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Delineate the distribution of either the lynx or fisher. In other words, repeat the in-class exercise but use the lynx or fisher coverage in stead of the wolverine coverage. |
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Delineate the distribution of either the lynx or fisher. In other words, repeat the in-class exercise but use the lynx or fisher coverage in stead of the wolverine coverage. |
You may also try using Omernik's ecoregion classification instead of Bailey's. There is debate about the merits and validity of each system. They incorporate similar ideas but base their hierarchy on somewhat different classification criteria. In some geographic areas (especially "ecotone" areas) the ecoregion boundaries of each system are quite different. It might be interesting to compare the distribution maps using the two different classification systems (but this is not required for this problem set). Note: you may encounter "segmentation errors" when using the Omernik coverage. If this occurs, just use Bailey's coverage.
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Answer the following questions: |
1. Is the population distribution that you delineated an example of a species population, subspecies population, metapopulation, population, deme, or a combination of the above? Explain your answer carefully. (3 points)
2. Has the distribution of lynx or fisher (whichever one you chose to work with) in the western United States changed? Justify your answer. (3 points)
3. List and describe any limitations/problems with the data set you used? How might these limitations (if any) influence the interpretation of the data and any conclusions drawn from your analysis. (3 points)
4. Compare and contrast the spatial distribution (presence/absence) and the density of a species. (3 points)
5. Describe two potential applications (one wildlife, one fisheries) of this type of spatial analysis (or something similar). Make sure to include what kind of data may be needed and the importance of the analysis. (6 points)
Turn in the following (due next week at the beginning of lab):A map of either the fisher or lynx distribution in western United States. The map does not have to be in color. (2 points)
Answers to the 5 discussion questions listed above. REMEMBER, answers must be typed and double-spaced. Points will be deducted for improper grammar, spelling errors, and poor organization. Make sure your name and lab-section number are on the front page. Place your map after your answer page(s). Please staple your problem set pages in the upper-left corner. (18 total points--see above for breakdown)
Return to Lab Notes Revised: 27 August 2011