Ecological Sampling Techniques and Methods

What defines abiotic factors in an ecosystem?

• Living components of an ecosystem.

• Non-living physical and chemical parts of an ecosystem.

• Organisms that affect other organisms.

• Factors that only affect plant growth.

Which of the following are examples of abiotic factors?

• Light intensity, temperature, moisture.

• Plants, animals, fungi.

• Predators, prey, decomposers.

• Soil nutrients, water, bacteria.

Why do scientists use sampling techniques in an area?

• To collect rare species for study.

• To determine the number of organisms.

• To introduce new species to an ecosystem.

• To observe animal behavior.

What are the two primary methods of sampling organisms discussed?

• Direct observation and indirect observation.

• Random sampling with a quadrat and sampling along a transect.

• Capture-recapture and mark-release.

• Aerial surveys and underwater surveys.

What is random sampling primarily used for?

• To track individual organisms over time.

• To compare the numbers of organisms in different areas.

• To study the migration patterns of animals.

• To identify new species.

What is a quadrat in the context of ecological sampling?

• A type of net used to catch insects.

• A device for measuring temperature.

• A wooden or plastic square used to define a sample area.

• A tool for digging up plants.

How is a quadrat typically used in random sampling?

• It is thrown into the air and where it lands is sampled.

• It is placed on the ground, and organisms inside are counted.

• It is used to mark a path for animals.

• It is submerged in water to collect aquatic samples.

Which types of organisms are typically sampled using a quadrat?

• Fast-moving animals like birds.

• Large mammals.

• Plants or slow-moving animals.

• Fish in a river.

Why is the quadrat placed at random locations during random sampling?

• To make the sampling process faster.

• To ensure the sample is representative of the entire area.

• To avoid disturbing the organisms.

• To find the densest populations of organisms.

Why is it crucial to place the quadrat a large number of times during random sampling?

• To make the experiment more challenging.

• To ensure the results are valid and representative.

• To cover the entire area being studied.

• To minimize the time spent on sampling.