An Epibenthic Sledge for Operations on Marine Soft Bottom and Bedrock

Abstract

A multi-purpose epibenthic sledge, designed for sampling of small benthic macrofauna in marine habitats and at any navigable depth, is presented. The new epibenthic sledge operates reliably on soft sediments in shallow and in open oceanic deep water, as well as on steep slopes, between rocks and glacier moraines as frequently found in Antarctic waters, and on primary hard substrate. The construction is of high mechanical stability with fully protected nets. In case of damage, parts of the sledge can be replaced or repaired easily on board. A description of the gear with a detailed construction plan, as well as parameters for handling in diverse marine habitats, is given. Calculation of the towing distance and first results with possible sources of errors are discussed.