Benthic Network

These observations, which concern data relating to spatial extension and to fauna and flora distribution, are common to various needs : accidental pollutions, protected marine reserves, Water Directive, integrated management. The entire French seawaters are likely to be concerned by the project. But regarding the new acquisitions tidal zones and coastal waters have been singled out as priority areas, in the framework of the Water Directive, thus concentrating as much attention as possible on the protected marine reserves.

The following parameters are taken into consideration when selecting seabed habitats / biocenosis : representativeness, importance of ecology, sensitivity and vulnerability. <u>Distribution tools concerning data:</u> Methods, protocols and reference documents are drawn up, as well as data bank tools (Quadrige² database specifications for benthic data) and distribution tools (interactive maps, monitoring reports, etc), via the Internet.

This network is national and part of a strong international drive. Today, numerous partners are members of the project, either at the financial level or at the scientific and technical levels. Brittany is the pilot-region and the first operations started in 2003.

Action plans are being gradually implemented in the other regions.