the outputs of the data analysis phase of my field trip to Haida Gwaii, focusing on the Gal Gwan. The trip has been an exciting data adventure, revealing both expected and unexpected patterns concerning these species.
Data Organization and Summarization: As I dug further into the data gathered from systematic sampling across elevational gradients and microhabitats, the work of organizing, aggregating, and summarizing offered its own set of difficulties. The various ecosystems and climatic circumstances necessitated careful attention throughout data processing.
Aggregating Microhabitat Data: Collecting data from several microhabitats that favor Gal Gwan. The main factors determining their distribution include substrate type, moisture levels, and plant cover.
Elevational Gradient Patterns: To summarize data along elevational gradients, a balance of granularity and comprehensiveness was necessary. The collection of data points helped in identifying patterns in Gal Gwan abundance and coloring at various elevations.
Outcome vs. predictions: The data analysis’s outcomes matched some predictions while revealing surprising variations.
Gal Gwan showed preferences for certain microhabitat traits, with higher abundance in places with a mix of adequate substrate, optimal moisture levels, and plant cover.
Unexpected variances: Despite early expectations, certain elevational zones revealed unexpected variances in Gal Gwan colors. This irregular behavior suggests that more sophisticated ecological factors are impacting their adaptability.