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Data was collected January 16th 2019 at 9:00am at Piper’s Lagoon, Nanaimo, BC
I separated my area into six areas (A through F) in which I implemented a closest distance quadrant method. Each sample point I recorded the nearest four tree species, and each area contained 5 sample points resulting in 120 tree species recorded. I chose to separate the points enough that any tree would not be sampled twice. I recorded the location of points on a separate map. I decided to remove Alnus rubra from the analysis because only a single tree was observed (but not recorded). I found it difficult to choose representative sites without being biased. I wanted to record data that represented each area, therefore, chose to consistently follow the footpath.
The six areas studied had previously been divided into ocean exposure levels from 1-6, 1 being the most protected. Most protected E > F > A >B> D > C
The observed patterns during data collection were:
- Quercus garryana and Arbutus menziesii occur in similar environments on rocky substrates with little soil
- Pseudotsuga menziesii grow concentrated together forming forested environment
- Quercus garryana was observed in every area in different abundances
These made me reflect on my hypothesis that ocean exposure affects angiosperm occurrence. Perhaps other factors such as substrate type are contributing to the pattern.
