Biodiversity Index Square Experiment (For brainiacs only!)

Scientists use the Biodiversity Index Square to test species distribution. Species Distribution is when an animal, plant, etc is present at one place and not in another. The factors that affect this are: climate, sunlight, humidity, and location. Think American Pikas; they can only adapt to high-altitude; low temperature atmospheres.

Hypothesis: In three different areas, the biodiversity will be different.

Methodology: Using a biodiversity index square, place it in three separate areas. Within the square, there are thirty smaller squares. For each square, count the dominant species. Only one species per square.

This is the biodiversity square

Identify three different species. Eg. veldt grass, Indian strawberry, mimosa, trailing daisy, creeping wire vine.

After collecting the data, calculate the biodiversity index for each of the three areas and see if the hypothesis is supported.

Total area combined (N)

64

63

75

Charts:

Conclusion: Alternative Hypothesis (hypothesis is supported) We used the Simpson's index of diversity to determine that 'the biodiversity will be different.'

The theorem

(Simpson Index, calculations;

Area one: 2.56

Area two: 2.37

Area three: 2.85

Area three is the most diverse.

Comments (ways to improve the experiment):

1. Sample more areas

2. Variables to be considered (account for other variables such as sunlight, or humidity)

3. Bigger square

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