Larval fish data collected during shipboard surveys (NF1001 and NF1002) in 2010 in Vieques Sound, Virgin Passage and surrounding regions.

In conjunction with the Vieques Sound and Virgin Passage Transport Study, the USVI larval distribution and supply study completed its fourth research cruise during February 16 - March 15, 2010. Ichthyoplankton sampling yielded 330 samples (231 MOCNESS and 99 bongo) from 156 stations for a total of 61,611 larvae collected. MOCNESS (Multiple Opening and Closing Environmental Sampling System) samples were collected from 100 m to the surface at 25 m increments, while bongo samples were collected from just below surface (subsurface) for 10-minute intervals at each station. Samples collected using bongo tows for stations surrounding St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix have been successfully identified to taxonomic family level or beyond for a total of 8,107 larvae. It is too early to provide approximate percentage or assemblage compositions, however thus far, 71 families have been successfully identified. Visual identification is ongoing utilizing the most updated taxonomic keys available. A subsample from selected families of interest will be identified using genetic techniques. Coral Reef Ecosystem Research (CRER) Larval fish data collected during NOAA Ship Nancy Foster cruises NF1001 and NF1002 February 16 - March 15, 2010 Excel Table 1) Table with detailed tow data from Bongo net Excel Table 2) Table with detailed tow data from MOCNESS net For further information regarding these samples, please contact: Dr. John Lamkin (john.lamkin@noaa.gov) or Dr. Trika Gerard (trika.gerard@noaa.gov) at NOAA/NMFS/SEFSC/ELH in Miami, Florida