1 Scope
This International Standard provides guidelines on the quantitative collection and
processing of subtidal soft-bottom macrofaunal samples in marine waters.
This International Standard encompasses:
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a) development of the sampling programme;
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b) requirements for sampling equipment;
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c) sampling and sample treatment in the field;
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d) sorting and species identification;
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e) storage of collected and processed material.
This International Standard does not specifically address the following, although
some elements may be applicable:
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— bioassay sub-sampling;
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— deep water (>750 m) or offshore sampling;
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—
in situ faunal studies, e.g. recolonization assays;
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— non-benthic organisms caught in the sampling device;
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— estuarine sampling;
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— intertidal sampling;
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— meiofaunal sampling and analysis (see Reference [9]);
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— sampling by dredge and sledge;
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— self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) sampling;
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— statistical design.
Accuracy of position fixing is determined by the geographical area, equipment used
and survey objective.