La ‘soucoupe plongeante’, engin de prospection biologique sous-marine

Abstract

The Costeau's ‘diving saucer’ is now ready for diving down to 900ft. The first scientific dive in Ajaccio Bays has given the opportunity of a short account on the vertical distribution of animals and algae, both on rocky and soft bottoms from 15 fathoms down to 100 fathoms deep. The engine seems easy to drive and allows observations on substratum at a very short distance if necessary; its speed is adequate for a quick survey of a large area of bottom where the flora and fauna are well known. The diving saucer seems less adequate for plankton investigations.