenced in the report with clear links to geospatial datasets.
5.4 Delivery Protocols¶
Submit data as a single, organized package in accordance with chapter 4.4.
Adhere to naming conventions and directory structures specified in Section 4.3.
Validate files for completeness and compliance before delivery in accordance with chapter 4.
If no country specific requirements are given, the following datatypes (DT1-DT7) are to be reported.
DT1: SURVEY_INFO (point data)¶
Attribures marked as red are manadatory, otherwise optional
| ATTRIBUTE ID | ATTRIBUT Name | DATA FORMAT | Short explanation | Domain name | Domain code | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OBJECTID | Object ID | Read only. Unique ID generated by ArcGIS | Yes | ||
| 2 | Shape | Geometry | Read only. Stores the geometry | Yes | ||
| 3 | Epsg | Double | EPSG code for Coordinate system | Yes | ||
| 4 | License | Text | Yes | |||
| 5 | num_photo | Double | Total number of photos | No | ||
| 6 | Operator | Text | Yes | |||
| 7 | Remarks | Text | No | |||
| 8 | report_date | Date | Date of the report | Yes | ||
| 9 | report_name | Text | Name of the report ( |
Yes | ||
| 10 | reporting_vendor | Text | Name of the reporting company | Yes | ||
| 11 | rov_type | Text | Yes | |||
| 12 | survey_area | Text | Yes | |||
| 13 | survey_vendor | Text | Name of the survey company | Yes | ||
| 14 | survey_id | Text | Unique ID for surveys. (used to map features between the three feature classes) | Yes | ||
| 15 | survey_id_ref | Text | Project reference? | Yes | ||
| 16 | survey_name | Text | Name of survey | Yes | ||
| 17 | survey_type | Text | Type of survey | Survey_type | baseline habitat monitoring other route site |
No |
| 18 | survey_length | double | Length of survey | No | ||
| 19 | vessel_name | Text | Yes | |||
| 20 | water_depth | double | Water depth survey center | No | ||
| 21 | X | Double | X survey center | No | ||
| 22 | Y | Double | Y survey center | No | ||
| 23 | Year | Double | Year of survey | Yes |
DT2: PHOTO_LOCATIONS (point data)¶
Attribures marked as red are manadatory, otherwise optional
| ATTRIBUTE ID | ATTRIBUTE Name | DATA FORMAT | Short explanation | Domain name | Domain code | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epsg | Double | EPSG code for Coordinate system | Yes | ||
| 2 | OBJECTID | Object ID | Read only. Unique ID generated by ArcGIS | Yes | ||
| 3 | photo_date | Date | Yes | |||
| 4 | photo_name | Text | Filename of photo ( |
Yes | ||
| 5 | photo_remarks | Text | No | |||
| 6 | Quality | Text | Quality of photo | Photo_quality | Good Medium no_picture very poor remove |
Yes |
| 7 | rov_heading | Double | No | |||
| 8 | Shape | Geometry | Read only. Stores the geometry | Yes | ||
| 9 | survey_id | Text | Reference to the survey the photo belongs to (survey_info point) | Yes | ||
| 10 | transect_name | Text | No | |||
| 11 | water_depth | Double | Yes | |||
| 12 | X | Double | No | |||
| 13 | Y | Double | No |
DT3: VISUAL_INSPECTION¶
Attribures marked as red are manadatory, otherwise optional
| ATTRIBUTE ID | ATTRIBUTE Name | DATA FORMAT | Short explanation | Domain name | Domain code | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | survey_id | Text | Unique ID for surveys (used to map features between the feature classes) | Yes | ||
| 2 | Transect_name | Text | Yes | |||
| 3 | X | Double | X position | Yes | ||
| 4 | Y | Double | Y position | Yes | ||
| 5 | Epsg | Double | EPSG code for Coordinate system | Yes | ||
| 6 | Date | date | Yes | |||
| 7 | ROV heading | Double | No | |||
| 8 | Type of substrate | Text | Type of substrate observed | Substrate | mud_sand sand mud_sand_gravel_cobbles_boulders gravel cobbles_boulders bedrock coral_gravel coral_sand shell_hash shell_sand sponge_spicules other no_data |
Yes |
| 9 | Comment on the substrate | text | If any other comments on the substrate, such as a new substrate type or interesting observation | No | ||
| 10 | Seabed feature | Text | Seabed features observed | Seabed_feature | bacterial_mats gas_seep mdacs hydrothermal_vent iceberg_plougmark mound coral_mound Pocmarks ridge ripples sand_waves other_current_features slide cliff slope wreck cable cobbles boulders hole crack |
No |
| 11 | Comment on the seabed feature | Text | If any other comments on the seabed features, such as a new seabed feature type or interesting observation | No | ||
| 12 | Anthropogenic impact on seabed | Text | Anthropogenic impact on seabed observed | Anthropogenic | trawl_marks fishing_nets plastic other_fishing_litter other_marine_litter shipwreck |
No |
| 13 | Comments on anthropogenic impact | Text | Any special comments such as amount observed or interesting observation | No | ||
| 14 | Drill cuttings on seabed | Text | Drill cuttings observed on seabed | Drill_cuttings_seabed | Present partial complete_cover |
No |
| 15 | Redlisted coral Desmophyllum pertusum | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 16 | Redlisted coral Paragorgia arborea | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 17 | Redlisted coral Swiftia pallida | present absent |
Yes | |||
| 18 | Redlisted coral Radicipes gracilis | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 19 | Redlisted coral Anthomastus grandifloras | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 20 | Redlisted coral Madrepora oculate | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 21 | Redlisted coral Anthelia fallax | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 22 | Redlisted coral Desmophyllum dianthus | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 23 | Redlisted coral Fungiacyathus fragilis | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 24 | Redlisted coral Stenocyathus vermiformis | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 25 | Redlisted coral Clavularia arctica | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 26 | Redlisted seapen Virgularia glacialis | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 27 | Redlisted seapen Protoptilum thomsoni | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 28 | Redlisted seapen Ptilella grandis | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 29 | Other species | Text | Other species of conservation interest, or new redlistet species | No | ||
| 30 | Coral reef | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 31 | Status on the coral reef | Text | Status on the Coral Reef as described in the Offshore Norway handbook | Status coral reef | Dead high_density low_density scattered very_high_density | No(Yes if 30 = “present”) |
| 32 | Radius of Desmophyllum colony in meters | Double | Method of measuring as described in the Offshore Norway’s handbook | No | ||
| 33 | Length Desmophyllum colony in meters | Double | Method of measuring as described in the Offshore Norway’s handbook | No | ||
| 34 | Height of Desmophyllum colony in meters | Double | Method of measuring as described in the Offshore Norway’s handbook | No | ||
| 35 | Total area of living Desmophyllum polyps | Text | Total area of living Desmophyllum polyps on colony front - method of measuring as described in the Offshore Norway’s handbook | Density 1 - 15 | 1-5 6-10 11-15 >15 |
No |
| 36 | Density of living polyps on colony front | Text | Density on living coral on front as described in the Offshore Norway’s handbook | Density living polyps | <5% >60% 20-40% 40-60% 5-20% |
No |
| 37 | Seapen communities | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | ||
| 38 | Densities of seapen individuals per 25 m2 | Text | Density of seapen individuals observed within the 25 square meters area | Density 1 - 15 | 1-5 6-10 11-15 >15 |
No (Yes if 37 = 'Present') |
| 39 | Dominating species of seapen communities | Text | The dominating species of seapen communities | Species seapen | funiculina_quadrangularis virgularia_mirabilis virgularia glacialis virgularia_spp pennatula_phosphorea kophobelemnon_stelliferum protoptilum_thomsoni ptilella_grandis halipteris_spp pennatula_aculeata umbellula_encrinus other unidentified |
No |
| 40 | Secondary species of seapen communities | Text | The second most observed seapen species, if more than one is observed | Species seapen | funiculina_quadrangularis virgularia_mirabilis virgularia glacialis virgularia_spp pennatula_phosphorea kophobelemnon_stelliferum protoptilum_thomsoni ptilella_grandis halipteris_spp pennatula_aculeata umbellula_encrinus other unidentified |
No |
| 41 | Comment on species (species_seapen_remark) | Text | If anything, special or interesting observed | No | ||
| 42 | Sponge aggregations | Text | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes | |
| 43 | Sponge_type | Text | Sponge type | hard_bottom soft_bottom glass |
No (Yes if 42 = 'Present') | |
| 44 | Densities of sponge cover in % | Text | The density of sponges observed in the area | Sponge cover | <1% <10% 1-5% 6-10% |
No (Yes if 42 = 'Present') |
| 45 | Dominating species forming sponge aggregations | Text | The dominating sponge species observed | Species sponge aggregations | geodia_baretti geodia_atlantica geodia_spp aplysilla_sulfurea stryphnus ponderosus steletta_sp phakellia_axinellidae antho_dichotoma mycale_lingua caulophacus_arcticus chondrocladia_grandis cladorhiza_spp asbestopluma_sp asconema_setubalense other unidentified |
No |
| 46 | Secondary species forming sponge aggregations | Text | The second most observed sponge species, if more than one is observed | Species sponge aggregations | geodia_baretti geodia_atlantica geodia_spp aplysilla_sulfurea stryphnus ponderosus steletta_sp phakellia_axinellidae antho_dichotoma mycale_lingua caulophacus_arcticus chondrocladia_grandis cladorhiza_spp asbestopluma_sp asconema_setubalense other unidentified |
No |
| 47 | Comment on species (species_sponge_remark) | Text | If anything special or interesting observed | No | ||
| 48 | Coral gardens | Text | If coral gardens observed | Present or absent | present absent |
Yes |
| 49 | Coral gardens Type | Text | If coral gardens observed | Coral garden type | hard_bottom pig_tail bambus other |
No (Yes if 48 = 'Present') |
| 50 | Densities of coral individuals per 25 m2 | Text | The density if coral individuals in the area | Density 1 - 15 | 1-5 6-10 11-15 >15 |
No (Yes if 48 = 'Present') |
| 51 | Dominating species in coral gardens | Text | The dominating species observed in coral gardens | Species coral garden | isidella_lofotensis radicipes_gracilis fungiacyathus_fragilis flabellum_macandrewi soft_bottom _cup_corals desmophyllum_dianthus stenocyathus_vermiformis paragorgia_arborea primnoa_resedaeformis paramuricea_placomus muriceide_kuekenthali anthothela_grandiflora lateothela_grandiflora swiftia_sp nephtheidae anthelia_fallax clavularia_borealis clavularia_arctica alcyonium_glomeratum alcyonium_digitatum alcyonium_norvegicum drifa_duva_pseudodrifa_sp gersemia_sp sarcodictyon_roseum stylaster_norvegicus stylaster_gemmascens other unidentified |
No |
| 52 | Secondary species in coral gardens | Text | The second most observed species, if more than one is observed | Species coral garden | isidella_lofotensis radicipes_gracilis fungiacyathus_fragilis flabellum_macandrewi soft_bottom _cup_corals desmophyllum_dianthus stenocyathus_vermiformis paragorgia_arborea primnoa_resedaeformis paramuricea_placomus muriceide_kuekenthali anthothela_grandiflora lateothela_grandiflora swiftia_sp nephtheidae anthelia_fallax clavularia_borealis clavularia_arctica alcyonium_glomeratum alcyonium_digitatum alcyonium_norvegicum drifa_duva_pseudodrifa_sp gersemia_sp sarcodictyon_roseum stylaster_norvegicus stylaster_gemmascens other unidentified |
No |
| 53 | Comment on species (species_coral_garden_remark) | Text | If any particular species are observed, or anything special needs to be noted | No | ||
| 54 | Other aggregation forming fauna | Text | If other aggregation forming fauna is observed | No | ||
| 55 | Densities of other fauna per 25 m2 | Text | Density of new aggregation forming fauna | Density 1 - 15 | >15 1-5 11-15 6-10 |
No |
| 56 | Comment on the habitat/aggregation | Text | Any special remarks on aggregation forming fauna | No | ||
| 57 | Comment on fauna (fauna_remark) | Text | Comments if any other fauna of interest is observed More closely described in the guidelines | No |
DT7:MARINE_ORGANISMS_POLY¶
Attribures marked as red are manadatory, otherwise optional
| ATTRIBUTE ID | ATTRIBUTE NAME | ATTRIBUTE ALIAS | DATA FORMAT | Short explanation | Domain name | DOMAIN code | UPDATE / MODIFIED BY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SUBTYPE | SUBTYPE | Short Integer | Unique ID for surveys (used to map features between the feature classes) | Confirmed coral reef or garden Interpreted coral reef or garden Single coral identified, no coral reef or garden Surveyed - no coral reef or garden found Possible coral reef or garden Sponge cover |
SC/ MB | |
| 2 | SURVEY_ID | Survey Job No | Integer | Numerical part of the EQ number | N/A | N/A | SC |
| 3 | SURVEY_REF | Survey Job Ref | String | Name of project | N/A | N/A | SC |
| 4 | SURVEY_DATE | Survey Date | Date | Date of observation | N/A | N/A | SC |
| 5 | INSTRUMENT | Instrument Used | String | Source used in classification item 8 to item 11 (VIDEO, STILLS, SSS, MBE) | GIT_CoralInstruments | SSS, MBE MBE SSS VIDEO |
SC / MB |
| 6 | CLASS | Coral Classification | String | The classification grade shall be the highest of the COVERAGE and SPECIMENS | GIT_CoralClasses | Dead Poor Fair Good Excellent |
MB |
| 7 | SPECIMENS | Coral Specimens | String | Number of Gorgonian corals forming coral garden, per 25m2 | GIT_CoralClassSpecimens | <5 5-10 10-15 >15 |
MB |
| 8 | COVERAGE | Coral Coverage | String | Coverage in terms of % of living corals within the area of living Desmophyllum pertusum (reef front) | GIT_CoralClassCoverage | 0 0 - 5 5 - 20 20 - 40 40 - 60 60 - 100 |
MB |
| 9 | LIVING_AREA | Area Desmophyllum pertusum | String | Area of living Desmophyllum pertusum (m2) | GIT_CoralClassArea | <0.25 0.25 - 2.5 2.5 - 10 10 - 25 >25 |
MB |
| 10 | LOCALITY | Locality | String | Unique ID for coral related target, from interpretation of acoustic data (EQyypnn_001 (sequential increase)) | N/A | N/A | SC |
| 11 | DATA_URL | Data Hyperlink URL | String | Link to picture, video, etc. Only picture/image file name | N/A | N/A | SC |
| 12 | REPORT_URL | Report Hyperlink URL | String | Link to report. Only report file name | N/A | N/A | SC |
| 13 | UPDATE | Updated Date | Date | Date when data was last updated | N/A | N/A | SC / MB |
| 14 | UPDATE_BY | Updated By | String | Signature of update | N/A | N/A | SC / MB |
| 15 | REMARKS | Remarks | String | Can be used to describe target | N/A | N/A | SC / MB |
6. Quality Assurance¶
6.1 Overview¶
Quality assurance ensures seabed fauna survey data is accurate, reliable, and meets regulatory standards.
6.2 QA During Data Collection¶
Sensor Checks:
- Calibrate sensors before and after surveys.
Standards:
- Keep sensors 1–3 meters above the seabed and ensure metadata (date, time, coordinates) is recorded.
Real-Time Monitoring:
- Check data quality during collection to fix any issues immediately.
6.3 QA During Data Processing¶
File Validation:
- Ensure all files are complete, accurate, and named correctly.
Cross-Checks:
* Match metadata with video and image content to confirm consistency.
6.4 QA for Reporting¶
Compliance:
Ensure all deliverables meet regulatory standards (GBIF, NEA, etc.).
Completeness:
Include all required files and reference them properly in the survey report.
7. Glossary¶
The following terms and acronyms are used in this document and are defined here for clarity.
| Acronym | Explanation |
|---|---|
| ASCII | American Standard Code for Information Interchange |
| AVC | Advanced Video Coding |
| CTD | Conductivity, Temperature, Depth |
| DT | Data Type |
| DVL | Doppler Velocity Log |
| EPSG | European Petroleum Survey Group |
| GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility |
| GDB | Geodatabase |
| GIS | Geographic Information System |
| GNSS | Global Navigation Satellite System |
| HD | High-Definition |
| ID | Identification |
| INS | Inertial Navigation System |
| JPG | Joint Photographic Experts Group |
| KP | Kilometer Post |
| MB | Marine Biologist |
| MBE | Multibeam Echosounder |
| MPEG-4 | Moving Pictures Expert Group 4 |
| N/A | Not Applicable |
| NEA | Norwegian Environment Agency |
| Portable Document Format | |
| PNG | Portable Network Graphic |
| QA | Quality Assurance |
| Ref | Reference |
| ROV | Remotely Operated Vehicle |
| SC | Survey Vendor |
| SSBL | Super Short Baseline |
| SSS | Side-Scan Sonar |
| SSU | Safety, Security and Sustainability |
| URL | Uniform Resource Locator |
| USBL | Ultra-Short Baseline |
| UTM | Universal Transverse Mercator |
| VTF | Video Track Format |
| WGS84(EPSG4326) | World Geodetic System 1984 |
| WROV | Work-Class Remotely Operated Vehicle |