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Ecology Sampling Methods. What are they?. Biologists need to collect data ‘in the field” This data needs to be collected in a standardised way. (why?) Two methods of doing this are; Transect sampling Quadrat Sampling. Transects. Transect sampling is using a single line
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What are they? • Biologists need to collect data ‘in the field” • This data needs to be collected in a standardised way. (why?) • Two methods of doing this are; • Transect sampling • Quadrat Sampling
Transects • Transect sampling is using a single line • This line is stretched over the area to be studied • The line is positioned to encompass the changes in a site • The line has regular measurements marked on it (like a tape measure). • The line must be held straight and stationary
Quadrats • Quadrats enable comparisons between different areas of a survey site • A Quadrat is a framed area • The area within the quadrat is sectioned into a set number or squares or intercepts
Quadrats (cont) • Quadrats can be placed randomly, or at regular intervals along a transect line
Types of Sampling • Point-intercept along a transect line • Visual estimate within a quadrat • Point intercept within a quadrat • Photoquadrats Transect line Quadrat
What to use when? • The data collection method varies depending on; • The habitat • The question of interest • The researcher • Providing the most accurate results • Providing the most repeatable results
References • Association, F. M. (2007, December 13). Photo Quadrat Classroom Activity. Retrieved October 18, 2010, from Farallones Marine Sanctuary Association: http://www.farallones.org/education/documents/PhotoQuadActivity-legal.pdf • Authority, R. I. (2010). Experience Rottnest Island. Retrieved October 18, 2010, from About Rottnest Island: http://www.rottnestisland.com/en/About_Rottnest_Island/Flora_and_fauna/Pages/Flora_and_fauna.aspx • Baumgartner, E. a. (2009). Measuring Abundance: Transects and Quadrats. Retrieved October 18, 2010, from EECB Graduate Fellowships in K-12 Education: http://www.hawaii.edu/gk-12/opihi/classroom/measuring.pdf • Maben, A. (n.d.). Coastal Shore Investigation. Retrieved October 18, 2010, from Maine Intertidal Zone Investigation: http://www.bigelow.org/mitzi/CSI.html • Marine Discovery Centre, Q. (2010). Background Information. Retrieved October 18, 2010, from Intertidal Rocky Shores: http://www.rockyshores.auz.info/back_info01.htm