Ecological Methods: With Particular Reference to the Study of Insect Populations - Softcover

Southwood, Sir Richard; Henderson, Peter

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0412307103 ISBN 13: 9780412307102

Publisher: Springer, 1987

Synopsis

the virtual impossibility of extracting the many different species from a habitat with equal efficiency by a single method (e.g. Nef, 1960). 1.1 Population estimates Population estimates can be classified into a number of different types; the most convenient classification is that adopted by Morris (1955), although he used the terms somewhat differently in a later paper (1960). 1.1.1 Absolute and related estimates The animal numbers may be expressed as a density per unit area of the ground of the habitat. Such estimates are given by nearest neighbour and related techniques (Chapter 2), marking and recapture (Chapter 3), by sampling a known fraction of the habitat (Chapter 4-6) and by removal sampling and random walk techniques (Chapter 7). Absolute population The number of animals per unit area (e.g. hectare, acre). It is almost impossible to construct a budget or to study mortality factors without the conversion of population estimates to absolute figures, for not only do insects often move from the plant to the soil at different developmental stages, but the amount of plant material is itself always changing. The importance of obtaining absolute estimates cannot be overemphasized.

About this title

Synopsis

This edition has been substantially revised and rewritten, taking into account the advances made in the field in the 12 years since the first edition was published. It covers the methods and techniques that are available for the study of populations and ecosystems. Although particular emphasis is placed on the study of insect populations, the methods discussed have a wide application, and are of relevance to ecologists in all fields. Techniques used to obtain both absolute and relative population estimates are described, and approaches to the direct measurement of birth, death and migration reviewed. The final chapters turn to methods used in the measurement and description of diversity, species packing, energy flow and trophic relationships, and the use of theoretical models in ecology. The text shows a wide range of equipment and methods of analysis. It should be of interest to all students in the fields of ecology and entomology.

Edition details

• Publisher: Springer
• Publication date: 1987
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0412307103
• ISBN 13: 9780412307102
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 548