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CONTENTS

ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION
Background
Purpose and Scope
NATIONAL WATER-QUALITY ASSESSMENT PROGRAM SAMPLING DESIGN
SAMPLING DESIGN FOR ALGAL COMMUNITIES
Establishing Sampling Reaches
Types of Samples Collected
Periphyton Microhabitats
Appropriate Season and Hydrologic Conditions for Sampling
METHODS FOR COLLECTING ALGAL SAMPLES
Qualitative Multihabitat Periphyton Samples
Quantitative Targeted-Habitat Periphyton Samples
Richest-Targeted Habitats
Epilithic periphyton microhabitats
Epidendric periphyton microhabitats
Epiphytic periphyton microhabitats
Macroalgae
Depositional-Targeted Habitats
Using Artificial Substrates to Collect Periphyton
Quantitative Phytoplankton Samples
SAMPLE PROCESSING AND LABELING
Preservative for Algal Samples
Sample Identification Codes and Labeling
Preparation of Subsamples
Procedure for Decanting Quantitative Periphyton Samples
Filtration Procedure for Chlorophyll and Ash-Free
Dry Mass Determinations
CONTRACT LABORATORIES AND THE BIOLOGICAL QUALITY-ASSURANCE UNIT
SUMMARY
REFERENCES

ILLUSTRATIONS

Figure
• 1. Diagram showing hypothetical location of a basic fixed site and three associated sampling reaches used for intensive ecological assessments
• 2. Example of a field data sheet to record sampling information during collection of qualitative multihabitat periphyton samples
• 3. Example of a completed sample label
• 4. Diagrams of quantitative periphyton-sampling equipment
• 5. Example of a two-page field data sheet to record sampling information during collection of quantitative periphyton samples from richest- or depositional-targeted habitats