Temperature can not be calibrated but its performance was checked. The data sondes were set in 
a flow through seawater bath in the laboratory for multiple readings immediately before 
deployment and upon return to the lab. The temperature and salinity of the water bath were 
cross-checked using an independent YSI handheld unit (YSI 650 or 556). All QA/QC 
calibration data and ancillary metadata are recorded in an Access database. The calibration 
accuracy for conductivity and turbidity is defined as the accuracy of the probe in a standard 
solution. Post deployment accuracy is defined as the accuracy of the probes after they are 
retrieved from the field and are tested against the known standard solutions. 
Table B.5 Precision and Accuracy (expressed as percentage) of YSI Multiparameter Sondes. 
Temperature 
Salinity 
Conductivity 
Turbidity 
DO 
Calibration Accuracy 
Pre-deployment 
99.0 
98.2 
100.0 
100.0 
99.6 
Post Deployment 
Accuracy (includes the 
effect of biofouling) 
98.7 
96.5 
97.8 
97.1 
94.4 
Burrowing Shrimp Densities 
Shrimp densities were assigned classes (0 holes, 1-10 holes, 11-50 holes, 51-100 holes, 
and 101-175) by direct counts of burrow holes within a 0.25 m“ quadrat. These were designated 
as classes 0-4, respectively. Shrimp burrow identity and density-class, date, time, and 
geographic location data were collected along a survey track using a dynamic line setting 
recording the data onto a March II GPS-data logger (Corvallis Microtechnology Inc., Corvallis, 
OR) at 1-s intervals. As a change in species or density was observed, the line feature was ended, 
and a new dynamic line was started with the new species and density attribute. Burrow identity 
and density classification was verified approximately every 30 min during the survey by 
qualitatively sampling burrows using a bait pump and counting burrow hole densities using a 
0.25 m quadrat. The same procedure was also used whenever the survey team was uncertain of 
burrow attributes. Each ‘QA’ quadrant was also photographed with a digital camera mounted on 
a PVC frame to provide a consistent reference. As a check on burrow hole counting , the burrow 
holes were later re-counted from the digital pictures. 
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