Aquascope

Inspiration

Visit a beach

Explore!

On sandy beaches the substrate is often so soft that it is easy to dig in. Many organisms do it and spend a great deal of their lives dug down into the substrate. You may already have an idea that there are organisms down there because you have seen their piles of excrement, holes and siphons.

Simple tools

Bucket and spade

To be able to do the things that have already been described no equipment is required, but if you get a pen and paper you can note everything you have seen, even draw. Photo and video cameras are also very usefull and very valuable in connection to your research. It is important that you document your discoveries and with a pocket lens you can see fantastic things. A pocket lens helps you study small things and see all the detail. A pair of tweezers makes it easier to handle small objects.
   To make it easier to catch organisms in the water or on the bottom, a net is recommended. There are cheaps nets that can be bought in most stores, but it probably will not last very long if it is dragged along the bottom. In the long run it can be cheaper if you buy a more expensive model with a more sturdy frame and the net bottom comprising a metal mesh. A cheap net can nevertheless last a long time if you take care of it. When you want to catch something that is on the bottom, a spade and a sieve maybe more suitable.
   If you want to take your catch home or to school, you will probably need plastic bags, jars, buckets and bowels. Transparent bags and jars are usually the best because you are able to see the contents. To make it easier to see both light and dark objects, a good idea is to have both black and white bowels with you to the beach.

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Aquaint yourself with the beach

Search thoroughly

Look under?

Simple tools

Variation and change


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© Aquascope 2000   Tjärnö Marine Biological Laboratory, Strömstad, Sweden
Bo Johannesson | Martin Larsvik | Lars-Ove Loo | Helena Samuelsson