Echosounders for Bottom Classification

The BioSonics DT-X Digital Echosounder System used in combination with BioSonics EcoSAV data processing software is the only commercially available hydroacoustic system specifically designed for submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) assessment.

Researchers and submerged aquatic vegetation resource managers use the BioSonics DT-X Echosounder System and BioSonics EcoSAV to assess numerous species of submerged aquatic vegetation in both marine and fresh water environments.  Common uses include locating and quantifying critical habitat species such as eelgrass for protection purposes, and calculating accurate canopy heights and densities of invasive species such as Eurasian Watermilfoil.

In a typical mobile survey deployment, the system can be set up in virtually any size watercraft in depths as shallow as one meter.  As transects are driven over the study area, the echosounder system automatically records bottom depth and plant canopy height and density.  The data collected is time-stamped, geo-referenced and digitally stored.  Surveys are often conducted by a single operator and do not require sophisticated training.

Hardware for Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) Assessment

The components of a basic echosounder system for submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) assessment in a typical mobile survey deployment include:

• a BioSonics DT-X Digital Scientific Echosounder with BioSonics Visual Acquisition^TM data collection software,
• a BioSonics 420 kHz DT-X Digital Transducer, with an optional Integrated Heading Pitch and Roll Sensor,
• a Digital Signal Cable
• a differential GPS
• a Transducer Mount
• a Standard Calibration Sphere (tungsten carbide)
• a Computer – we recommend the rugged Panasonic ToughBook Computer for the ultimate in reliable performance in outdoor conditions.  BioSonics is an authorized reseller of Panasonic Toughbook Computers.

Software for Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) Assessment

Hydroacoustic assessment begins with data acquisition using BioSonics Visual Acquisition Software, which is included with the purchase of the DT-X Digital Scientific Echosounder. 

BioSonics EcoSAV^TM

BioSonics EcoSAV is the only commercially available post processing software package which enables the detection and measurement of submerged aquatic vegetation.  The processing algorithms in BioSonics EcoSAV determine bottom depth, plant presence/absence, plant height and areal coverage.  Plant data is geo-referenced and output in a format compatible with most commercially available mapping and GIS software applications.  BioSonics EcoSAV has been extensively field tested and validated for detection and discrimination between species of submerged plants using BioSonics echosounders. 

Back to Top