2.1b Sampling of wild organisms

Question 1

Point count

Answer 1

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.

Question 1

Sampling

Answer 1

Sampling should be carried out in a manner that minimizes impact on wild species and habitats.
And consideration should be given to rare and vulnerable species and habitats that are protected by legislation.

The chosen technique, point count, transect or remote detection must be appropriate to the species being sampled.

Question 2

Quadrats

Answer 2

Guadrats, of suitable size and shape, placed along the transect are used for plants and other sessile (doesnt move) or slow moving organisms.

A frame of a known area sometimes split into smaller sections.

Question 3

Capture techniques

Answer 3

Capture techniques, such as traps and nets, are used for mobile species.

Question 4

Elusive species

Answer 4

Elusive species can be sampled directly using a camera traps or an indirect method, such as scat sampling.

Question 5

Transect

Answer 5

A straight line across a large expanse of ground along which measurements are taken, usually at regular intervals. Often set up along an area where terrain or aboitic factors are changeable.

Question 6

Scat sampling

Answer 6

Finding and identifying of animal waste to identify the species living in an area. Can also be used to identify the animals diet.

Question 7

Line transect

Answer 7

A line is laided, and at certain points along the line abundance of particular species is recorded. Often a line transect will be plotted against topography of the land which gives more info on habitat.

Question 8

Belt transect

Answer 8

Uses two parallel lines and records the plants found between the lines at given points. Using quadrat at each section of belt is more accurate data. It can also define the outer edge of the belt.

Question 9

Pitfall trap

Answer 9

Can be modified in terms of size, access, whether it is baited or not and the result of the fall . Only effective for animals that are on the ground.

Question 10

Nets

Answer 10

Common form of capture, method used and form of these will depend on the organism being sampled. Size of net and mesh will affect capture.

Question 11

Sweep nets

Answer 11

Can be used in air or water, are designed to allow the air or water to flow out while collecting the organisms.

Question 12

Mist nets

Answer 12

can be used to sample bird and bat populations, animal will fly into net and either fall into the pocket or are gently removed by hand, recorded and released.

Question 13

Camera traps

Answer 13

Direct method of sampling, allows more elusive species to be observed with observer being present. Cameras are triggered when animals are present. Doesn’t interfere with natural behaviors of animals. Useful for endangered animals, only good if you know where to put the camera.