Ecology Sampling - 12

Question 1

Does the face of the slop affect the percentage cover of clover?

Question 2

What is the equipment needed for this investigation?

Answer 2

• measuring tape
• Ph Meter kit
• Quadrat
• Meter ruler
• Thermometer
• kilnometer
• Soil rod
• Clipboard
• Paper
• Pen
• Identification sheet

Question 3

Describe the method used to investigate the percentage cover of clover

Answer 3

1. Place a 20 meter tape measure from the bottom to the top of the slope.
2. Mark three internals: Top, Bottom and Middle to ensure that there is a systematic system
3. Using an Interrupted Belt transect, We can place a quadrat at each interval on the slope.
4. Now we have to count the frequency of the percentage cover of clover and record this in a table.
5. Now using a Kilnometer, we can measure the steepness of the Hill and record this in the results table
6. Next we can go to each interval and find out the pH, temp and depth of the soil. We can do this by using a soil rod to dig up a small hole, and then place the thermometer in the hole for 5 minutes, and then compare it to the air temperature.
7. To measure the pH, we need to gather some soil (from each interval) then add barium sulphate with universal indicator and shake with a stopper.
8. To measure the depth of the Soil, we use the Soil rod and pushing it down as much as it possibly can go.
9. Repeat these steps for the south of the slope. for a standardised and accurate test

Question 4

What are some of the control variables that need to be kept constant during this investigation?

Answer 4

• Placement of the quadrats, must be placed at set intervals.
• Length of the belt transect - 20 meters
• Time of day - Do both sides of the quadrat on the same day.

Question 5

What are some of the risks associated with this experiment?

Answer 5

• Steep slope- Easily fall down
• Barium sulphate - cause irritation of the eyes
• Slippery slope - slip Hazard

Question 6

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