Updating the Continuous Plankton Recorder: an improved tool for integrated plankton monitoring

Abstract

After providing unique records of plankton distribution for over 60 years, the Continuous Plankton Recorder survey needs to be updated in order to obtain improved information on vertical distribution and abundance of plankton, the physico-chemical environment, and on microplankton. To meet these requirements, a new body has been developed with the capability to undulate and carry a larger payload whilst retaining the ability to be deployed from ships of opportunity. To improve estimates of abundance, miniature current meters have been developed to quantify flow through the sampler mechanisms. An appropriate suite of environmental sensors has been identified and a suitable microplankton sampler mechanism has been developed. The new body (U-Tow) has been successfully deployed in undulating mode with the standard plankton sampler mechanism and a range of environmental sensors. The microplankton sampler prototype has been built. This system will be integrated with smart logger and sensor system allowing a sample to be taken dependent upon externally measured environmental conditions.