Phragmites Collection

The basic method of collecting data on Phragmites is to sample stems from the most recent summer’s growth using a transect through the Phragmites stand, and then sampling plants within several one square meter quadrats spaced along this transect. picture

Transect sampling consists of walking a straight line (using a compass, or a visual aid such as a tall tree or a mountain peak) and taking samples along that line at variable distances. For example, you might sample every 5, 10 or 50 meters. As a reasonable guideline for collection it is best to have between 5 and 10 1m² quadrats spaced evenly throughout the stand. The distance between quadrats at your site then depends on the size of the Phragmites patch you intend to sample.

A quadrat is often used in ecological studies as a specific area from which data is collected.

Quadrat sampling involves taking all plants within an area, such as an area of a square meter. This technique is used to acquire a representative sample of the plants or animals in any area. If you count the number of individuals of a species within an area, you are measuring the density or abundance of that species. Many interesting questions can be answered using this design.

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Copyright 2002. Bernd Blossey. Cornell University
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