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PHYCOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA

Phycological Methods

Ecological Methods

Quantitative sampling is used to estimate seaweed abundance and distribution. (And sometimes to estimate dispersal patterns!)  Some people quantify seaweeds destructively by collecting them. As a class studying in a biological preserve, we prefer to patiently count individual seaweeds in their natural setting or to estimate their per cent cover on the rocks. Choose your method after you:

• Define your research question
• Collect preliminary data on site and local seaweeds
• Decide how to analyze final data
• Determine how to randomize and replicate your sampling

Sampling methods

• Transects
• Quadrats
• Estimating abundance of drift algae (Chondracanthus)
• Mapping population distributions

Other ideas for ecological studies

• Estimating the age of crusts
• Modeling population dynamics

References for ecological methods

Return to Phycological Methods

copyright Elizabeth Nelson and Judith Connor 1999, 2000  Non-profit educational uses permitted.