Sampling organisms

• What is the purpose of random sampling in ecology?

  To estimate the number of organisms in an area
• What is a quadrat used for in random sampling?

  To count the number of organisms in a defined area
• How should a quadrat be placed during sampling?

  On the ground to count organisms inside
• What types of organisms can be studied using a quadrat?

  Plants or slow-moving animals
• How can a scientist investigate if flower plants are found more in light than dark conditions?

  By testing two different areas using random sampling
• What is the first step in investigating flower plants in different light conditions?

  Use random sampling in two different areas
• What should be done after placing the quadrat at random locations?

  Count the number of different organisms in each quadrat
• Why is it important to sample a large number of different locations?

  To increase the likelihood of valid results
• What is the formula to estimate the initial population size using random sampling?

  Total counted x (total area / size)
• What is the purpose of sampling along a transect?

  To investigate changes in species numbers across a habitat
• What is a transect in ecological studies?

  A line placed along the habitat for sampling
• How should quadrats be placed along a transect?

  At intervals along the transect
• What should be counted when placing quadrats along a transect?

  The number of organisms present
• Why is it important to count organisms multiple times along a transect?

  To obtain valid results and data