Meiofaunal analysis

Our benthic taxonomists are trained and experienced in both macrobenthic and meiofaunal analysis. This enables us to offer an analytical solution for a much broader range of marine and estuarine habitats.

All meiofaunal analysis is conducted at our purpose-built laboratory facilities designed for highly efficient sample processing and reduced lead times for our clients.

The data generated is stored in our bespoke data management system ABACUS which is integrated with the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS). This ensures our taxonomists work with the most up to date and authoritative information in real time.

They also have an extensive collection of taxonomic keys which, with the efficient sample tracking of the cloud-based ABACUS system, enables them to process high volumes of samples while maintaining the highest quality standards.

[Sidebar] Why Meiofauna?

Meiofauna (also known as meiobenthos) are difficult to study because they are so small: they are 30-500 µm long and so require specialist techniques for their extraction and identification.

Consequently, they are less easily used as indicators of environmental impacts than the larger and more accessible macrobenthos.

But impoverished sediments, such as those found in harbours or high-energy estuaries, often lack macrobenthic assemblages. This makes them invaluable as indicators in these habitats.