L3 Sampling biodiversity in the tropics

Question 1

Why is it difficult to sample biodiversity in the tropics?

Answer 1

Difficult to see/hear
Many species, so hard to identify or concentrate on all at once
Hard to estimate distance to the individual

Question 2

What is a point-count study?

Answer 2

Observer records all the species seen and heard from a point, for a set period of time - can be compared to other point counts

Question 3

How do you design a point count study?

Answer 3

Sample at least two widely spaced landscapes
Set number of sampling points in each site
Points need to be adequate distance apart else are not independent
Consider time of day that suits study species