Dataset: McMurdo Marine Benthos
Deployment: McMurdo_scuba_1988

Sampling and Analytical Methodology: 
Benthic fauna were collected by divers in six replicate 0.0075 sq m (0.98 cm diameter) cores. Samples were taken in austral spring (1 November to 10 December).  The samples were sieved live on 0.5 mm mesh, fixed in 10% buffered formalin, and preserved in 70% ethanol. Identifications were to species level wherever possible, with the exclusion of large meiofauna (nematodes and harpacticoid copepods).  Great care was taken in each step of processing not to lose a single animal; QA/QC procedures included spot check reviews of sample residue, periodic sample recounts, and updating taxonomy as name changes and new species were published in the literature.  Locations pre-2001 were determined from shore lineups and are not as accurate as locations post-2001 that were located with GPS.