MACRODAT is a relational Access database (developed by Drs. Tim Deprez, SMB) and compiles data that were gathered in the framework of different research projects and PhD studies. Next to macrobenthic densities and species richness values, also sedimentological data are integrated in the database. The database covers the surface area of the BCS (and its associated beaches) almost entirely. For several stations temporal variation data for macrobenthic community parameters have been collected and these are integrated in the database as well. Most data are present for the period 1994-2004. Since recent years other parameters are measured and included as well (nutrients, pigments,…).