This program covers the mandatory practicals for Describing Biodiversity and Ecosystem Classification (Syllabus 4.3, Topic 1) and Ecosystem Dynamics (Syllabus 4.4, Topic 2) from the Biology General Senior Syllabus 2019: Syllabus Version 1.3.
See below for Resources and Risk Assessments
Program details
Venue: Goomburra Valley near Allora
Duration: 5 hours
Program overview
Note: A detailed Teacher Manual is available from Amaroo EEC on request. Amaroo can also provide a student field workbook with appropriate data capture tables.
TOPIC 1 - Describing Biodiversity - Mandatory Practical 1
(Species diversity)
Determine species diversity of a group of organisms based on a given index. (Syllabus 4.3, Topic 1)
- Plant diversity: using quadrats and a line-of-sight transect at the Poplar Flat area, students could sample plant species, providing data for analysis using Simpson’s Diversity Index as well as enabling determinations on species frequency and density.
- Invertebrate diversity: aquatic invertebrates could be sampled at the Poplar Flat and Gordon Country campground and Allora sites, providing data for analysis using Simpson’s Diversity Index. Abiotic factors such as turbidity, electrical conductivity, pH, dissolved oxygen etc. could also be assessed.
TOPIC 1 - Describing Biodiversity - Mandatory Practical 2
(Ecosystem classification)
Use the process of stratified sampling to collect and analyse primary biotic and abiotic field data to classify an ecosystem. (Syllabus 4.3, Topic 1)
- Amaroo can provide a data capture table using a modified version of Specht's classification system and equipment for conducting stratified sampling. This could be completed in the verge area at the Poplar Flat site using a line-of-sight transect sample, and would involve recording dominant vegetation life-forms and species, height category, % canopy cover, subdominant (understory) type/s and soil type.
- Sampling could be stratified by using a line or belt transect to record heights as well as species type, providing data for constructing a side elevation profile of the transect showing vegetation layers.
- Further abiotic data can be collected if required (wind speed, temperature etc.)
TOPIC 2 - Ecosystem dynamics - Mandatory Practical 3
(Changing ecosystems)
Select and appraise an ecological surveying technique to analyse species diversity between two spatially variant ecosystems of the same classification (e.g. a disturbed and undisturbed dry sclerophyll forest). (Syllabus 4.4, Topic 2)
- The creek ecosystem could be investigated by comparing diversity in aquatic macroinvertebrates (water bugs) between the relatively pristine Poplar Flat area of Dalrymple Creek and the creek areas further down the waterway at Gordon Country and Allora where recreation, grazing and other activities have had a significant impact.
- To provide a broader ecological context for any contrast in water bug diversity between the two sites, Amaroo can assist with:
- abiotic water testing at each site
- activities to analyse the ecological condition of the creek verge at each site, even though they represent different ecosystem types. At both Poplar Flat and Gordon Country sites a score can be generated as a snapshot of ecosystem condition to compare with a biocondition benchmark score developed from a relevant regional ecosystem from Qld's Regional Ecosystem Condition Assessments and from assessment by Amaroo staff.
Resources for mandatory pracs + exam
Amaroo EEC can supply materials, including a site-specific plant identification key, for the activities listed above.
The PowerPoint presentations below are useful for
- preparing students for fieldwork before the event;
- for consolidation after the day; and
- for revision prior to the external exam.
FOR CONTEXT
SPECIES DIVERSITY, SAMPLING METHODS & APPRAISING TECHNIQUES
CLASSIFYING ECOSYSTEMS
- Classifying Ecosystems (PPSX, 11.90 MB - what, why, how, stratified sampling)
- Assessing Canopy Cover (PPSX, 11.87 MB - what, why, how)
- Effective Ecosystem Management (PPSX, 16.92 MB - why, key factors, stakeholders)
- Soil Testing - Texture (PPSX, 1.28 MB)
OF PARTICULAR RELEVANCE FOR THE EXTERNAL EXAM
Please note
There are basic toilet facilities at the Poplar Flat and Gordon Country sites. Visiting schools should provide drinking water. Water bottles, sunscreen and insect protection are recommended for students.
Curriculum Activity Risk Assessments (CARAs)
Because the activities associated with Amaroo's Exploring Ecosystem programs are rated at a low or medium inherent risk level, specific curriculum risk assessment documents for this program are not required. The general risk assessment document below has, however, been prepared by Amaroo staff if you would like to use it. CARAs that are required for any specific activities will need to be developed by the visiting school; these should be approved by your school principal and filed for your records.