62. 



ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF 

 OCS RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT 



Some of the environmental parameters responsible for 

 variations in epifaunal distribution are now known. However, 

 knowledge concerning the causative agents of many of the 

 variations observed is still far from complete. The patchy 

 distribution of many of the major faunal components precludes 

 accurate prediction as to their location and abundance. This 

 problem is largely due to the paucity of correlative fine 

 scale environmental information concerning the physical and 

 chemical processes of slope and canyon habitats. The lack 

 of this information substantially hampers meaningful inter- 

 polation from one area to another. These factors combine to 

 make assessment of the environmental impact of resource 

 development premature. 



The results of the field program substantiate the findings 

 of the historical survey. Canyon habitats are unique in that 

 they provide suitable environmental parameters to support 

 large populations of filter-feeders, namely corals and sponges. 

 As a result resource development that alters the characteristics 

 of the water column in the vicinity of large canyon systems 

 could be detrimental to their faunal assemblages. Generally, 

 filter-feeders are sessile and have precise substrate require- 

 ments. Thus, environmental change that affects substrate 

 characteristics could also prove to be detrimental. 



