The data was collected using the random sampling technique. A 1m × 1m quadrat was used to sample the data. A random number generator was used to generate the number of steps and for compass bearings. The area of the plot that was sampled is about 2200m^2. The maximum limit of steps was set to 30 steps and for compass bearing it was set to 360°.
It was not at all surprised at the invasive species dominance over other species. However, what surprised me was that despite such dominance, other species still persisted.
The main difficulty I faced was to figure out the starting point to sample. Because it was difficult to employ the coordinates on the plot, a starting point was needed to start the sampling. To avoid the bias, the very centre of the plot was chosen as the start point. Another difficulty was identifying and counting the species in the quadrat. At some places, the vegetation was so thick, it was difficult to both count and identify species.
For collecting the rest of the data, I used the same technique as the technique is simple, easy to use and unbiased. A rule was set to take another number from the generator if the current number leads to taking the sample from outside of the plot limits. Otherwise, everything else remained the same.
looking at the image of the study, I see a pathway. Was this avoided as well?
For consideration of your Discussion, are there elements of the site that might have been affected by variables like exposure to sun, shade, water run off etc differently? it may have resulted in over-sampling in one area over another, and can be mentioned
I think a transect method may have worked here as well