Chemical and Biological Sensors for Time-Series Research: Current Status and New Directions

Abstract

Ocean observatories will require extensive use of sensors and sensing systems to enable time-series observations and interactive experiments on remote permanent and mobile platforms. In this paper we assess the "readiness" of chemical and biological sensors that will be critical to the success of ocean observatories. We conclude that although there have been many technological advances in the development of sensors in recent years, few chemical or biological sensors are capable of long-term deployment (∼ 1 year). In particular, sensors in coastal regions and near hydrothermal vents will need to be regularly serviced for biofouling for the foreseeable future, while sensors on deep-water observatories that spend limited time in the euphotic zone may be able to operate for longer periods. A number of exciting new technologies hold great promise for sensors in the years to come. Significant effort and resources, however, are urgently needed for sensor development to ensure that the opportunities for science and discovery made accessible by ocean observatories are fully realized.