Dataset: McMurdo epifauna

Sample images were collected by SCUBA divers during the austral spring between September and November each year. To quantify common species we used ten replicate still images, and cropped each image to cover 1 m2. To quantify rare species we used three replicate transects encompassing 10 m2 each. For the cryptic species Laternula elliptica P. P. King, we made in situ counts in six replicate 0.25 m2 areas. Species that could not be counted as individuals were not quantified (e.g. some hydroids, bryozoans, and sponges). Organisms visible in each quadrat or transect were identified to the lowest possible taxonomic category and enumerated. Taxonomy follows that of the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS, http://www.marinespecies.org/about.php). Individual taxa were counted in either quadrats or transects, depending on abundance. The counts were area-adjusted and combined into a single megafaunal data set.

Two 4 cm diameter, 5 cm deep cores were collected, one for grainsize analysis which was refrigerated until processing, and one for carbon and nitrogen analysis that was frozen until analysis. Results and methodology of grainsize, carbon and nitrogen analysis can be found in the dataset "McMurdo sediment" https://www.bco-dmo.org/dataset/746035.