Dataset: Locations of fish surveys in the Monterey and Carmel nearshore from 1999-2015 (Larval Dispersal in Kelp Rockfish project)

Sampling consists of visual surveys of the number and size of all non-cryptic fishes by SCUBA divers. Surveys are conducted at sites distributed throughout the study region (Carmel Bay and southern Monterey Bay). Each sample site is divided into four "zones" (by depth - 20m, 15m, 10m, 5m - or from offshore to inshore at sites with little depth variation) to assure that samples are distributed across the face of a reef from inshore to offshore. Where possible, fish are counted on 12 transects per site (defined as a fixed stretch of coastline, occupying approximately 500m). Each "transect" includes a 2m x 2m x 30m "bottom" transect and a "mid-water" transect.