Methods of Plankton Collection and a Description of a New Sampler

Abstract

A discussion of the composition and distribution of plankton organisms forms a basis for the presentation of a critical review of methods of plankton collection. The quantitative sampling of plankton by pumps, water samplers, tow nets, plankton traps and the Clarke-Bumpus sampler is discussed. Data of a comparative nature dealing with some of the more usual methods are presented. A new instrument, the Toronto Sampler, developed at the Ontario Fisheries Research Laboratory, is described and its performance is assessed.