Today, we spent our afternoon underwater survey fish to calculate a Simpson's Index for species diversity. We look at the reef crest and reef slope. For 20 minutes, we swam at a depth of 40 feet tallying the different species of fish we saw on the reef slope. After 20 minutes, we ascended to 15 feet to survey the reef crest. We swam along the reef crest for the same amount of time and at a constant depth. With the data collected, we will then input our data into the computer and calculate the Simpson's Index to determine the species diversity at these two different depths and positions on the reef.
This is a possible research method that we could use for our own independent research projects that we will be starting in the next couple of weeks. We are in the beginning stages of planning our research projects, which entails developing a proposal to present to our class and advisors.
In one of the upcoming posts, I will describe to you what I am planning on doing for my project. I want to wait until after the proposal is completed so I can incorporate any ideas that my peers may have.
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