Intertidal Manual

FERAL OR IN PERIL - INTRODUCTION

Photo: Val Day Intertidal training manual

The Reef Watch Intertidal Program includes a suite of methods, with each one giving us information about different aspects of the reef. The manual explains the purpose of each method and how to undertake them however, in-field training is strongly recommended before taking on any monitoring. The manual also provides a brief background to intertidal rocky reefs and their importance. There is information on ecological sampling, safety matters whilst working on a reef and also what to do before starting. Details of the photopoint surveys (an optional method) is included.

Download the Intertidal Training Manual (Pdf.)

Species ID sheets

The following sheets illustrate each species that we look for during an intertidal monitoring session. Details on their characteristics and size are provided.

Click on a sheet to download (Pdf.)

Sheet 1- Molluscs and crab

Sheet 2 - Aggregate sessile organisms

Sheet 3 - Molluscs 1

Sheet 4 - Brown Algae

Photo: Val Day Sheet 5- Molluscs 2

Sheet 6 - Green Algae

Sheet 7 - Molluscs 3

Sheet 8 - Red algae and seagrass

If you are interested more detailed information about marine flora and fauna here is a list of some useful resources:

Invertebrates and algae Australian Marine Life - the plants and animals of temperate waters, by Graham Edgar, 2000, Reed New Holland (or 1997, Reed Books). http://www.mlssa.asn.au/photos/invertebrate_page1.html

Algae only - Marine Plants of Australia, by John Huisman, 2000, University of WA Press

http://www.algaebase.org/

http://www.seaweed.ie/

http://www.mlssa.asn.au/photos/algae_page1.html

Data sheets

Blank data sheets for you to download and use (Word doc.)

The following data sheets are used in all monitoring sessions. Each datasheet has an example section on how to fill them out. Please spend about five minutes after you have finished your monitoring making sure that all fields are correctly filled out. It is very important that basic information such as your name, location and date are included as this helps us clarify any queries and especially so that the paper work stays together.

intertidal algae