Scientists use a wide range of methods and types of equipment to study habitats. Some of the basic methods are outlined below.
1. Mapping an ecosystem Once you have chosen a site for your habitat study, the first step is to make a simple map of it. A legend should be used to clearly represent the main features of the site.
N Legend An
explanation of the symbols and colours that are used in a map.
W E S
Stone Wall Footpath Marsh Grass
Fig. 5 A map of an ecosystem.
2. Measuring environmental factors Environmental factors include: Temperature of the air, soil and any water present Light intensity Aspect (the direction that the site faces) Wind speed
l l l l
These factors affect where plants and animals live. Factor
l l l l
168
Air, water and soil temperatures Light intensity Aspect (direction that the site faces) Wind speed
l l l l
Measuring equipment used
Thermometer and soil thermometer Light meter Compass
