Diagrams D, E and F are illustrations of tools used for ecological studies. Study them and answer questions (a) to (c).
(a)(i) Identify diagrams D, E and F.
- Name the parts labeled I to VIII.
- State one function each of the parts labeled I, III, IV, V and VII.
(b) State one use each of the tools labeled D, E and F.
(c) Describe briefly the use of each of the tools labeled D, E and F.
Explanation
(a) (i) Identification of diagrams D, E and F
D β Sweep net/butterfly net/ insect net/ hand net;
E β Pooter;
F β Quadrat.
(ii) Names of labeled parts
I- Handle (of Sweep net/butterfly net); V- Specimen container/tube;
II- Net; VI- Collecting/ tube;
III- Suction tube; VII- Frame;
IV- Wire mesh/gauze/cotton; VIII- Thin wire/string
.
(iii) Function of parts labeled I, III, IV, V and VII
I - Handle of Sweep net/butterfly net: for holding the instrument in place for use;
III - Suction tube: to apply suction pressure to draw in the insect;
IV - Wire mesh/gauze/cotton/sieve: prevents the insect /dirt from entering the/suction tube/
mouth;
V - Specimen container/tube; for keeping the sucked insect (temporarily);
VII - Frame; to demarcate the area of study/ sample area.
(b) Use of tools labeled D, E and F
D - Sweep net/butterfly net: to catch flying insects
E - Pooter: to collect tiny invertebrates from leaves /litter/crevices
F - Quadrat: to determine the population of small, slow-crawling organisms/ small plants within the restricted area
(c) Description of use of
(i) D/Sweep net/butterfly net
- the handle of the net is swung towards the organisms when sighted;
- when the organisms are caught;
- the middle part of the net is held closed to prevent the escape of the organisms.
(ii) E/Pooter
- the collecting tube is pointed to the organism when sighted;
- And the suction tube is placed in the mouth and sucked;
- The insect is drawn into the specimen tube/container.
(iii) F/Quadrat
- The quadrat is thrown randomly;
- Wherever the quadrat lands, the number of selected/targeted/determined species enclosed within the quadrat is counted;
- The number is recorded. /;
- This procedure is repeated several times/ at least ten times;
- Average number of species per throw/toss is calculated;
- The frequency/ total number/ density / percentage covered is then determined.