🐾 Fauna / Biodiversity Observation (Ecosystem: Mangrove)

Log fish and invertebrate observations along transects (lines) or inside areas (AOIs). This protocol fits mangrove fauna work and general biodiversity passes.

What you need first

• Organisation and Project (Org, Project)
• A Site set to Mangrove with geometry (Site)
• A Survey Plan for Fauna Observation (lines or polygons) (Plan)
• Transects or AOIs set up in the plan

Screenshot: Choosing a Fauna Observation plan

Field workflow (belt/AOI example)

1. Follow the planned transect or cover the AOI at steady speed.
2. For each taxon:
   • Record Genus or Species (use species when certain).
   • Add Count (estimate schools consistently).
   • Optionally add Size classes (e.g., 0–5, 6–10, 11–20 cm).
   • Note behaviour/habitat or unusual sightings.
3. Keep the same width/speed and observation rules each visit.

Data entry in MariMap

1. Create a survey from the Fauna Observation plan (https://marimap.com/app/surveys/new (opens in a new tab)).
2. Confirm Site, Date, and Survey ID.
3. The plan pulls in your transects/AOIs. For each:
   • Add genus/species entries, counts, optional size bins, and notes.
4. Review and save.

Screenshot: Entering genus/species counts with size classes

Tips for good data

• Agree on a size-bin scheme and stick to it across dives and seasons.
• Use the same transect length/width or AOI boundaries for comparability.
• If unsure on ID, log the genus and note distinguishing features for later QA.
• Video or photos help validate counts; note camera path/speed if used.