BIOL 2050 - Grassland Data Set #2

This dataset was collected by Eman, Azeb, Bava and Saraswatie. Multiple Cow’s Vetch (Vicia cracca) were measured along a transect line. Twenty different replicates were observed and recorded. Recorded measurements included distances of each plant along the transect line and the height of the plant from the root to the highest point. The measurements used were recorded in feet and inches. Recorded observations also included number of leaves on each plant. Any leaves found on the plant were counted regardless of their shape or size with the exception of leaves which appeared to be dead. Dead leaves were excluded from the data collection. Number of flowers on the actual plant was also observed and recorded. Individual flower pedals were counted by one member of the group in order to save time. Any flower that was located on the plant that was being observed was counted regardless of their shape or size. If the colouration indicated a dead flower or if it was blatantly obvious, the dead flower was not counted. Level of Crowdedness was also recorded. A range of 0-3 was used to indicate the level of crowdedness surrounding the plant under observance. If the plant was free from any form of crowdedness, a level of 0 was given. If the plant was surrounded by small amounts of vegetation, the rating given was 1. If the plant was surrounded by normal amounts of vegetation, it was given a 2 and if it was extremely crowded by vegetation, a 3 was given. This was a mensurative experiment as no experimental techniques were used. Data collection occurred in the Danby grasslands at York University - Keele Campus on September 24, 2015 at approximately 3:40pm to 4:20pm. The weather was approximately 21 degrees with varying sun and cloud activity. The grasslands were dry as no rain had fallen before our arrival. The vegetation of the grasslands would also increase the further you walked in. Occasional insects such as bees and flies would roam the area. The datasets were collected in a group of four, with each member contributing results. The purpose of this lab was to attain valuable field work experience in collecting and reporting data by recording it for plant populations.