Underwater Television—A Tool for the Marine Biologist

The difficulties, encountered in carrying out any type of biological research directly in the ocean, are many and varied, indeed. To reduce this impact for one rather small but rapidly developing field—animal behavior—various tools now provide scientists the opportunity not only to observe, directly, phenomena of interest, but also to collect data over sufficient periods of time so that meaningful analyses are assured. One such tool, underwater television, has been a most important tool for various phases of behavioral research carried out at the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami. The rationale for its use in these programs is discussed, and a brief history of the evolution of this tool is provided.