U2 - KA1 Field techniques for biologists Flashcards
Risk assessment
Involves identifying risks and control measures to minimise them.
What is a point count?
Sampling technique that involves the observer recording all individuals seen from a fixed location.
Record of everything heard and seen - duration and area kept constant.
Random/Stratified/Systematic Sampling
Random - members of population selected at random
Stratified - population divided into categories and then sampled proportionally
Systematic - members of population selected at regular intervals
What is a transect?
A straight line across a large expanse of ground/habitat where measurements are taken at regular intervals. Number of organisms of each species can be observed and recorded.
What are camera traps?
Activated as animal approaches - motion sensors. Allows direct observations without interfering with the natural behaviour of the animal.
Capture techniques
- pitfall traps
- netting
What is scat sampling?
Sampling technique used for elusive species whereby animal droppings are collected, which provide information about the species abundance and diet.
What is remote detection?
Satellite tracking and radio tracking is used.
Classification guides
Provide information that allows separation of similar species, such as description of key features, illustrations, habitat preferences, known distributions & seasonal abundance.
Biological keys
Pose a series of questions which focus only on the characteristics that allow different species to be seperated.
Analysis of DNA or protein
Allows the identification of species when only partial of molecule evidence remains.
Taxonomy
The identification and naming of organisms, and their classification into groups, based on shared characteristics.
Phylogenetics
The study of evolutionary history and relationships among individuals or groups of organisms.
The three domains
- bacteria
- archaea
- eukaryota
Divergent evolution
The process whereby groups from the same common ancestor evolve and accumulate differences, resulting in the formation of a new species.
(Same structure/different functions)
Convergent evolution
The independent evolution of similar features in different species.
(Different structures/same function)
Taxonomic groups
- nematodes
- arthropods
- chordates
Nematode
Microscopic creature that acts as a parasite in another insect (lives in host). Damages plants and severely impacts plant growth.
(Roundworms)
Arthropods
An animal with no internal spine, body of joint segments, and a hard covering shell.
(Spiders/butterflies/crabs/insects)
Chordates
Animals with a flexible rod supporting their dorsal or back sides.
(Humans, mammals, birds, reptiles, fish)
Indicator species
Species that by their presence, absence, or abundance, can give information about an environmental factor.
