Specimen types

The specimen types have been selected in such a way as to permit load observations within both a spatial and a time framework, thereby providing optimum information about overall conditions in the various sampling areas.

The specimen types must be adequately available, and they must function as indicators for various stages in the food chain and various categories of hazardous substance.

• Limnetic samples

  Suspended particulate matter and animal samples from rivers and lakes
• Marine samples

  Samples of marine-animals, sea weeds and seabirds
• Terrestrial samples

  Samples of animals living on land and plants growing on land and as well as soil
• Human samples

  Human body fluids and hair