RP 12 Investigation into the effect of a named environmental factor on the distribution of a given species

Method

- Choose a 5x5m area for sampling and generate 10 sets of random coordinates.

- Use two tape measures to create axes for reading coordinates.

- Place the quadrat at each coordinate, aligning the bottom left corner with the coordinate.

- Record percentage cover of chosen species by counting squares within the quadrat; count squares with half or more coverage.

- Measure independent variable at each coordinate (e.g., light intensity with a photometer)

Risk Assessment:

- Biohazard: Wash hands after practical to avoid contamination.

- Slippery surfaces: Wear appropriate footwear to prevent slips.

Conclusion:

- Plot percentage cover against independent variable.

- Conduct statistical tests such as Spearman’s Rank, Ttest, or Chi Squared on collected data.

- Correlation in the graph indicates effect of variable on species distribution.

- Note that correlation does not imply causation; other factors may influence results.

b

b