Abundance of Swamp Daisies Along a Belt Transect

Abundance of swamp daisies along a belt transect

Quadrat 1 5 10 15 20 distance No of daisies

Describe the distribution and abundance of swamp daisies using the five quadrats above and the abiotic factors measured.

Give possible reasons for the distribution and abundance above.

Describe tests/experiments you could carry out to determine which of the above parameters is the "limiting factor".

What other factors could determine the distribution of swamp daisies? Species Diversity

Some common herbs and other understorey plants found in river red gum forests. The red squares are 1m2 random quadrats. The total area = 12.5m2

Compare the species diversity for the whole area of the diagram: a. determined by using the three random quadrats; b. determined by doing a total count of the area.

How would you improve the random quadrat method so you recorded all plant species in the study area? Refer to Figure 10.49, the surface map (aerial view) of a sample plot in an area where eucalypts grow. a Calculate the total surface area covered by species A. What percentage cover is this? How does it compare with species C?

b How would you classify the area represented by the plot using Spechts classification scheme? c What limitations are there in using one sample plot to represent a larger area such as a forest?

d Draw a transect profile across XY. What particular information is missing that would be helpful in drawing a more accurate profile? e Describe how the information presented would have been obtained. f Suggest reasons for the difference in distribution of the different species. Capture – Recapture Example 1 5mX5m

Abundance = number marked Time 1 x number captured Time 2 number marked in recapture Time 2.

Calculate the estimated population of cockroaches in the above ecosystem.

Calculate the density of cockroaches in this ecosystem. Mark Recapture Example 2

To survey beetles on river red gum foliage, a sheet was placed below the tree and the lower branches were shaken.

Fallen beetles were then collected, marked and released. The process was repeated 24 hours later.

Calculate the estimated population of beetles in the above tree . Show working