Nature • Classes 9–12
Count carefully, conclude fairly
Two patches of ground can open a question about biodiversity.
Take your time. Speak, draw or write your answers.
Here is what is happening.
Species richness counts the different species observed, not the total individuals. Fair comparisons need similar area and effort. Short observations can miss organisms; uncertain identification should be recorded rather than guessed.
Your little investigation
What you need
A safe garden view or the imaginary data here. Do not disturb organisms or enter unsafe ground.
Patch A: 6 individuals of species X, 4 of Y. Patch B: 2 each of X, Y and Z.
Compare total individuals and observed species richness separately.
List what you would need to know about sampling before interpreting the difference.
Which patch has higher observed species richness?
KEEP ASKING
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