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The value of closed-circuit rebreathers for biological research

January 1, 2016

Closed-circuit rebreathers have been used for underwater biological research since the late 1960s, but have only started to gain broader application within scientific diving organizations within the past two decades. Rebreathers offer certain specific advantages for such research, especially for research involving behavior and surveys that depend on unobtrusive observers or for a stealthy approach to wildlife for capture and tagging, research that benefits from extended durations underwater, and operations requiring access to relatively deep (>50 m) environments (especially in remote locations). Although many institutions have been slow to adopt rebreather technology within their diving programs, recent developments in rebreather technology that improve safety, standardize training requirements, and reduce costs of equipment and maintenance, will likely result in a trend of increasing utilization of rebreathers for underwater biological research.

Publication Year 2016
Title The value of closed-circuit rebreathers for biological research
Authors Richrad L. Pyle, Phillip S. Lobel, Joseph A. Tomoleoni
Publication Type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Index ID 70191876
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Western Ecological Research Center