Neuston Net Research Collective – December 2024
DISCOVERY Yacht Freeranger
La Paz, Mexico
December, 2024
Purpose of Research
In November 2022, The International SeaKeepers Society launched the Neuston Net Research Collective to assist marine researchers with widespread sample collection. Vessels are equipped with neuston or plankton nets to collect neustonic organisms such as Blue Button Jellyfish and Portuguese Man-o-War for Dr. Rebecca Helm of Georgetown University. These vessels allow for more robust data sets that our researchers will benefit from to further their marine studies and aid in the conservation of our oceans.
Program Overview
DISCOVERY Yacht Freeranger will be transiting the Pacific Ocean while collecting neustonic samples for Dr. Rebecca Helm using a neuston net from the International SeaKeepers Society. Dr. Helm will analyze these samples via detailed photographs to understand the presence of life at the ocean surface, especially in gyres and garbage patches. Little is known about the surface ecosystem and the collection of this data may help inform the creation of new Marine Protected Areas to protect this biodiversity.
Duration of Project
Ongoing
Location
Mexico to French Polynesia
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