Ecology Quiz: Distribution, Sampling, and Calculations

What does distribution describe in ecology?

• The energy flow in an ecosystem

• The genetic makeup of organisms

• How organisms interact with each other

• Where organisms are found in an area

Which of the following is an abiotic factor that can affect distribution?

• Predation

• Symbiosis

• Competition

• Light intensity

What is a transect used for?

• To calculate the mean number of organisms per square metre

• To study how organisms are distributed across an area

• To measure soil moisture

• To identify organisms using keys

How many squares are typically in a quadrat divided for percentage cover calculations?

• 10

• 100

• 25

• 50

Why is random sampling important in fieldwork?

• It ensures organisms are correctly identified

• It reduces bias and ensures results are representative

• It helps calculate percentage cover

• It prevents slips and trips during fieldwork

Which tool can be used to identify organisms during fieldwork?

• Identification keys

• Quadrats

• Transects

• Random number generators

What is one way to reduce risks during fieldwork?

• Using a transect

• Placing quadrats randomly

• Wearing suitable footwear

• Using identification keys

Which of the following is an example of a scientific question using transects?

• What is the mean number of organisms per square metre?

• How many squares in a quadrat contain clover?

• How does soil moisture affect the genetic makeup of plants?

• How does light intensity affect the distribution of moss?