Sampling and assessment of benthic species and seabed in the German EEZ

Background and Objective

The spatial distribution of benthic biotopes is largely dependent on the sediment composition of the seabed. There is therefore an urgent need for detailed information on the sediment types occurring in the German EEZ as a basis for benthic biotope mapping, which is necessary for the national implementation of the European directives on the protection of flora, fauna and habitats (FFH) and for measures under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The Thünen Institute of Sea Fisheries carries out regular monitoring programs in the German EEZ of the North Sea. As part of the project, synergies are to be created in cooperation with other federal authorities by expanding these monitoring programs to include sedimentological investigations for benthic biotope mapping.

Another focus of the project is the further development of non-invasive sampling strategies for benthic communities, which will be tested in practice in the German EEZ. The increasing need for exploitation and protection in the North Sea makes biological sampling using conventional, invasive methods more difficult. There is therefore an urgent need for alternative sampling methods in order to be able to fulfil official monitoring obligations in the entire EEZ in the future. 

Target Group

EU, ICES, Federal States ("Bundesländer")

Approach

• Sedimentological characterization by means of grab sampling and subsequent granulometric analysis supplemented by hydroacoustic investigations. 
• Analysis of eDNA with qualitative and quantitative validation of the benthic fauna and implementation of the results in official monitoring programs.

Our Research Questions

• What is the sediment composition in the German EEZ of the North Sea and how does it influence the spatial distribution of benthic biotopes?
• To what extent are genetic methods suitable for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of benthic fauna?
• How can non-invasive sampling methods be implemented in official monitoring programs?