Abstract:
This dataset includes the survey data that were commissioned and collected by Scottish Natural Heritage. Note these data complement other datasets held by JNCC and the other country agencies that used the same methodology. However, this dataset comprises those data that were paid for by SNH directly. The data contributed to the MNCR programme which was initiated to provide a comprehensive baseline
... of information on marine habitats and their associated species around the coast of Britain which would aid coastal zone and sea-use management and to contribute to the identification of areas of marine natural heritage importance. The focus of MNCR work was on benthic habitats (often referred to as 'biotopes') in intertidal and inshore (typically within 3nm) subtidal areas.
Methods of data capture
The majority of data were collected using methods described in the MNCR Rational and Methods report (Hiscock 1996). Broadly, this encompassed surveying a range of sites within a geographical area to sample and describe the variety of habitats present (sampling habitats in different substrata, depths, wave exposures, current regimes, salinity regimes and so on). Each habitat was sampled using semi-quantitative recording techniques (SACFOR abundance scales) for recording epibiota on rocky habitats
Geographical Coverage
This dataset relates to Scotland. Note however that the dataset "Marine Nature Conservation Review (MNCR) and associated benthic marine data held and managed by JNCC" also includes equivalent and complementary data from Scotland.
Size reference: 16,531 records; 780 sites; 1,590 samples; 839 species
[Source: The information provided in the summary was extracted from the MarBEF Data System at http://www.marbef.org/data/eurobisproviders.php] 
