Ecology (Sampling) (CSEC)
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TKEcology (Sampling) (CSEC)
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TKEcology (Sampling)
Ecology is the study of organisms and their interactions with each other and their environment.
Ecology involves sampling which involves collecting data from the organisms in a population to
get a perspective on that population. Therefore, scientists won't have to count every individual
specie in a population to make estimations of a population.
There are two types of sampling:
❖ Random: involve methods that are unstructured and not specific. It is used when the area
has no clear pattern of distribution of the species. An example of random sampling is the
use of quadrats (plastic/wooden/metal square frame of any size that is randomly thrown
over an area. The number of organisms within the quadrae are counted and recorded. Its
disadvantages are that it can only be used with stationary organisms or slow-moving
organisms. It is also used mostly on flat areas.
➢ It provides informations such as:
1. Species frequency – this states the most common species in the habitat
Species frequency = number of times organism is seen or present/ number of throws
2. Percentage cover/species cover- percentage of area which each species covers
3. Species density - average number of individuals of a particular specie in the area.
Species density= total number of individuals / (number of throws x area of quadrat)
4. Population = species density x total area of sample field
❖ Systematic Sampling: involves structured and organised methods of sampling. It is often
used when there is an environmental gradient.
➢ Examples of systematic sampling include:
■ Line transects- a line or rope with markings at intervals to note distance.
They are used in areas that transition from one type to the next. An
example is the shoreline of a beach to the inland.
■ Moving animals cannot be sampled with this method.
➢ Other examples are:
■ Mark, Release and recapture
● The formula to estimate population in this method is
S = (S1 x S2 )/S3
● S = total number of individuals in the total population
S1= number captured, marked and released in the first sample
S2= total number captured in second sample
S3= total number of marked individuals captured in second sample
■ Pitfall trap
■ Tullgren Funnel
■ Nets (used often with flying animals)
■ Pooters
