From March 28th to April 25th a total of 5 site visits and 16 sample plots were carried out. A quantitative analysis of species composition, abundance in percent cover, and diversity was conducted by way of the belt transect method. Based on readings of module 2: Elements of Experimental Design, this study is described as a natural experiment of continuous regression (all variables are continuous). Four belt transects were conducted around various areas of Turner’s Bog. Sample placements were selected at random but one was a haphazard selection since this was the only patch of Gorse located around the bog. I used this approach for a transect to deduce why Gorse (mainly) and Blackberry were the dominant species in this sample area. Each transect consisted of a 2m x 15m. The dominant species present within 1 meter on each side of the line were recorded along a 15-metre rope. The total cover was then estimated for each species identified over the entirety of the four sampling placements. Only species with at least 1% of the total cover were included in the analyses. All data collected is summarized in the following tables and charts. Field identification of species was confirmed using the Picture This plant identifier app. Mapping was performed on my iPhone 8 using the Apple Maps feature.
There were no major challenges using this sampling design — I actually found the belt transect method quick and effective due to personal time constraints. With large thickets of blackberry surrounding the bog, finding appropriate access was a bit challenging. I find this being the biggest setback to my project in general as I cannot determine complete species composition and assess for potential nesting habitats etc.