This dataset is a subset of "WFD Classification Status Cycle 2" and contains classification data for benthic invertebrates in transitional and coastal waters. Benthic invertebrates are small animals (for example, worms, sand hoppers and clams) that live in the mud and sand at the bottom of the estuary or sea. They can be used to indicate the ecological status of a waterbody. Metrics on species composition and disturbance sensitivity are calculated with the IQI classification tool. The actual (observed) scores for these metrics are compared with a predicted score (reflecting a habitat in pristine condition). The comparison of the observed to expected scores is known as an Ecological Quality Ratio (EQR). EQRs are used to produce a benthic invertebrate IQI classification (High, Good, Moderate, Poor, Bad) of the water body for Water Framework Directive (WFD) purposes. Attribution statement: © Environment Agency copyright and/or database right 2015. All rights reserved.