Twenty-four sampling stations on the inter-tidal zone of the Inner Solway Firth, between Dorknockbrow and Arbigland (54° 53'N, 3° 11'W to 54° 54'N, 3° 34'W)

Insect and earthworm taxonomy-related ash-free dry weight biomass per unit area of the littoral zone; Insect and earthworm taxonomy-related abundance per unit area of the littoral zone; Insect and earthworm taxonomy-related abundance per unit area of the bed; Insect and earthworm taxonomy-related ash-free dry weight biomass per unit area of the bed; Sediment grain size parameters; Inorganic chemical composition of sediment or rocks

Unconsolidated sediment corers; atomic absorption spectrometers; in-situ particle sizers

This is an annual survey of 24 sampling points on the inter-tidal zone of the Inner Solway Firth. The purpose of the survey is to assess the effects of several industrial discharges and to assess the general ecological health of the Firth. The assessments are made by means of a study of the invertebrate communities, particle size characteristics and measurements of trace metals in sediments. The invertebrates are identified to species level where possible. Identification and sample sorting quality assessment is through inter-river board ring tests and inter-calibration samples. This is enhanced by attendance at appropriate identification workshops. The best available keys are used and a reference collection is being established.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Stirling Office
Strathallan House
Stirling

FK9 4TZ
United Kingdom