Welcome to the October edition of the Mm2 Newsletter.
What is YOUR shore like?
Do you live by a rocky shore, or is it sandy or muddy? Different habitats support different animals and plants. On a rocky shore many of the animals live on or under rocks, but on a muddy shore most of the creatures are under the surface - and that is why we have developed different methods of surveying a metre square patch.
A metre square can easily be marked out using a rope, though scientists often use a metal quadrat to measure a metre square. The problem with a metal quadrat is that you cannot fold it up, so it is hard to fit it into a car if you have to take it into the field. We have developed a folding quadrat, and there have been so many requests for information about how to make one that we have drawn up a DIY instruction sheet.
New Zealand has the most southernly Mangrove forests in the world.
Mangrove ecosystems are home to many creatures, and we'd love to see what you find there!
Don't forget that there is a blog on the Marine Metre Squared website where you can post your photographs and stories, and if you have questions about the animals and plants you find, the blog is checked regularly by marine scientists who will do their best to answer them.
Take part in Conservation Week by getting into nature to refresh your body and mind - and what better way than carrying out a survey on your local shore!
Conservation Week is 1-8 November 2015
This year's theme is Healthy Nature Healthy People.
