In temperate (colder) water regions, REEF asks surveyors to also monitor a select regional list of invertebrates and algae. This is in addition to monitoring all fish seen during a survey.
- PNW: Pacific Northwest & Alaska
- CAL: California
- NE: Northeast US & Eastern Canada
- SAS: South Atlantic States
- EAM: Eastern Atlantic & Mediterranean
In these regions, surveyors have the option to conduct a Fish Only (FO) survey, an Invertebrates Only (IO) survey, or a Fish and Invertebrates (FI) survey.
When monitoring invertebrates (and algae), record every species observed from the regional list shown on the underwater paper and color ID card. Leaving an invertebrate or algae species unrecorded indicates it was not seen. You can find a list of what is monitored in each temperate region here.
Surveyors at Experience Levels 4 and 5 should consistently conduct Fish and Invertebrates (FI) surveys, though Fish Only or Invertebrates Only surveys are fine once in a while.
For more about the invertebrate and algae monitoring program, visit www.REEF.org/vfsp/invertebrates.