Our planet is heterogeneous mixture of atoms. The Earth is also a home for an enormous number of various species. Adaptation to different and often changing conditions was a key to succeed during ages of evolving from simple one-cell microorganisms to the complicated lifeforms we can observe nowadays. Scientific equipment evolves as well. Various research areas, scientific fields require different research methods, tools and founding.

The things you should remember when collecting samples is that every equipment works under certain conditions. Knowing them helps you to avoid dangers, mistakes, and saves your time. I am here to point out few from the most important things to remember.

The whole process of collecting data consists of three major parts. Preparation, sampling and conservation. Tools used for sampling should be tested before actual expedition. The more you know earlier, the faster whole process lasts. The equipment used in the sampling site must be chosen wisely, depending on what and where you want to study. Working on the coastline, requires light and handy tools mainly because of the transport and usage issues. You should not forget about the tides as well. On the other hand, working on the research vessel offers you the possibility of using bigger and heavier tools, but still with optimum operational weights for the cranes and winches. Knowing the bathymetry and the sea bottom substrates is necessary. If you hit the ground with too much speed, the equipment may brake. This can mean the end of the research for you.

The amount of collected samples must be also appropriate for the storage capacity and the amount of preservatives you brought along. For that you should sometimes consider pre-sorting process, that can be done still in the research area. This saves both preservatives, capacity and the time you will spend in lab later.