The Bottom Sampling Dredge is designed for collecting a sample of bottom sediment and is suitable for mud, sand and gravel substrates. It is ideal for studying benthic macroinvertebrates and algae as well as for study of the chemistry and structure of the sediments themselves.
To use the dredge, a trigger mechanism is first activated which keeps the dredge locked open whilst it is lowered to the sediment. When it touches the bottom, the trigger is released by removing the pressure on the retrieval line. When the line is pulled again the jaws will close using a scissor action, trapping a sample of sediment inside. The dredge can then be raised to the surface of the water and the sample removed.
The dredge has a volume of 1098 cubic centimetres (67 cubic inches) and weighs 3.2kg.