Sorting and identification of infauna:
The sediment sample is soaked in formalin solution with diluted Rose Bengal and left in the refrigerator to be ready for sorting. Sorting of the sample is undertaken in the laboratory under a magnifier and all recognized animals are collected and kept in a separate container for identification.
A stereo zoom microscope with 45X is used to identify the specimens. The microscope is fitted with a camera and linked to a computer where some representative photos can be taken. Infauna are identified to the lowest possible taxon.
Results are presented in an Excel sheet table.