Bacterial Mat
![](https://seamapaustralia.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Seamap_BioticComponent_Level3_Bacterial_Mat_T.jpg)
Areas dominated by colonies of bacterial decomposers and other decay organisms. These colonies can range in appearance from delicate and filamentous to a dense mass that may blanket the sediment surface.
Areas where benthic biota are present in the observational unit and account for a total ≥ 5 % of the substratum surface/composition/biomass.
Areas dominated by colonies of bacterial decomposers and other decay organisms. These colonies can range in appearance from delicate and filamentous to a dense mass that may blanket the sediment surface.