The DeepPIV (particle image velocimetry) instrument consists of a laser and optics that illuminates a sheet of fluid. Using the MiniROV’s high-definition science camera to capture the motion of suspended particles in the laser sheet, the motion of fluid can be quantified. In addition, gelatinous structures (such as larvacean mucus houses) can be revealed as shown in the above frame from video footage.
PIV provides a visualization technique where fluid motion is measured and can be used to directly quantify filtration rates and carbon flux by individual larvaceans. These interactions are relevant to mating, predation, feeding, biomechanics and swimming performance, nutrient transport, and carbon fluxes in the ocean.
