Temperature - T-MEDNet

Temperature Monitoring Protocol

In T-MEDNet, temperature is being recorded in situ using autonomous sensors (Stowaway Tidbits v2 and HOBO Water Temp Pro v2) setup and recovered by scuba divers annually, or best, twice a year, generally in spring and autumn. The temperature sensors are set to collect hourly records. In general, sensors are setup at standard depth from surface to 40m depth, every 5 m, to provide high-resolution observation, both spatial and temporal, on the seasonal temperature stratification dynamics.

The standard protocol for long-term and high-resolution monitoring of coastal thermal environment has proved its efficiency, ensuring high return rates on observations from years to decades (median > 82%). In general, the temperature sensors are fixed to the seabed rocky substrate although in some cases the T-sensors are attached to specific or opportunistic moorings (buoys chains or cords).

THE PROTOCOL

This series of standard protocols provides practical guidance to track climate-related impacts in Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and beyond.