Microplankton, comprising of both phyto- and zooplankton in the 20-200μm size range, are a diverse and ecologically important group. They form the foundation of the food web, are instrumental in carbon and nutrient cycling, generate at least 50% of global oxygen and facilitate energy flow to higher trophic levels. Although they are found in all oceans globally, their diversity and abundance is varied. Due to their high sensitivity and rapid response to changes in the environment, their biomass and diversity are considered Essential Ocean Variables (EOV's) for routine and sustained long term observations to assess global ocean changes. This dataset forms part of the routine monitoring along the west coast of South Africa - Integrated Ecosystem Programme: Southern Benguela which occurs biannually in February and August. This resource contains raw image data for February 2018 obtained from water samples processed using a FlowCam VS3. The dataset comprises all images obtained of both...