Abstract:
Transect sampling of surface and 5-10cm depth of the soils in the vicinity of seal carcases in the Miers Valley was carried out. Samples were analysed to assess the impact of local carbon/nitrogen sources on microbial diversity and biomass. It was proposed that microbial diversity is influenced by the known C and N limitations in Dry Valley mineral soils. In situ ATP analysis of transect samples
... was conducted. In the 04/05 season, a site was located and mapped that had the highest concentration of mummified seal in one area (50). Peripheral soils associated with the seals were sampled in an effort to resolve more clearly the effect on microbial metabolism and the extent of the impact. Transect sampling was conducted on surface soils in the vicinity of 7 selected seal carcasses. An additional 8 were spot sampled only where the seal actually contacts the soil surface. 
