LIMPETS: Long-term Monitoring Program and Experiential Training for Students

Sandy Beach Monitoring Resources

Teacher Handbook (pdf 2.4MB):

Handbook includes background information, fact sheets, monitoring procedures, data sheets, data entry and analysis, parasite analysis activity, and more.

Natural History—The Sandy Beach Habitat (pdf 140KB):

This nine-page excerpt from the Sanctuary’s Coastal Ecosystem Curriculum contains in-depth information on the sandy beach habitat. Additional information can be found on the SIMoN website.

Fact Sheets:

Can be used as student handouts.

• Sandy Beaches Fact Sheet (pdf 116KB)
• Pacific Mole Crab Fact Sheet (pdf 160KB)
• Acanthocephalan Parasite Fact Sheet (pdf 120KB)

Introductory PowerPoint (ppt):

Slideshow and script that teaches students about the LiMPETS program and field protocols prior to monitoring.

Classroom Activity: Acanthocephalan Parasite Investigation (pdf 237KB)

In this optional in-class extension to sandy beach monitoring, students investigate the presence of a parasitic worm (Phlyum Acanthocephala). A fishing permit or scientific collecting permit is needed to conduct this activity.

Data Analysis (pdf 108 KB):

Students learn to use the Chi Square test to analyze sand crab sex ratios.