Marine Biology Observations and Equipment

Sophie Webb, a field biologist, embarks on a four-month journey to the Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean to study seabirds and marine mammals. The mission, conducted by NOAA, aims to understand the ecosystem and the impact of tuna fisheries on dolphin populations. The crew prepares the NOAA ship MacArthur II for the voyage, setting up equipment and organizing the team. The study focuses on dolphin populations, their threats, and the ecosystem's balance. The journey involves daily observations and data collection, providing insights into marine life and environmental conditions.

What is the main goal of Sophie Webb's voyage?

• To explore new islands

• To find new fish species

• To study seabirds and marine mammals

• To map the ocean floor

What equipment is crucial for observations on the NOAA ship?

• Satellite phones

• Underwater cameras

• Big Eyes binoculars

• Sonar devices

How many scientists are on board the ship?

• 10

• 15

• 25

• 20

What was a major threat to dolphins in the past?

• Shark attacks

• Climate change

• Oil spills

• Tuna purse seine fishery

What method is used to catch tuna that also affects dolphins?

• Purse seining

• Longline fishing

• Spearfishing

• Trawling

What is the color of the ocean water as the ship moves south?

• Bright yellow

• Clear blue

• Murky green

• Dark brown

What is the purpose of the bongo net?

• To measure water temperature

• To collect plankton and small fish

• To catch large fish

• To observe marine mammals

What is a thermocline?

• A type of fish

• A deep-sea trench

• A type of marine mammal

• A layer where water temperature changes rapidly

What do rough-toothed dolphins primarily eat?

• Large fish like mahi-mahi

• Plankton

• Seaweed

• Small crustaceans

Where do Galapagos storm petrels breed?

• On remote islands

• In coastal areas

• On the mainland

• In open ocean