Transect

A transect (English transect ) is a set of measurement or observation points along a straight line. Transects are methodically used in scientific disciplines which create a spatial reference to the object being examined. Above all transects are used in field studies ( mapping ) in ecology ( Botany and Zoology ), as well as in geology and geo-ecology.

Methodology

A transect can be chosen according to different scales. In general, a transect is linear. On it, measurement or observation points are set. Advantage of the Transect is the repeatability and standardization even in difficult terrain conditions.

The transect mapping is often used as an alternative to more complex grid mapping.

Transects can be up to hundreds of kilometers long by a few meters. You can for exact alignment, for example, measured by GPS or flight bars as well as better retrieval using markers (eg, cords, rods ) are marketable.

Zoology

For sedentary species or species with a small radius (insects, amphibians, reptiles) to transect offer.

In moths, a field study along a transect eg all 50m run as follows: A transect is paced in a slow and steady pace and all the butterflies registered, to about 2.5 m to the right and left of the road and 5 meters in front and you can see it. The investigation is carried out in a single period (eg 50 m takes you about 5 minutes ).

In ornithology is often mapped the breeding monitoring along a transect. In the area mapping (eg skylark ) is often going on and along a transect. In the " Monitoring the German breeding birds in the normal landscape " by the DDA and for the German Atlas of breeding birds ADEBAR transects are used for standardized detection.