Objectives :
1. To learn the method of constructing a quadrate on an area of grassland in Biodiversity Park.
2. To estimate the population sizes of Species A using the quadrate sampling method.
3. To observe how abiotic factors affect the population of Species A.
Introduction : Since there is an abundance of populations in a forest, it is impossible for us to study all of the populations due to financial constraints, time consuming and the relatively large ranges of populations. However, by practical sampling, we can study the distribution of a certain population and represent the results for real population. One of the best ways to measure ecological variables is by using quadrate sampling.
Quadrates are defined plots, randomly distributed throughout the study area. The purpose of using a quadrate is to enable comparable samples to be obtained from areas of consistent size and shape. Quadrat sampling is a classic tool for the study of ecology, especially biodiversity. In general, a series of squares (quadrates) of a set size are placed in a habitat of interest and the species within those quadrats are identified and recorded. Quadrats allow researchers to study plant and animal populations spread out over large areas. They are inexpensive, relatively easy to design and can be adapted to study unevenly distributed populations. Compared to other sampling methods, quadrats are relatively simple to use. Quadrat plots are uniform in size and shape and are distributed randomly throughout your sample area, which makes the study design fairly straightforward. They are also one of the most affordable techniques because very few materials are required.
In this investigation, the abiotic factors such as temperature, pH value of the soil and light intensity will be taking in account of this study. This is to observe how abiotic factors affect the growth of species A. Furthermore, we can know the optimum growing