Sampling Techniques: Specialist Techniques

Sampling Techniques: Specialist Techniques

Specialist Sampling Techniques

Point Quadrat Sampling

• Point quadrat sampling involves using a row of pins or a handheld device to assess what is directly below each point in a designated area. This is especially useful for estimating species abundance in plant communities.

Transect Quadrat Sampling

• This method employs transects, which are lines places across a habitat. Along these lines, quadrats are placed at regular intervals and the plants within them are identified and counted. This technique can illuminate gradient changes in vegetation or species.

Belt Transect Sampling

• In this method, a line is laid across the study area, and a square frame, such as a quadrat, is placed next to the line at regular intervals. The type and number of species within the frame are recorded. It is very effective for studying changes across environmental gradients.

Line Transect Sampling

• In line transect sampling, only the first specimen along a line touching or underneath it is recorded, instead of every specimen in a certain area or distance. This is an efficient way of sampling over a long distance or large area.

Quadrat Sampling for Animal Populations

• This technique involves enclosing a small area, often with a square or rectangular frame, and counting the number of individuals of a particular species within it. This method is most effective for larger, less mobile species.

Tullgren Funnels Technique

• This extraction technique is intended for sampling soil arthropods. A soil sample is placed in a funnel with a light source at the top. The heat encourages organisms to move down and eventually fall out of the funnel into a collecting vial.

Pitfall Traps

• Pitfall traps are often used to sample small, crawling animals like insects or spiders. A container is buried in the soil so that its rim is level with the ground surface. Animals that cross the trap fall in and can’t escape, allowing for direct counting and measurement.

Camera Trapping

• Camera traps are set up in the field to automatically take photos or videos when sensors detect movement. They not only provide data on species presence, but can also deliver detailed insight into animal behaviour.

Sound Recording

• This method involves recording sounds produced by animals, such as bird songs or bat calls. The recordings can then be analysed to identify species and estimate population sizes. It’s particularly effective for nocturnal or elusive species.

eDNA Sampling

• eDNA, or environmental DNA, sampling involves collecting a sample of soil, water, or air and analysing it for traces of DNA left behind by organisms. This method can detect the presence of rare or difficult to observe species.