Species composition and sediment properties of maerl beds habitats in Falmouth Harbour, UK using towed underwater video and diver cores (2011 - 2013)

This dataset comprises of marine epibenthos and endobenthos (identified taxa derived from Algae, Annelida, Arthropoda, Bryozoa, Chordata, Echinodermata, Hemichordata, Mollusca, Nematoda, Nemertea, Phoronida, Porifera and Sipuncula), associated with maerl beds in Falmouth Harbour, UK. Additional data on sediment (organic content and particle size) and the porosity of maerl found at the sites are also provided. Surveys were conducted to assess the extent, distribution and species composition of maerl bed habitats within the harbour, in response to proposed dredging activities to deepen the shipping channel. Transects were undertaken using a high definition towed underwater video system in November 2011 and February 2012. Core samples collected by divers September - November 2012 and July - August 2013 were used to further assess habitat quality and species distribution by quantifying the abundance of infauna and analysing organic content, particle size and maerl structure.