To estimate the standing crop and biomass of a terrestrial ecosystem

Aim :- 

To estimate the standing crop and biomass of a terrestrial ecosystem.

Materials :-

1. Quadrats (square or rectangular frames) of a fixed size (e.g., 1m x 1m)

2. Measuring tape or rope

3. Clippers or scissors

4. Balance or weighing machine

5. Data sheet and pencil

6. Calculator

Theory :-

Standing crop refers to the total amount of living biomass present in a given area at a particular time. Biomass is the weight of living organisms in a given area. Estimating standing crop and biomass is essential for understanding the structure and function of ecosystems.

Procedure :-

1. *Selection of Study Site*: Choose a study site with a relatively homogeneous vegetation cover.

2. *Laying Out Quadrats*: Randomly place quadrats in the study site. The number of quadrats will depend on the size of the study site and the level of precision desired.

3. *Harvesting Vegetation*: Clip or cut the vegetation within each quadrat at ground level.

4. *Weighing Biomass*: Weigh the harvested vegetation using a balance or weighing machine. Record the weight in grams or kilograms.

5. *Calculating Standing Crop*: Calculate the standing crop by dividing the total weight of biomass by the area of the quadrat.

6. *Calculating Biomass*: Calculate the biomass by summing the weights of all the harvested vegetation.

Precautions : -

1. Ensure that the quadrats are randomly placed to avoid bias.

2. Clip or cut the vegetation carefully to avoid damaging the roots or underground biomass.

3. Weigh the biomass accurately using a calibrated balance or weighing machine.

4. Avoid contaminating the biomass with debris or other materials.

5. Ensure that the calculations are accurate and precise.

Results : -

1. Record the standing crop and biomass values for each quadrat.

2. Calculate the mean standing crop and biomass values for the study site.

3. Express the results in units of weight per unit area (e.g., g/m² or kg/ha).