CCEA Biology - Fieldwork & Competition

Question 1

Belt transect method

2 marks

Answer 1

Used when there is a gradual change from one side of a habitat to another

• like the change in light between the outer edges of a forest to the centre.

Question 2

What do we use quadrats to investigate?

1 mark

Answer 2

Abundance of plants and/or animals in a habitat.

Question 3

Random sampling method;

Using quadrats to investigate a habitat

(10 marks)

Answer 3

• Divide the area to be sampled into a grid using measuring tapes placed at right angles to each other.
• Use random numbers to generate coordinates within the grid on which to place the quadrats.
• Place a quadrat at each coordinate.
• Count the numbers/estimate percentage cover of each species in each quadrat.
• Use a key to identify each species.
• Record results in a table.
• Calculate the average of each species.

Question 4

Belt transects method;

Using quadrats to investigate a habitat

(11 marks)

Answer 4

• Extend a measuring tape from one side of the habitat to another.
• Place a quadrat at 0m on the tape.
• Count the numbers/estimate percentage cover of each species.
• Use a key to identify each species.
• Record results in a table.
• Move the quadrat along the measuring tape.
• Repeat step 3-5 at regular intervals along the measuring tape.
• Continue until the full length of the measuring tape has been sampled.
• Calculate the average of each species.
• A bar chart can be drawn to show the data obtained.