User: | Open Learning Faculty Member:
I have recorded 30 replicates on each beach for a total of 60 replicates. I measured the length and aperture of the dog whelks and calculated a ratio to help me compare the results for both beaches. I took each measurement with a Vernier caliper and measured the height of the shore above chart datum using a clinometer and a meter ruler. I took each measurement at random along a 20 m transect and recorded the results.
I had to finish taking my measurements before the tide rose up too high. I didn’t have a hard time implementing the sample design. Plus I gave myself plenty of time to record my results from Jetty beach to Castle beach.
I noticed an ancillary pattern that the length to aperture ratio of the dog whelks at Castle beach is generally smaller compared to Jetty beach. The pattern supports my hypothesis and prediction which stated that the exposure to wave action influences the length to aperture ratio of dog whelks thus the length to aperture ratio will be smaller in the exposed beach.
