The purpose of this manual is to provide a framework for the assessment of ecosystem health that may be adapted, or used in whole or part for application to other regions. Methods are provided for all aspects from sampling design to laboratory analysis in great detail. The manual is divided into two sections, stressors and bioindicators, which are broken down into target components, with each component further broken down into sub-sections, as follows: Introduction: familiarizes the reader with the component or species, its background or ecological significance in the localized ecosystem, and why it was chosen as an indicator. Sampling Design: describes how sampling was conducted for each component including numbers of samples collected, seasons sampled, and site selection. Metrics: provides a brief overview of each protocol used when collecting samples, with references and links to more specific methodology. Methods: describes specific protocols for collecting, processing, and ingredients and formulas which are specific to species/sample and equipment. Minor modifications may be necessary when adapting methods to specific needs. An appendix with field data sheets and photographs that illustrate crab shell lesions is also included.
DATA/REPORT DETAILS
National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science Coastal Ecosystem Assessment Program: A Manual of Methods
- Published on:
- Science Area(s): Climate Impacts on Ecosystems, Coastal Change, Ecological and Biogeographic Assessments, Marine Spatial Ecology, Vulnerability and Risk Assessment
- Region(s) of Study: Chesapeake Bay, Choptank River, Maryland, U.S. States and Territories, Waterbodies
- Primary Contact(s): andrew.leight@noaa.gov, gretchen.messick@noaa.gov, john.jacobs@noaa.gov, lonnie.gonsalves@noaa.gov, shawn.mclaughlin@noaa.gov
Citation:
Messick, G.A., J.M. Jacobs, J.R. Brush, S.M. McLaughlin, A.K. Leight, M.R. Rhodes, D.H. Howard, L. Gonsalves, and E.J. Lewis
Messick, G.A., J.M. Jacobs, J.R. Brush, S.M. McLaughlin, A.K. Leight, M.R. Rhodes, D.H. Howard, L. Gonsalves, and E.J. Lewis
Data/Report Type:
NOAA Technical Memorandum
NOAA Technical Memorandum
Description
Note to readers with disabilities: Some scientific publications linked from this website may not conform to Section 508 accessibility standards due to the complexity of the information being presented. If you need assistance accessing this electronic content, please contact the lead/corresponding author, Primary Contact, or nccos.webcontent@noaa.gov.