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The use of meiobenthos in marine pollution monitoring programmes - AE0210
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Description
R&D
Summary Objectives:-
Examine how meiobenthic communities respond to marine
pollution with a view to using meiobenthos (orgaisms <0.5mm)
in routine monitoring programmes as indicators of
anthropogenic influences.
Key customer purpose:-
This is to provide MAFF with an improved method of assessing
and monitoring the biological effects of pollutants on
benthic communities.
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Objective
Phase 1
1. Analysis of material to determine the taxonomic level at
which the multivariate and univariate response to pollution
can be detected. By this means we would hope to establish
protocols for future monitoring programmes by non-experts in
the taxonomy of meiobenthos.
2. Development of 'stress indices' which are appropriate to
the meiobenthos. Determine the specificity of meiobenthic
responses to particular classes of pollutants ( e.g. organic
enrichment vs. chemical contamination).
3. Assess significance of any changes, and predictive capab
ility from the analysis of spatial and temporal trends. Re
late changes to those of the macrobenthos and fish, to
address potential resource implications.
4. Assess cost/benefits.
Phase 2 (Subject to the successful outcome of phase 1).
5. Development of taxonomic keys which will enable the
identification of the meiobenthos to the appropriate
level by non-specialists, thus widening the utility of the
techniques.
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Time-Scale and Cost
From:
1991
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To:
1995
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Cost: £249,400 |
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Contractor / Funded Organisations
Natural Environment Research Council |
Keywords
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Fields of Study
Environmental Protection - Marine |