Two field events were conducted in the Bahamas (Tongue of the Ocean (2010) and Exuma Sound (2011)) to explore and document the vertical Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems (vMCE) which fall precipitously from the reef crest at 25 m to in excess of 2000 m at each study site. Using mixed-gas closed-circuit rebreathers, the dive team set out to accomplish a variety of in-water tasks to a maximum depth of 136 m. Repeat operational procedures were used to define phases of the dives for discussion. Several distinct in-water strategies were developed during the working phase of the dive. This assessment of operations provides a guide for continued evaluation of safety, standardized procedures, and efficient operations within the vMCE environment.

Depth range
50- 150 m

Mesophotic “mentions”
27 x (total of 2131 words)

Classification
* Focused on 'mesophotic' depth range
* Focused on 'mesophotic coral ecosystem'

Fields
Methods and Technology

Locations
Bahamas

Platforms
Rebreather