The calculation of species diversity

Question 1

Briefly outline how you would calculate species diversity

Answer 1

1) Lay down 2 tape measures at right angles to each other
2) Randomly generate a number as an x and y coordinate
3) Place the quadrat where the coordinates meet
4) Identify the species present in the quadrat + count
5) Repeat with new coordinates
6) Same procedure in a different area
7) Compare species abundance

Question 2

How does farming reduce species diversity?

Answer 2

Pesticides kill off certain species

Farmers control what grow there

Question 3

Why would a climax community have a high species diversity?

Answer 3

More and more species colonize the area and decompose, making the area more habitable for other species

Question 4

What is used to calculate the species diversity?

Answer 4

Simpson’s index of diversity