1 - field techniques for biologists Flashcards
Give examples of hazards in fieldwork
Hazards in fieldwork include adverse weather conditions, difficult terrain, problems associated with isolation, and contact with harmful organisms.
Define the term risk
Risk is the likelihood of harm arising from exposure to a hazard.
Describe the purpose of a risk assessment
Risk assessment involves identifying control measures to minimise risk. Control measures include appropriate equipment, clothing, footwear, and means of communication.
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Sampling should be carried out in a manner that minimises impact on wild species and habitats and consideration must be given to rate and vulnerable species and habitats that are protected by legislation.
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The chosen sampling technique, point count, transect or remote detection must be appropriate to the species being sampled.
Describe the point count technique
A point count involves the observer recording all individuals seen from a fixed point count location. This can be compared to other point count locations or with data from the same location gathered at other times.
Identify the type of organism samples using quadrate
Quadrats, of suitable size and shape, or transcents are used for plants and other sessile or slow-moving organisms.
Identify the type of organisms sampled using capture techniques
Capture techniques, such as traps and nets are used for mobile species.
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Elusive species can be sampled directly using camera traps or an indirect method, such as scat sampling.
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Identification of an organism in a sample can be made using classification guides, biological keys or analysis of DNA or protein.
Describe the use if taxonomy to identify organisms
Taxonomy involves the identification and naming of organisms and their classification into groups based on shared characteristics.
Describe the use of phylogenetics to identify organisms
Phylogenetics is the study of the evolutionary history and relationships among individuals or groups of organisms. Phylogenetics is changing the traditional classification of many organisms.
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Familiarity with taxonomic groupings allows predictions and inferences to be made about the biology of an organism from better-known (model) organisms.
Give three examples of taxonomic groups.
Three examples of taxonomic groups are nematodes, arthropods and chordates.
Describe the role of model organisms and give examples from different taxonomic groups.
Model organisms are those that are either easily studied or have been studied. Information obtained from them can be applied to other species that are more difficult to study directly.
