Off Il-Qbajjar (Gozo), off Ramla and San Blas Bays and the adjoining coast (Gozo).

Habitat characterisation; Habitat extent; Bathymetry and Elevation

Underwater cameras; cameras; observers

The data contained in the dataset arose from a project involving the study of the benthos of the Ramla and San Blas marine areas as part of the Gozo and Comino Local Plan (Maltese Archipelago), using direct observation techniques. The data set describes both physical and biological characteristics of the area and includes 5 figures and 34 photographs. Four different types of mapping methodologies were used: shore transects laid underwater by divers, offshore transects surveyed by divers using Diver Propulsion Vehicles (DPVs), Random spot-dives and Aerial photography. (During shore and offshore dives, the occurrence, type and area of bottom covered by the different benthic assemblages as well as special habitats, geomorphologic features etc were recorded. Random spot-dives were used to explore the area between the transects.) Physical parameters were recorded and underwater photography was used to record physical and biological features. Physical data includes bathymetric information of the area, which was mapped. The exposure, currents and underwater visibility have been described. 7 submarine geomorphological features recorded during the study are listed and described with the aid of photographs and a map of their occurrence. One archaeological remain is described. Several man-made structures recorded in the area are listed, described and mapped. The different benthic assemblages recorded were classified into 5 main types, each of which is described with the aid of photographs. The species associated with each assemblage are listed. The distribution of the 5 assemblage types throughout the area is shown on a map. The demersal and pelagic fish recorded are described with the aid of photographs and a species list. Another map shows the proposed 'management zones' in the study area.

Department of Biology, University of Malta
Department of Biology, University of Malta
Msida

MSD 2080
Malta