Cemar Routine Monitoring of Macroalgal and Phytoplankton Diversity

We have identified three locations with an exposed and a sheltered
site each. To monitor each site we have devised a system of transect based
stratified sampling (based on the natural zonation of the coastal habitat) to
estimate percent cover of algal species on the beach (useful for a variety of
standard statistical procedures). We are also compiling 'complete' species
inventories during our trips so that we can apply a new type of analyses,
Taxonomic Distinctness, which will allow us to compare our contemporary data to
historical records for the region. Our intention is to maintain this program
over a few decades. This project will, if supported in the long term, provide
a valuable data set for understanding floristics in this important and unique
region. NSERC's recent reallocation has highlighted the critical shortage of
taxonomic experts capable of identifying the organisms that constitute Canada's
biodiversity. The value of biodiversity to society is lost if the know-how to
survey, identify, protect and access available species does not exist.
Furthermore, long-term monitoring is essential if we are going to set a
baseline for future comparisons and distinguish natural patterns of species
fluctuations versus perturbations caused by human impact. Our routine
monitoring of algal biodiversity in the Bay of Fundy is designed to address all
of the previous issues.

Type: Bay

Waterbody or Watershed Names: Bay of Fundy