4.2 Population Estimation

4.2 Recall the use of quadrats to estimate the population size of an organism in two different areas


Take an ecosystem, for example this Sand dune:

The sand dune is bisected into two parts by the fence through the middle, a Grazed area on the left, and an ungrazed region closer to the camera.

To study the population of a region like this a technique is used called quadrating.
A quadrat can be made of any material (inc. String, wood, metal, or plastic like below)
Usually a quadrat is between 0.25m² and 1m² in size.
The number of individuals in a quadrat is then counted and this is repeated several times.
And then the results from both regions can be compared.