Examining the relationship between morphological variation and modeled broadband scattering responses of reef-associated fishes from the Southeast United States

摘要: Abstract Non-lethal methods are sought to provide indices or measure of absolute abundance fit fishery stock assessment models, including those computed for reef fishes. Calibrated scientific echosounders the foundation assessments in low-diversity ecosystems but hampered by complicated target strength responses high diversity systems like coral and rocky reefs. Newly available broadband present advantages over narrowband predecessors increased spatial resolution, signal noise spectral resolution; however, a better understanding sound scattering properties is necessary operational use surveys diverse fish assemblages. To gain insight into feasibility implementing techniques, we first model frequency dependent backscatter ecologically commercially important species; results will aid our backscattering as well supporting dataset develop algorithms classification species/functional groups. Computed-tomography (CT) scans were performed on 149 individuals across species from northeastern Gulf Mexico generate three-dimensional swim bladder models estimation morphometrics input numerical models. Principal component analysis morphology indicated significant variation among closely related (confamilials) not different. We employed boundary element method modeling examine frequency-dependent range orientations (+/- 45°). Comparisons revealed strongest similarities between greatest differences more distantly Patterns spectra have potential be used classify targets toward (or group) estimates density marine ecosystem acoustic surveys. Given that yet commonplace, many region utilize echosounders, also developed – length relationships six with fits ranging widely (r2 = 0.05 0.93). The utility enhance studies, fisheries-independent discussed.