In situ quantitative sampling of benthic organisms

Abstract

1. The burrowing range of some infaunal animals and their accessibility to benthic sampling instruments is briefly considered. 2. An excavation depth of > 50 cm is deemed necessary for effective sampling of most deposits. 3. A diver-operated suction-sampler is described and evaluated. This 'air-lift' was used most successfully over a wide range of substrates. 4. Constructional and operational details are given for a new 'minimum-disturbance' core sampler. © 1973 Biologischen Anstalt Helgoland.