Effects of sea ice and glaciers on marine littoral biodiversity and spatial abundance in high Arctic fjords

The study included littoral mapping of the inner part of Billefjorden, Svalbard, using unmanned surface vehicle (USV) in a profile of 5 meter depth along the coastline. Analysis of a split-beam eachsounder were used to estimate macroalgae coverage in sections of the coastline, and CTD data and turbidity measurements were used to compare chemical-physical traits. In addition, a underwater camera rig was used to validate the results. The method enable continous measurements close to land, including difficult and hazard areas close to glaciers.