A versatile pump-sampler for live zooplankton

The sampler consists of a readily interchangeable nylon-mesh sleeve mounted on the suction of a submersible pump. The unit is compact and robust, with the mesh totally protected from external damage. Although designed primarily for use in the intakes and outfalls of power stations, this sampler and the variants described could find more general application. The incorporation of a submersible pump circumvents both the suction lift restriction and the problems associated with plankton travel through long lengths of hose that are inherent in previous designs. Less than 3% of the members of estuarine/inshore zooplankton so collected showed damage or had died within 48 hours of capture.