McMurdo Sound Sediment Studies.

This is a continuation of last years programme to obtain undisturbed representative samples of the floor of McMurdo Sound. The samples are to be studied for their foraminiferal content, so that the ecological factors controlling their populations structure can be assessed. Also the variation in physical character of the sediments is being studied.

Sampling is to be carried out from a tractor-drawn wannigan. An auger for cutting 33cm access holes in the sea ice has been constructed, and the trigger for the sphincter corer, which gave a lot of trouble last season, has been redesigned. Underwater photography through the access hole will also be attempted.

Bathymetric, tidal and current information is also be be collected.