I have made some changes to my data collection techniques compared to my initial data collection. I have increased the number of each category of predictor variable (tree condition) from 5 to 10 to collect more accurate data. I have also added an observation time of 1 minute to collect data at each site as opposed to collecting data observed in the moment. Each site is a randomly selected area of 1 square foot on a different tree within the study area. These changes have allowed for higher numbers which will give better representation of each category. I continue to use the haphazard sampling technique as it works best for sampling in different categories. The design of this project is one-way ANOVA as it is comparing variables in multiple categories to determine a difference in results. The data I have collected so far shows patterns that support my hypothesis.
My updated hypothesis is: Arthropods are attracted to dead/rotting wood.
It is likely a great idea to increase your number of replicates, insects can be hard to get enough numbers in each sample.