Standard Practice for Collecting Benthic Macroinvertebrates with the Basket Sampler

1.1 This practice covers procedures for obtaining qualitative and quantitative samples of macroinvertebrates in rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs. The device can be used in areas in which no other method is feasible.

1.2 Basket samplers are usually colonized by a wide variety of macroinvertebrates that actively and passively enter the current or the water column.

1.3 The method described in this practice facilitates the standardization of collection procedures at sampling sites and is excellent for water quality monitoring purposes. Standardized sampling is especially desirable when the results from different investigators and environments are to be compared.

1.4 The materials used in the basket sampler are natural or artificial materials of various compositions and configurations. The device is placed in water for a predetermined exposure period and depth for the colonization of macroinvertebrate communities.

1.5 The basket sampler can be used alone or can effectively augment bottom substrate sampling, because many of the physical variables encountered in bottom sampling are minimized (for example, variable depth and light penetration, temperature differences, and substrate types).

1.6 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.