Benthic Specimen Survey of Northern Australia

October 15-24, 2012 survey collected 261 voucher specimens of benthic marine life during a transit between Darwin and Cairns. The Australian Ocean Data Network published a report detailing the collection of sponges, cnidarians, and other invertebrates for biodiversity and biodiscovery research. Sampling focused on two areas within the proposed Wessel Islands Commonwealth Marine Reserve.

Use Cases

• Analyze species distribution patterns using reported biomass data (e.g., ~139 kg of sponges) across different surveyed areas.
• Study community composition by comparing voucher specimen counts for taxonomic groups like sponges (93 vouchers) and cnidarians (73 vouchers).
• Identify sampling locations for biodiscovery based on the report's description of areas with diverse sessile invertebrate communities.
• Assess habitat characteristics using described substrate types (e.g., muddy gravel) and associated fauna like crinoids, skates, and demersal fish.

Strengths

• 261 voucher specimens collected provide a concrete sample set for analysis.
• Survey details specific biomass figures (~139 kg of sponges) and specimen counts per taxonomic group.
• Clear spatial context provided for two distinct sampling areas within a proposed marine reserve.

Limitations

• No raw structured data (e.g., CSV) is provided, only descriptive report documents.
• Sample size is limited to a single, short survey effort of less than 24 hours.
• Geographic coverage is restricted to a specific transit path in Northern Australia.

Provenance

Source

Australian Ocean Data Network

Collection Method

Specimens collected using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and benthic sled during a research vessel transit.

Time Range

October 15-24, 2012

Freshness

null

Geography

Marine areas between Darwin and Cairns, Northern Australia, including a bank and terrace/hole feature.