All benthos data represented here expand upon vessel operations (OP table) data, all of which are collected by the United States Geological Survey, Great Lakes Science Center and it’s partners. The Benthos Tables contain data collected from the research vessel deploying various gear used for benthos data collection. The database uses sample_type to indicate the gear deployed. The tables relating to Benthos are: Benthos_Comments.csv, Benthos_Ponar.csv, and Benthos_LF Data Quality: Note that the following data release is a snapshot of the database at the time of release. Some data quality checks are still being undertaken after the time of release. Also, a large section of this database includes legacy data that if issues arrise for cannot be addressed, but nevertheless adds great value to the database. When approaching the following data release, it is strongly suggested to approach the Great Lakes Science Center's researchers for input. Distribution Liability Statement: Unless otherwise stated, all data, metadata and related materials are considered to satisfy the quality standards relative to the purpose for which the data were collected. Although these data and associated metadata have been reviewed for accuracy and completeness and approved for release by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), no warranty expressed or implied is made regarding the display or utility of the data on any other system or for general or scientific purposes, nor shall the act of distribution constitute any such warranty.