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A coral reef is an underwater ecosystem formed as a ridge of mainly calcium carbonate deposits - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 9 - 2021 - Paper 2
Question 9
A coral reef is an underwater ecosystem formed as a ridge of mainly calcium carbonate deposits. Algae are photosynthesizing organisms. Some algae grow on coral reefs... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A coral reef is an underwater ecosystem formed as a ridge of mainly calcium carbonate deposits - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 9 - 2021 - Paper 2
Step 1
Method to determine the mean percentage cover of algae on a coral reef
Answer
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Random Sampling: Use a random number generator or table to select positions within the coral reef to ensure an unbiased sample.
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Quadrat Method: Place a quadrat, which is a square frame (e.g., 1m²), at the selected locations. This will help define the area over which algae coverage will be measured.
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Assessing Coverage: Count the number of grid squares within the quadrat that are covered by algae. Divide the number of squares covered by algae by the total number of squares in the quadrat to calculate the percentage of cover.
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Repeat Sampling: Conduct this process at multiple locations to obtain a larger sample size, ensuring better accuracy in the estimation of mean percentage cover of algae.