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Lab Overview
The Seascape Ecology and Mapping (SEAM) laboratory, led by Dr Craig Brown, is based in the Oceanography Department at Dalhousie University.
Human pressures on the ocean continue to increase, and improved understanding of the spatial distribution of seabed organisms and habitats is of paramount importance for implementing effective marine spatial planning, marine conservation, and sustainable resource management. The research of the SEAM lab is focussed in the emerging field of seascape ecology, the ocean-centric equivalent of landscape ecology, which offer a solution to this problem by providing a way to study marine systems within a spatial framework.
Our research aims to describe, understand, and quantify the spatial patterns of benthic fauna and habitats at the ocean floor. This is closely linked to our ability to map seafloor ecosystems at appropriate resolutions to understand species-environment relationships, and drivers of spatiotemporal change in these systems (both natural and anthropogenic). Our research is therefore closely tied to developments in seafloor mapping technologies, primarily acoustic remote sensing methods (e.g. multibeam sonar), and the application of novel and new data integration approaches (i.e. Geographic Information Systems and geospatial statistical techniques).
Our research is grounded in the applied sciences, and we collaborate with government, private sector, and other academic institution on a wide range of projects within this field.
Lab Overview
People
The SEAM Team
Dr. Craig Brown
Associate Professor and Principal Investigator
My research focuses on studying benthic ecosystems from a geospatial perspective utilizing the latest seafloor habitat mapping methodologies and technologies (marine acoustic remote sensing techniques). My main areas of research interest include the study of biophysical interactions in seafloor ecosystems to facilitate the development of effective fisheries and conservation management strategies. This interdisciplinary research involves spatial analysis of ecological, geological, geophysical, and oceanographic data sets to:
a) Understand spatial and temporal patterns in benthic biodiversity and habitat characteristics.
b) Produce robust and accurate thematic maps of the seafloor environment.
c) Develop effective benthic ecosystem monitoring techniques and methods.
d) Ultimately facilitate management decisions through the use of GIS.
My research focuses on studying benthic ecosystems from a geospatial perspective utilizing the latest seafloor habitat mapping methodologies and technologies (marine acoustic remote sensing techniques). My main areas of research interest include the study of biophysical interactions in seafloor ecosystems to facilitate the development of effective fisheries and conservation management strategies. This interdisciplinary research involves spatial analysis of ecological, geological, geophysical, and oceanographic data sets to:
a) Understand spatial and temporal patterns in benthic biodiversity and habitat characteristics.
b) Produce robust and accurate thematic maps of the seafloor environment.
c) Develop effective benthic ecosystem monitoring techniques and methods.
d) Ultimately facilitate management decisions through the use of GIS.
Esther Bushuev
MSc student
Esther completed her B.Sc. in Physical Geography at the University of Toronto, where she also worked as a Research Assistant and undergraduate researcher in the Geomorphology Laboratory focusing on Holocene fluvial and glacial processes in Southern Ontario and British Columbia. Her interest in oceanography has led her to the East Coast where she will be researching geomorphic and benthic habitat mapping and the use of habitat classification schemes at various spatial scales in the NW Atlantic
Esther completed her B.Sc. in Physical Geography at the University of Toronto, where she also worked as a Research Assistant and undergraduate researcher in the Geomorphology Laboratory focusing on Holocene fluvial and glacial processes in Southern Ontario and British Columbia. Her interest in oceanography has led her to the East Coast where she will be researching geomorphic and benthic habitat mapping and the use of habitat classification schemes at various spatial scales in the NW Atlantic
David Fox
MSc student
I hold a BSc from the University of New Brunswick, specializing in environmental biology. My undergraduate Honours project focused on non-target impacts of chemical control for the invasive Hemlock Woolly Adelgid on Eastern Red-backed Salamanders. Collaborating with the Canadian Forest Service on this project has focused my research interests on spatial ecology, population and community dynamics in altered ecosystems, and developing management solutions for large-scale conservation. I began my MSc in the SEAM lab in Fall 2024, working on mapping habitat suitability and species distributions within juvenile American Lobster nursery habitat in the Northumberland Strait to assess the effectiveness of scallop buffer zone marine refuges.
I hold a BSc from the University of New Brunswick, specializing in environmental biology. My undergraduate Honours project focused on non-target impacts of chemical control for the invasive Hemlock Woolly Adelgid on Eastern Red-backed Salamanders. Collaborating with the Canadian Forest Service on this project has focused my research interests on spatial ecology, population and community dynamics in altered ecosystems, and developing management solutions for large-scale conservation. I began my MSc in the SEAM lab in Fall 2024, working on mapping habitat suitability and species distributions within juvenile American Lobster nursery habitat in the Northumberland Strait to assess the effectiveness of scallop buffer zone marine refuges.
Vicki Gazzola
GIS Specialist / Data Manager
Vicki joined the Seascape Ecology & Mapping lab in 2020. She has gained more than a decade of experience producing & managing geospatial data & map products using a variety of GIS software. She often combines GIS packages with graphics packages to produce high quality cartographic results. Her years of involvement in off shore exploration & research have given her experience with a variety of ground truthing methods. Her familiarity & understanding of these methods has proven useful to her role in the SEAM lab where she combines that knowledge & her GIS expertise to build MBES surface grids that are used for environmental analysis, assessing habitat suitability, & benthic interpretation.
Vicki joined the Seascape Ecology & Mapping lab in 2020. She has gained more than a decade of experience producing & managing geospatial data & map products using a variety of GIS software. She often combines GIS packages with graphics packages to produce high quality cartographic results. Her years of involvement in off shore exploration & research have given her experience with a variety of ground truthing methods. Her familiarity & understanding of these methods has proven useful to her role in the SEAM lab where she combines that knowledge & her GIS expertise to build MBES surface grids that are used for environmental analysis, assessing habitat suitability, & benthic interpretation.
Jett Gleason
Volunteer Researcher
Growing up in Vancouver, BC, Jett’s passion for marine science and conservation started at a very young age. She began learning about the ocean on the Pacific coast, spending her summers on a small island in the Georgia Straight. She is now in her third year at Dalhousie, pursuing a BSc in marine biology with a minor in oceanography.
She spent the past summer volunteering with UBC Institute for Oceans and Fisheries. She began working with the SEAM lab this October. She will be assisting with underwater image analysis of eelgrass on the Nova Scotia shore.
As a lifeguard and former competitive swimmer, Jett enjoys anything aquatic, especially surfing, canoeing, and snorkelling.
Growing up in Vancouver, BC, Jett’s passion for marine science and conservation started at a very young age. She began learning about the ocean on the Pacific coast, spending her summers on a small island in the Georgia Straight. She is now in her third year at Dalhousie, pursuing a BSc in marine biology with a minor in oceanography.
She spent the past summer volunteering with UBC Institute for Oceans and Fisheries. She began working with the SEAM lab this October. She will be assisting with underwater image analysis of eelgrass on the Nova Scotia shore.
As a lifeguard and former competitive swimmer, Jett enjoys anything aquatic, especially surfing, canoeing, and snorkelling.
Mati Gray
Ph.D. candidate
Hey there, I’m Mati (they/them), I’ve got a broad marine science skillset, definitely a jack of all trades and a master of none! Did my BSc in Marine Science at SAMS in Oban on the west coast of Scotland. Found a real passion for practically investigating the connections between oceanography and biology and how these will/are impacted by climate change. I then hoped over to the east coast of Scotland, to Aberdeen specifically, to work at Marine Scotland. I was an oceanographer there for a wee while and assisted the oceanography and renewables teams on their research cruises and did lots of salinity analysis and scientific gear checks and maintenance. I’m at the end of my PhD in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Strathclyde where I have researched the latitudinal diversity gradient of marine phytoplankton and the role of species similarity within diversity assessments using RStudio.
Hey there, I’m Mati (they/them), I’ve got a broad marine science skillset, definitely a jack of all trades and a master of none! Did my BSc in Marine Science at SAMS in Oban on the west coast of Scotland. Found a real passion for practically investigating the connections between oceanography and biology and how these will/are impacted by climate change. I then hoped over to the east coast of Scotland, to Aberdeen specifically, to work at Marine Scotland. I was an oceanographer there for a wee while and assisted the oceanography and renewables teams on their research cruises and did lots of salinity analysis and scientific gear checks and maintenance. I’m at the end of my PhD in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Strathclyde where I have researched the latitudinal diversity gradient of marine phytoplankton and the role of species similarity within diversity assessments using RStudio.
Claire Haar
MSc student
I graduated from the University of Guelph with a BSc. in Environmental Geoscience and Geomatics, where I also worked as a volunteer research assistant in the Geomorphetry and Hydrogeomatics research group. As an undergraduate student, I was particularly interested in the field of remote sensing because of its vast possibilities and applications. Due to how broad the field is, I was keen on pursuing research that could combine my skills and academic interests with my childhood passion - ocean life. It was this interest in ocean life that led me to the coast, where I discovered the SEAM lab. I worked in the lab as an undergraduate research assistant for a year, focussing on harmonizing multi-source MBES data sets for future habitat mapping applications in the Bay of Fundy. Currently, as a Masters student in the SEAM lab I will be researching benthic recovery post-dredging, focussing on both the physical characteristics of the sea floor and population dynamics in various popular commercial fishing areas offshore of Nova Scotia.
I graduated from the University of Guelph with a BSc. in Environmental Geoscience and Geomatics, where I also worked as a volunteer research assistant in the Geomorphetry and Hydrogeomatics research group. As an undergraduate student, I was particularly interested in the field of remote sensing because of its vast possibilities and applications. Due to how broad the field is, I was keen on pursuing research that could combine my skills and academic interests with my childhood passion - ocean life. It was this interest in ocean life that led me to the coast, where I discovered the SEAM lab. I worked in the lab as an undergraduate research assistant for a year, focussing on harmonizing multi-source MBES data sets for future habitat mapping applications in the Bay of Fundy. Currently, as a Masters student in the SEAM lab I will be researching benthic recovery post-dredging, focussing on both the physical characteristics of the sea floor and population dynamics in various popular commercial fishing areas offshore of Nova Scotia.
Antonia Kotliarov
MSc student
Originally from humid Virginia, Antonia spends most of her time chasing the cold. She received her BSc in Marine Sciences from the University of Maine, where she looked at differences between benthic communities at active and peripheral areas of a hydrocarbon seep for her honors thesis. Her excitement about the benthos, especially benthic communities, has led her even further north for her master’s; where she will be doing some benthic habitat mapping around a freshwater seep site to understand the effects these freshwater seepages into the marine environment have on the benthic macrofauna. For her project, she will be working with both the SEAM lab at Dal and the 4D Oceans Lab at MUN
Originally from humid Virginia, Antonia spends most of her time chasing the cold. She received her BSc in Marine Sciences from the University of Maine, where she looked at differences between benthic communities at active and peripheral areas of a hydrocarbon seep for her honors thesis. Her excitement about the benthos, especially benthic communities, has led her even further north for her master’s; where she will be doing some benthic habitat mapping around a freshwater seep site to understand the effects these freshwater seepages into the marine environment have on the benthic macrofauna. For her project, she will be working with both the SEAM lab at Dal and the 4D Oceans Lab at MUN
Dr. Ethan Lawler
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
I completed my Ph.D. in Statistics at Dalhousie University under the supervision of Joanna Mills Flemming and Chris Field. I have a strong background in mathematics and have been applying that knowledge to statistical models for marine ecology. My two main areas of research involve developing statistical models and software for analyzing animal movement and species distribution data. Statistical analyses in these areas are challenging due to the noisy and relatively uninformative data typical of the marine environment, as well as computational problems that arise when accounting for correlation across space and time.
I completed my Ph.D. in Statistics at Dalhousie University under the supervision of Joanna Mills Flemming and Chris Field. I have a strong background in mathematics and have been applying that knowledge to statistical models for marine ecology. My two main areas of research involve developing statistical models and software for analyzing animal movement and species distribution data. Statistical analyses in these areas are challenging due to the noisy and relatively uninformative data typical of the marine environment, as well as computational problems that arise when accounting for correlation across space and time.
Dr. Pedro Menandro
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
I graduated from the Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo (Brazil) in Oceanography, where I also worked as a volunteer research assistant in the Marine Geosciences Lab (Labogeo) research group. Since my Oceanography B.Sc., I have been working on different fields related to ocean mapping. Prior to beginning my doctoral research, I earned an MSc in Environmental Oceanography (UFES - Brazil) and worked in coastal hydrography over a few years. I completed my PhD at the Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo (Brazil), spending part of my doctorate as a Visiting Graduate Research Student at Dalhousie University (Halifax, CA). My Ph.D. research focused on the in-depth analysis and development of seafloor classification based on multispectral MBES using machine learning approaches. My currently post-doctoral fellowship aims to investigate multispectral backscatter responses combined with geomorphometric attributes at different spatial scales, exploring different datasets, approaches and seabed classification tools.
I graduated from the Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo (Brazil) in Oceanography, where I also worked as a volunteer research assistant in the Marine Geosciences Lab (Labogeo) research group. Since my Oceanography B.Sc., I have been working on different fields related to ocean mapping. Prior to beginning my doctoral research, I earned an MSc in Environmental Oceanography (UFES - Brazil) and worked in coastal hydrography over a few years. I completed my PhD at the Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo (Brazil), spending part of my doctorate as a Visiting Graduate Research Student at Dalhousie University (Halifax, CA). My Ph.D. research focused on the in-depth analysis and development of seafloor classification based on multispectral MBES using machine learning approaches. My currently post-doctoral fellowship aims to investigate multispectral backscatter responses combined with geomorphometric attributes at different spatial scales, exploring different datasets, approaches and seabed classification tools.
Daniel Ng
Honours Student
Growing up in Richmond, British Columbia, Daniel moved to Halifax in 2020 to pursue a Combined Honours in Marine Biology and Oceanography with a GIS certificate at Dalhousie University. Starting with minimal knowledge in geospatial science, Daniel has developed a passion for seafloor mapping and spatial analysis. In 2023, Daniel worked on mapping benthic habitats at the Bras d’Or Lakes (Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia) in collaboration with Ocean Tracking Network. Daniel aims to examine potential spatial patterns and environmental drivers on Pacific white skate (Bathyraja spinosissima) nurseries at the Galápagos hydrothermal vent fields.
Growing up in Richmond, British Columbia, Daniel moved to Halifax in 2020 to pursue a Combined Honours in Marine Biology and Oceanography with a GIS certificate at Dalhousie University. Starting with minimal knowledge in geospatial science, Daniel has developed a passion for seafloor mapping and spatial analysis. In 2023, Daniel worked on mapping benthic habitats at the Bras d’Or Lakes (Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia) in collaboration with Ocean Tracking Network. Daniel aims to examine potential spatial patterns and environmental drivers on Pacific white skate (Bathyraja spinosissima) nurseries at the Galápagos hydrothermal vent fields.
Dr. Peter Porskamp
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
I completed my PhD at Deakin University in Victoria, Australia. My work focused on creating benthic habitat maps of near shore marine environments using machine learning approaches for Parks Victoria to aid in their management decisions. During my studies I had the opportunity to acquire extensive experience in collecting and processing multibeam echosounder data, as well as collecting ground truthing data required for predictive habitat maps. My post-doctoral fellowship aims to create species distribution models for scallops along Georges Bank through the use bathymetric derivatives, harmonized backscatter and down scaled oceanographic models.
I completed my PhD at Deakin University in Victoria, Australia. My work focused on creating benthic habitat maps of near shore marine environments using machine learning approaches for Parks Victoria to aid in their management decisions. During my studies I had the opportunity to acquire extensive experience in collecting and processing multibeam echosounder data, as well as collecting ground truthing data required for predictive habitat maps. My post-doctoral fellowship aims to create species distribution models for scallops along Georges Bank through the use bathymetric derivatives, harmonized backscatter and down scaled oceanographic models.
Jessica Sajtovich
MSc student
Originally from the Canadian Prairies, I moved to Halifax in 2018 to pursue a BSc in Oceanography at Dalhousie University. During my undergraduate studies, I joined the SEAM lab in 2021 as a student research assistant, focusing on the development of Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVS). My undergraduate Honours project further explored the technological and operational methodologies of these systems, including the impact of different light colours and recording settings on the observations of marine fauna. After completing my degree in 2022, I began my MSc in the SEAM lab, specializing in the application of BRUVS systems for investigating seascape ecology and benthic marine monitoring in coastal locations around Nova Scotia.
Originally from the Canadian Prairies, I moved to Halifax in 2018 to pursue a BSc in Oceanography at Dalhousie University. During my undergraduate studies, I joined the SEAM lab in 2021 as a student research assistant, focusing on the development of Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVS). My undergraduate Honours project further explored the technological and operational methodologies of these systems, including the impact of different light colours and recording settings on the observations of marine fauna. After completing my degree in 2022, I began my MSc in the SEAM lab, specializing in the application of BRUVS systems for investigating seascape ecology and benthic marine monitoring in coastal locations around Nova Scotia.
Emily Sklar
PhD student
Originally from Montreal, I moved to Halifax in 2016 to attend Dalhousie University, where I earned a BSc with Honours in Marine Biology and a minor in Statistics. My research interests are primarily conservation-driven and focus on community ecology and critical habitat use. My honours project focused on shifts in the seasonal distribution of juvenile female blue sharks on the Scotian Shelf in response to increasing ocean temperature. I initially joined the SEAM Lab in 2021 as a Master’s student to study sources and sinks of ghost fishing gear in the Gulf of St Lawrence, but as the project evolved and the scope expanded I decided to transfer into the PhD program. I am now a PhD candidate in Oceanography and my research focuses on broadscale patterns in species distributions in the Gulf of St Lawrence with nested fine scale modelling of community compositions at sponge conservation sites around Anticosti Island.
Originally from Montreal, I moved to Halifax in 2016 to attend Dalhousie University, where I earned a BSc with Honours in Marine Biology and a minor in Statistics. My research interests are primarily conservation-driven and focus on community ecology and critical habitat use. My honours project focused on shifts in the seasonal distribution of juvenile female blue sharks on the Scotian Shelf in response to increasing ocean temperature. I initially joined the SEAM Lab in 2021 as a Master’s student to study sources and sinks of ghost fishing gear in the Gulf of St Lawrence, but as the project evolved and the scope expanded I decided to transfer into the PhD program. I am now a PhD candidate in Oceanography and my research focuses on broadscale patterns in species distributions in the Gulf of St Lawrence with nested fine scale modelling of community compositions at sponge conservation sites around Anticosti Island.
Jake Tan
PhD student
Over the course of my decade-long career in the IT sector, I've seen how rapidly evolving machine learning techniques, combined with improved data collection capabilities, can bring about meaningful improvements to various fields. I am therefore keen to combine my experience in data science and cybersecurity with my love of the ocean to advance the use of machine learning in progressing the ocean sciences.
Prior to joining the SEAM lab in 2021, I earned an MSc in GIS from the University of Aberdeen, where I applied deep learning algorithms to multispectral and SAR satellite data to quantify saltmarsh extents on the west coast of Scotland.
My PhD research will examine artificial intelligence techniques applied to ocean mapping using remote sensing data such as Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) or Multi-beam Echo Sounder (MBES). In particular, I seek to optimise the application of deep learning methods to enhance ocean floor characterization and classification capabilities. I hope to apply my research to improving fisheries management, MPAs management, and other efforts that contribute to ecosystem conservation.
Over the course of my decade-long career in the IT sector, I've seen how rapidly evolving machine learning techniques, combined with improved data collection capabilities, can bring about meaningful improvements to various fields. I am therefore keen to combine my experience in data science and cybersecurity with my love of the ocean to advance the use of machine learning in progressing the ocean sciences.
Prior to joining the SEAM lab in 2021, I earned an MSc in GIS from the University of Aberdeen, where I applied deep learning algorithms to multispectral and SAR satellite data to quantify saltmarsh extents on the west coast of Scotland.
My PhD research will examine artificial intelligence techniques applied to ocean mapping using remote sensing data such as Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) or Multi-beam Echo Sounder (MBES). In particular, I seek to optimise the application of deep learning methods to enhance ocean floor characterization and classification capabilities. I hope to apply my research to improving fisheries management, MPAs management, and other efforts that contribute to ecosystem conservation.
Emma Taniguchi
MSc student
Originally from Markham, Ontario, I moved to Halifax in 2018 to do my undergraduate studies at Dalhousie University. I graduated with an BSc. Honours in Environmental Science, a minor in Oceanography, and a certificate in GIS. After doing my honours in spatially assessing whether hydroelectric dams were disproportionately located near Indigenous and otherwise marginalized communities, I knew I wanted to further explore what other trends could be uncovered using spatial techniques in my graduate studies. This time, I wanted to combine my love for GIS with my growing interest in ocean ecology. My masters work is shared between the SEAM lab and the Kienast lab, where I will be quantify the blue carbon content stored within eelgrass meadows across the shores of Nova Scotia.
Originally from Markham, Ontario, I moved to Halifax in 2018 to do my undergraduate studies at Dalhousie University. I graduated with an BSc. Honours in Environmental Science, a minor in Oceanography, and a certificate in GIS. After doing my honours in spatially assessing whether hydroelectric dams were disproportionately located near Indigenous and otherwise marginalized communities, I knew I wanted to further explore what other trends could be uncovered using spatial techniques in my graduate studies. This time, I wanted to combine my love for GIS with my growing interest in ocean ecology. My masters work is shared between the SEAM lab and the Kienast lab, where I will be quantify the blue carbon content stored within eelgrass meadows across the shores of Nova Scotia.
Milena Wilson
FSWEP Aquatic Science Technician
Growing up on the west coast of British Columbia, my love for the ocean began developing at a young age. This passion drove me to pursue a BSc in Marine Biology at Dalhousie University which advanced my particular interest in fishery management and conservation. I have previously worked as a hatchery technician rearing Coho salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch, to support the fishery’s population. With the SEAM lab in conjunction with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, I am excited to continue growing my skills through the analysis of seafloor videos and the characterization of habitats in marine protected areas that aim to safeguard juvenile lobsters.
Growing up on the west coast of British Columbia, my love for the ocean began developing at a young age. This passion drove me to pursue a BSc in Marine Biology at Dalhousie University which advanced my particular interest in fishery management and conservation. I have previously worked as a hatchery technician rearing Coho salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch, to support the fishery’s population. With the SEAM lab in conjunction with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, I am excited to continue growing my skills through the analysis of seafloor videos and the characterization of habitats in marine protected areas that aim to safeguard juvenile lobsters.
Lab Alumni
Lab Alumni
Catherine Brenan
Honours Student
I am currently pursuing a Combined Honours in Environmental Science and Chemistry with a certificate in GIS at Dalhousie University. I first became fascinated with the ocean when I did a co-op with the Bedford Institute of Oceanography in oil spill research. In this position, I analyzed the interaction of refined fuels and sediment particles in marine environments. Within the SEAM lab, I will model spatial patterns of the seafloor Particulate Organic Carbon (POC) in the Eastern Shore. I am excited by the project since I hope to construct a baseline map for POC, assess spatial linkages with microfauna and bioturbation potential, which helps anticipate future changes in POC stocks.
I am currently pursuing a Combined Honours in Environmental Science and Chemistry with a certificate in GIS at Dalhousie University. I first became fascinated with the ocean when I did a co-op with the Bedford Institute of Oceanography in oil spill research. In this position, I analyzed the interaction of refined fuels and sediment particles in marine environments. Within the SEAM lab, I will model spatial patterns of the seafloor Particulate Organic Carbon (POC) in the Eastern Shore. I am excited by the project since I hope to construct a baseline map for POC, assess spatial linkages with microfauna and bioturbation potential, which helps anticipate future changes in POC stocks.
Sam Cutcliffe
Honours Student
Sam is pursuing an honours in Oceanography at Dalhousie University. Growing up on Prince Edward Island, studying the ocean seemed like a natural choice. For his honours project, he will be analyzing the spacial distribution of benthic communities in the Sambro Bank region.
Sam is pursuing an honours in Oceanography at Dalhousie University. Growing up on Prince Edward Island, studying the ocean seemed like a natural choice. For his honours project, he will be analyzing the spacial distribution of benthic communities in the Sambro Bank region.
Ben DiTrolio
MSc student
I grew up in New England where I developed a fondness for exploring the curious seafloor through diving, snorkeling and spearfishing. Experiencing the diversity of this coastal seascape, with eel grass beds and stretches of sand that give way to random boulders, each supporting different communities of marine life, fixed my interests to the study of seafloor properties and their role in creating and supporting benthic habitats. Following my undergraduate studies in Chemistry and Civil Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, I found the SEAM Lab at Dalhousie preparing to launch the ambitious Benthic Ecosystem Mapping and Engagement (BEcoME) Project, an international, multi-university, and industry research partnership. I am excited to be part of the BEcoME Project and for my niche within it, which is focused on resolving the acoustic backscatter response for different seabed substrate types using multibeam echo sounding (MBES). Identifying the acoustic backscatter response for a particular seafloor composition is complex and dependent on many factors such as frequency, angle, and range to name a few. Our work seeks to evaluate the contribution of these dominant factors by designing controlled experimental MBES surveys coupled with seafloor sampling to ground truth the backscatter response. Being able to identify seafloor composition by backscatter response will allow for more efficient and extensive assessment of benthic habitats in a largely unknown and changing ocean.
I grew up in New England where I developed a fondness for exploring the curious seafloor through diving, snorkeling and spearfishing. Experiencing the diversity of this coastal seascape, with eel grass beds and stretches of sand that give way to random boulders, each supporting different communities of marine life, fixed my interests to the study of seafloor properties and their role in creating and supporting benthic habitats. Following my undergraduate studies in Chemistry and Civil Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, I found the SEAM Lab at Dalhousie preparing to launch the ambitious Benthic Ecosystem Mapping and Engagement (BEcoME) Project, an international, multi-university, and industry research partnership. I am excited to be part of the BEcoME Project and for my niche within it, which is focused on resolving the acoustic backscatter response for different seabed substrate types using multibeam echo sounding (MBES). Identifying the acoustic backscatter response for a particular seafloor composition is complex and dependent on many factors such as frequency, angle, and range to name a few. Our work seeks to evaluate the contribution of these dominant factors by designing controlled experimental MBES surveys coupled with seafloor sampling to ground truth the backscatter response. Being able to identify seafloor composition by backscatter response will allow for more efficient and extensive assessment of benthic habitats in a largely unknown and changing ocean.
Hannah Freeman
Undergraduate Student
I moved to Halifax from Edmonton, AB, to pursue my bachelor’s degree in environmental science. I completed my honours thesis relating to species at risk conservation in my fourth year and am working toward certificates in geographic information science and environmental impact assessment. My interest in GIS and ecological conservation is what brought me to the SEAM lab as a summer student for 2024.
I moved to Halifax from Edmonton, AB, to pursue my bachelor’s degree in environmental science. I completed my honours thesis relating to species at risk conservation in my fourth year and am working toward certificates in geographic information science and environmental impact assessment. My interest in GIS and ecological conservation is what brought me to the SEAM lab as a summer student for 2024.
Leah Fulton
MMM Student
Leah completed a Bachelor of Community Design (hon.) and a certificate in GIS at Dalhousie University. Throughout her studies, she worked as a Research Assistant at the GIS Centre, and worked on various projects such as investigating structural connectivity and land fragmentation using electric circuit theory and various patch metrics in PEI. Leah has a strong interest in how communities are affected by processes stemmed from environmental degradation, which led her to expanding her knowledge to the marine environment. Leah will be working as a Ghost Gear Mapping Research Assistant with Coastal Action on the Collaborative Remediation Project of Abandoned, Lost, and Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG) in Southwest Nova Scotia (https://www.coastalaction.org/ghost-gear.html). She is looking forward to exploring the relationship between bottom type and type of ALDFG as well as mapping benthic habitats using sidescan sonar data.
Leah completed a Bachelor of Community Design (hon.) and a certificate in GIS at Dalhousie University. Throughout her studies, she worked as a Research Assistant at the GIS Centre, and worked on various projects such as investigating structural connectivity and land fragmentation using electric circuit theory and various patch metrics in PEI. Leah has a strong interest in how communities are affected by processes stemmed from environmental degradation, which led her to expanding her knowledge to the marine environment. Leah will be working as a Ghost Gear Mapping Research Assistant with Coastal Action on the Collaborative Remediation Project of Abandoned, Lost, and Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG) in Southwest Nova Scotia (https://www.coastalaction.org/ghost-gear.html). She is looking forward to exploring the relationship between bottom type and type of ALDFG as well as mapping benthic habitats using sidescan sonar data.
Aaron Judah
Research Assistant
Originally from Toronto, Ontario, I came to Dalhousie University in 2018 to pursue an Honours in Marine Biology. My research interests primarily fall under the study of functional ecology, which seeks to understand the roles played by different organisms in an ecosystem and how they support ecosystem functions and services. Through this lens, most of my research work at Dalhousie University has focused on the application of functional traits, which are characteristics of an organisms used to understand how they function in an ecosystem. At the SEAM Lab, I will be assessing the functional structure of benthic assemblages in the Bay of Fundy with a focus on providing conservation priority maps. I aim to support management from a trait-based approach to secure the functional integrity of the Bay of Fundy’s benthic habitats, as well as testing the applicability of machine learning and Bayesian modelling to predict biodiversity patterns across space.
Originally from Toronto, Ontario, I came to Dalhousie University in 2018 to pursue an Honours in Marine Biology. My research interests primarily fall under the study of functional ecology, which seeks to understand the roles played by different organisms in an ecosystem and how they support ecosystem functions and services. Through this lens, most of my research work at Dalhousie University has focused on the application of functional traits, which are characteristics of an organisms used to understand how they function in an ecosystem. At the SEAM Lab, I will be assessing the functional structure of benthic assemblages in the Bay of Fundy with a focus on providing conservation priority maps. I aim to support management from a trait-based approach to secure the functional integrity of the Bay of Fundy’s benthic habitats, as well as testing the applicability of machine learning and Bayesian modelling to predict biodiversity patterns across space.
Zachary MacMillan-Kenny
Research Assistant
After completing my BSc in marine biology at Dalhousie University in 2021, I pursued a MSc in physical geography at Memorial University of Newfoundland and led a benthic habitat mapping project to support Indigenous research priorities in Nain, Nunatsiavut. My research interests are centered around fostering meaningful community collaboration while delving into the ecology and distribution of organisms and habitats in benthic and deep-sea environments. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am also deeply passionate about photography and videography. Joining the SEAM Lab as a research assistant, I will be assisting in mapping the benthic habitats within scallop buffer zones in the Northumberland Strait and popular commercial fishing areas in Banquereau Bank. I aim to intertwine my skillsets and passions to effectively communicate science and convey the importance and beauty of the benthos to a broader audience.
After completing my BSc in marine biology at Dalhousie University in 2021, I pursued a MSc in physical geography at Memorial University of Newfoundland and led a benthic habitat mapping project to support Indigenous research priorities in Nain, Nunatsiavut. My research interests are centered around fostering meaningful community collaboration while delving into the ecology and distribution of organisms and habitats in benthic and deep-sea environments. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am also deeply passionate about photography and videography. Joining the SEAM Lab as a research assistant, I will be assisting in mapping the benthic habitats within scallop buffer zones in the Northumberland Strait and popular commercial fishing areas in Banquereau Bank. I aim to intertwine my skillsets and passions to effectively communicate science and convey the importance and beauty of the benthos to a broader audience.
Pedro Menandro
Ph.D. candidate
I am a Ph.D. candidate in Oceanography at Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (Brazil), and currently, I am a Visiting Graduate Research Student at Dalhousie University (SEAM Lab). Since my Oceanography B.Sc. (in Brazil), I have been working on different fields related to ocean mapping. I currently work on habitat mapping using different datasets with different spatial scales, exploring different approaches and classification tools. My Ph.D. research focuses on thoroughly analyzing and developing the use of MBES multispectral backscatter data for seabed classification, as well as determining the benefits and limitations of backscatter multifrequency data.
I am a Ph.D. candidate in Oceanography at Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (Brazil), and currently, I am a Visiting Graduate Research Student at Dalhousie University (SEAM Lab). Since my Oceanography B.Sc. (in Brazil), I have been working on different fields related to ocean mapping. I currently work on habitat mapping using different datasets with different spatial scales, exploring different approaches and classification tools. My Ph.D. research focuses on thoroughly analyzing and developing the use of MBES multispectral backscatter data for seabed classification, as well as determining the benefits and limitations of backscatter multifrequency data.
Dr. Ben Misiuk
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
My PhD work focused on benthic habitat mapping in the Canadian Arctic, and my interests now includeemerging sonar backscatter techniques and technologies, geomorphometry and multiscale terrain analysis, and machine and deep learning approaches to benthic habitat mapping. My Ocean Frontiers Institute post-doctoral fellowship aims to map benthic habitats in the Northwest Atlantic region to provide information for ecosystem-based management, including single species distributions and also broader “benthoscapes” – akin to terrestrial landscapes. Such data-driven mapping over broad areas is technically and logistically challenging; I am also working to develop novel and efficient approaches for handling diverse multisource datasets, which has only recently become feasible given advances in statistical computing and geospatial modelling techniques.
My PhD work focused on benthic habitat mapping in the Canadian Arctic, and my interests now includeemerging sonar backscatter techniques and technologies, geomorphometry and multiscale terrain analysis, and machine and deep learning approaches to benthic habitat mapping. My Ocean Frontiers Institute post-doctoral fellowship aims to map benthic habitats in the Northwest Atlantic region to provide information for ecosystem-based management, including single species distributions and also broader “benthoscapes” – akin to terrestrial landscapes. Such data-driven mapping over broad areas is technically and logistically challenging; I am also working to develop novel and efficient approaches for handling diverse multisource datasets, which has only recently become feasible given advances in statistical computing and geospatial modelling techniques.
Kate Metcalfe
Honours Student
Growing up in Ottawa, my love for the ocean is what encouraged me to move to the east coast to complete my undergraduate degree at Dalhousie. I am currently completing a BSc with a double major in Environmental Science and Sustainability, with certificates in environmental impact assessment and GIS. In addition to my studies at Dalhousie, I have worked in environmental education on the west coast of Vancouver Island aiming to increase accessibility to environmental science knowledge. I will be completing my honours project with the SEAM lab creating benthic habitat maps of the Northumberland Strait in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and determining how these seafloor models could be used to analyze policy decisions surrounding vulnerable species in this marine protected area
Growing up in Ottawa, my love for the ocean is what encouraged me to move to the east coast to complete my undergraduate degree at Dalhousie. I am currently completing a BSc with a double major in Environmental Science and Sustainability, with certificates in environmental impact assessment and GIS. In addition to my studies at Dalhousie, I have worked in environmental education on the west coast of Vancouver Island aiming to increase accessibility to environmental science knowledge. I will be completing my honours project with the SEAM lab creating benthic habitat maps of the Northumberland Strait in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and determining how these seafloor models could be used to analyze policy decisions surrounding vulnerable species in this marine protected area
Caelin Murray
MSc student
Caelin completed her B.S.c. in Biology at Cape Breton University and later completed an Advanced diploma in GIS and Remote sensing at the Center of Geographic Sciences in 2018. She worked as a LiDAR and remote sensing analyst before returning to school for a master’s degree. Her interest in biology and mapping has led to combining these topics in her thesis which uses acoustic telemetry to examine eels spatial and temporal movements and habitat use.
Caelin completed her B.S.c. in Biology at Cape Breton University and later completed an Advanced diploma in GIS and Remote sensing at the Center of Geographic Sciences in 2018. She worked as a LiDAR and remote sensing analyst before returning to school for a master’s degree. Her interest in biology and mapping has led to combining these topics in her thesis which uses acoustic telemetry to examine eels spatial and temporal movements and habitat use.
Emilio Rosero Mosquera
OTAD Intern
As a third-generation naval officer [retired], I learned very early on that our present and future lies in our oceans. From coordinating and managing Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in the province of Esmeraldas (Ecuador), to using sensors and radars, coordinating operations in marine protected areas in the province of Manabi (Ecuador), and sailing around South America, Cape Horn, and the Galapagos Islands, my experience has provided me a strong foundation covering International and Jurisdictional concerns.
As an Ocean Technologist I have developed a strong passion for underwater imaging systems, which has led me to get into the electronics and imaging sensors field.
As a third-generation naval officer [retired], I learned very early on that our present and future lies in our oceans. From coordinating and managing Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in the province of Esmeraldas (Ecuador), to using sensors and radars, coordinating operations in marine protected areas in the province of Manabi (Ecuador), and sailing around South America, Cape Horn, and the Galapagos Islands, my experience has provided me a strong foundation covering International and Jurisdictional concerns.
As an Ocean Technologist I have developed a strong passion for underwater imaging systems, which has led me to get into the electronics and imaging sensors field.
Julia Smyth
Undergraduate Student
I’m currently completing a BSc Biology at Mount Allison University in New Brunswick. Originally from Halifax, I have always liked the ocean and developed an interest in marine biology during my degree. In the SEAM lab, I will be analyzing Atlantic seafloor imagery to identify and classify benthic biota. The data will be used to study the relationship between seafloor environmental conditions and the spatial patterns in biological communities.
I’m currently completing a BSc Biology at Mount Allison University in New Brunswick. Originally from Halifax, I have always liked the ocean and developed an interest in marine biology during my degree. In the SEAM lab, I will be analyzing Atlantic seafloor imagery to identify and classify benthic biota. The data will be used to study the relationship between seafloor environmental conditions and the spatial patterns in biological communities.
Jack Tsao
Ocean Technologist
Prior to relocating to Nova Scotia, Canada, Jack enjoyed a 16-year career in the software engineering field specializing in Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and system development. While searching for new challenges and opportunities, he changed fields and focus by retraining in mechanical engineering technology and subsequently ocean technology. During the past 7 years, he has primarily focused his work within the ocean sector and applied research. Jack joined the Seascape Ecology & Mapping (SEAM) team in late 2020 to share his varied experience and expertise and to continue leading the development of a Stereo Baited Remote Underwater Video system (Stereo BRUV).
Prior to relocating to Nova Scotia, Canada, Jack enjoyed a 16-year career in the software engineering field specializing in Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and system development. While searching for new challenges and opportunities, he changed fields and focus by retraining in mechanical engineering technology and subsequently ocean technology. During the past 7 years, he has primarily focused his work within the ocean sector and applied research. Jack joined the Seascape Ecology & Mapping (SEAM) team in late 2020 to share his varied experience and expertise and to continue leading the development of a Stereo Baited Remote Underwater Video system (Stereo BRUV).
Molly Wells
Marine Biology Student & Scientific Illustrator
As a marine biology student and as a scientific illustrator, Molly has a special interest in the value of visuals in ocean research, both as a tool for observation and for communication. During her undergraduate studies at Dalhousie University (BSc Marine Biology and Statistics), she completed an internship with the SEAM lab focused on scientific illustration and benthic imagery analysis. Her current work is a continuation of her internship, where she will annotate a benthic imagery dataset from Georges Bank for subsequent use in a deep learning project.
As a marine biology student and as a scientific illustrator, Molly has a special interest in the value of visuals in ocean research, both as a tool for observation and for communication. During her undergraduate studies at Dalhousie University (BSc Marine Biology and Statistics), she completed an internship with the SEAM lab focused on scientific illustration and benthic imagery analysis. Her current work is a continuation of her internship, where she will annotate a benthic imagery dataset from Georges Bank for subsequent use in a deep learning project.
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