Methods
The methods I chose to use measure these factors include:
- A transect line for distribution. This involves measuring where the species is situated across a line in the area, revealing where the species population is concentrated or blatantly evident. On a map sketch of the rock platform, a symbol is drawn for wherever a species lies, and is later graphed so clearly show where the population of the species is most dense.
- A quadrat for abundance. For this method I have decided to use a square metre as my area of measurement.
This is made out of four metre long pieces of wood which is thrown out randomly within the rock platform (eyes closed just to make sure) and the species are counted which appear inside the area.
This process in my investigation will be done 7 times to get a more reliable result.
Results for Abundance
Neptunes Necklace average – 4.3
Black Periwinkle average – 34
Results for Distribution
Calculations
Neptunes Necklace
Area concentrated on = approx 80m2
Average number of Neptunes Necklace per m2 = 4.3
Total estimated number of Neptunes Necklace in the area = 4.3 x 80
=344
Black Periwinkle
Average number of Black Periwinkle per m2 = 34
Total estimated number of Black Periwinkle in the area = 34 x 80
= 2720
Distribution:
According to the transect line, which started closest to the ocean and stretched directly inwards 24 meters to the sand, the Black Periwinkle was significantly more concentrated towards the rocks closest to the ocean. This may be because the Black Periwinkle requires a wet environment to live.
The Neptunes Necklace, as little as the numbers were, still had a pattern evident where the majority of them were situated in groups, showing better living conditions in certain parts of the rock platform. In my transect line, the clearest of the groups was about half way along the transect line in the middle of the rock platform.
Abundance:
Both these species are rather abundant in this area as it is an ideal marine rock platform environment.
There are numerous pools of water where both species can happily live, and flat rocks covered in nutrients for the Black Periwinkles to live on.
Conclusion:
By using a transect line a square quadrat, I was able to successfully measure the abundance and distribution of both a plant and animal species.
investigating many areas for the abundance makes the results very accurate, and by starting the transect line in a different environment to where it ends clearly shows where the best place for the species to live is.
The results clearly outline regions in which the species can easily live e.g. where there is most water.
The results also show that a rock platform is a great place for these species to live and reproduce.