Which method involves sampling along a specified line to observe changes in biodiversity?

Which method involves sampling along a specified line to observe changes in biodiversity?

• A. Canopy fogging
• B. Netting
• C. Quadrat sampling
• D. Transect sampling

Answer: (D)

Transect sampling is a method used to study changes in biodiversity by observing and recording species along a predetermined line, or transect, that runs through different habitats or ecological zones. This approach allows researchers to systematically assess how species composition and abundance vary across environmental gradients, such as elevation, moisture, or soil type. As the sampling occurs along the transect, data can be collected at regular intervals or specific points, enabling scientists to make comparisons about biodiversity across different areas. This method is particularly effective for monitoring changes due to factors like climate change, habitat destruction, or the introduction of invasive species, as it provides a clear and structured way to capture changes in the ecosystem. Other methods listed, such as canopy fogging, netting, and quadrat sampling, focus on different techniques for collecting data but do not specifically use a linear sampling strategy like transect sampling does. Canopy fogging targets organisms in tree canopies, netting usually involves capturing moving animals like fish or insects, and quadrat sampling involves assessing a defined area rather than along a line.

Transect sampling is a method used to study changes in biodiversity by observing and recording species along a predetermined line, or transect, that runs through different habitats or ecological zones. This approach allows researchers to systematically assess how species composition and abundance vary across environmental gradients, such as elevation, moisture, or soil type.

As the sampling occurs along the transect, data can be collected at regular intervals or specific points, enabling scientists to make comparisons about biodiversity across different areas. This method is particularly effective for monitoring changes due to factors like climate change, habitat destruction, or the introduction of invasive species, as it provides a clear and structured way to capture changes in the ecosystem.

Other methods listed, such as canopy fogging, netting, and quadrat sampling, focus on different techniques for collecting data but do not specifically use a linear sampling strategy like transect sampling does. Canopy fogging targets organisms in tree canopies, netting usually involves capturing moving animals like fish or insects, and quadrat sampling involves assessing a defined area rather than along a line.