A technique for laboratory sub-sampling of non marine fossil Ostracoda

Abstract. A two-stage sampling method for large samples of selected species of ostracods is described. The washed sample is sieved through several sieves to ensure the retention and partial separation of the adults and the last instar stages. Each fraction is then sub-sampled in a micropalaeontological sorting tray. The statistical treatment for the estimation of the total number of valves of the selected species is described. Comparative data using the Askö-splitter are also presented. The advantages of the two-stage sampling method in the tray are emphasised.