Download File - J. Seguin Science

SNC 2D1
Succession Study Analysis
Group Members: _____________________________________________________
Part A: Data Collection
In each ecosystem you will select a random study area, measure and mark a 10m by
10m quadrat. Record all abiotic and biotic factors in the following data charts.
Abiotic Factors
Equipment
Meadow
Climax Forest
Soil temp.
Air temp.
Air humidity
Light intensity
Wind speed
and direction
Soil Moisture
Soil Type
Soil Organic
Content
Percolation
rate
Biotic: Animal
For each site, record all animal species (or signs of) found, include animal classification
(mammal-M, bird- B, reptile-R, amphibian- A, insects-I, other-O) beside each.
Meadow
Climax Forest
Biotic: Plant
For each site, record all plant species and population estimate found in your “quadrat”.
Meadow
Plant Species
Population
Climax Forest
Plant Species
Population Calculations
For all of the plant species listed above, fill in the chart below:
Population
Type of
Ecosystem
ie.meadow
Plant Species
size of
quadrat
ie. 1m x 1m
# of species in # of species
the quadrat
per Hectare
Part B: Analysis Questions
Answer the following questions in full sentences.
1. What is succession? What is the difference between primary and secondary
succesion? Give an example of an environment where each would occur.
2. Summarize the abiotic and biotic factors at each site (2 sites) and explain what
stage of succession it is currently in. (early, mid, late)
3. What is a quadrat and why is it used?
4. Which site contained the least biodiversity? Which one contained the least?
(explain and give examples)
5. What types of biotic species are present but we are not able to observe them?
6. How does the soil organic content relate to the biodiversity of the sample area?
7. What kinds of human activities would impact the biodiversity of each site?