Marine benthic macroinvertebrates are collected using a grab sampler or corer. The collected sediment sample is then screened to remove fine-grained sediment, and the macroinvertebrates are hand sorted from the remaining coarse material. The animals are preserved, and later examined under a magnifying lens or dissecting microscope. Organisms are enumerated and identified to the genus, and in many cases, species level.
Studying the macroinvertebrate population at a site provides us with an indication of the biodiversity of the site. It may also assist us in determining whether or not a site is being affected by pollutants or other stressors. Long term macroinvertebrate studies can provide baseline information about an area, and can monitor changes that are occurring.
