Recording Numbers of Cover of Named Species

Methodology for recording the numbers or cover of named species is similar to that for general quantitative sampling. For large and conspicuous epifaunal species, divers with quadrats or towed video surveys are probably the most efficient methods. Determining numbers, cover or biomass of small species requires sampling and laboratory sorting. However, sample sorting can be greatly speeded up if only one or a few species are being quantified. The relative amounts of different maerl species, particularly of the large Lithophyllum species, could be determined to some extent by video survey.

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