SLiDAP: The Satellite-Linked Data Acquisition and Photogrammetry System.

The specific objectives of the NSF-funded SLiDAP development are to:

1. Develop, build and test a remotely accessible, low impact, highly reliable local area imaging network suitable for obtaining accurate, 3D close-range photogrammetric measurements.
   
2. Adapt existing close-range photogrammetry software for use as a quantitative tool when integrated into the remote imaging network.
   
3. Specifically adapt the use of 3D photogrammetry to perform accurate census operations, and to remotely estimate individual body masses in pinnipeds.
   
4. In a second software development stage, enhance the 3D photogrammetry system through automatic image analysis for semi-automated census operations.
   
5. Develop open design specifications for a bi-directional radio data link between roving archival tags and remote data collection stations, for future universal system compatibility.

The specific objectives of the SSLRI / NOAA funded physiological validation study at the ASLC, on 3D photogrammetry are to:

1. Define the accuracy of body mass calculations based on relationships derived from morphometric measures and 3-D photogrammetry.
2. Assess the validity and accuracy of estimating body condition using 3D-photogrammetry.
3. Assess the comparability of body condition estimates using 3D-photogrammetry with existing methods of measurement (i.e., morphometrics, isotope dilution, ultrasound blubber depth and BIA).
4. Determine patterns of blubber mobilization (i.e., selective regional lipid mobilization) under fasting conditions.
5. Determine trends of fatty acid mobilization (i.e., selective regional fatty acid mobilization) under fasting conditions.

The specific objectives of the SSLRI / NOAA funded remote monitoring of Steller sea lions in the Gulf of Alaska and along the Aleutian Islands via SLiDAP are to:

1. Obtain year-round frequent, accurate census data from selected study sites.
2. Assess seasonal variations in haul-out patterns and age structures of selected study rookeries.
3. Estimate longitudinal, seasonal body mass trends for clearly recognizable individuals at selected study sites, as well as cross-sectional trends for all unmarked animals.
4. Estimate longitudinal, seasonal body condition trends for clearly recognizable individuals at selected study sites, as well as cross-sectional trends for all unmarked animals.
5. Assess the relationship between observed trends in body mass and condition, and reported environmental parameters.

© M. Horning & J. Mellish 1999, 2000, 2001.

LABB Home

LABB Site map for disability access