AQUACOSM: Network of Leading European AQUAtic MesoCOSM Facilities, Deliverable No 4.1: Standardised protocols (SOPs) on data collection, data quality and assurances and processing. Version 1.4.

Abstract

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) describes methods for sampling, and analysis of phytoplankton from mesocosm experiments carried out in all aquatic environments (fresh and marine waters). It gathers best practice advice with a focus on sampling, counting and other analyses of phytoplankton as well as Quality Assurance/ Quality Control (QA/QC) practices. This SOP is based on EU Water Framework Directive and other related documents. It is designed to be compliant with this EU Directive (2000/06/EC) [1]. Use of this SOP will ensure consistency and compliance in collecting and processing phytoplankton data from mesocosm experiments across the AQUACOSM community, in Europe and beyond. This SOP covers guidance on health, safety and environmental information, best practice advice on materials and methodology and QA/QC procedures to be followed during the sampling, analysis and counting of phytoplankton samples from mesocosm experiments. It applies only to the phytoplankton microscope investigation of the identification, composition, abundance, and biovolume estimation of phytoplankton samples.