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: -development of the sampling programme; -requiremen ts for sampling equipment; -sampling and sample treatment in the field; -sorting and species identification; -storage of collected and processed material. This International Standard does not specifically address the following, although some elements may be applicable: -bioassay sub-sampling; -deep water ( >750 m) or offshore sampling; - in situ faunal studies, e.g. recolonisation assays; -nonbenthic organisms caught in the sam pling device; - estuarine sampling; -intertidal sampling; - meiofaunal sampling and analysis [3] ; -sampling by dredge and sledge; -Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SC UBA) sampling; -statistical design. Accuracy of position fixing is determined by the geographical area, equipment used and survey objective.