Using Quadrats

Question 1

What is a quadrat?

Answer 1

A quadrat is a square frame enclosing a known area

Question 2

Explain the 6 steps needed to compare the mean number of an organism per quadrat in 2 sample areas.

Answer 2

1) Place a 1m² quadrat on the groun at a random point in the first sample area

2) Count all organisms needed

3) Repeat steps 1-2 many times

4) Work out mean number of organisms per quadrat in first sample area
(Mean = total no. of organisms/no. of quadrats)

5) Repeat steps 1-4 in the second sample area

6) Compare 2 means

Question 3

How do you work out the population size of a organism in one sample area?

Answer 3

1) Work out the mean no. of organisms per m²
2) Multiple mean per m² by total area (m²)