Line Transect

This is used to measure areas where there may be a significant change in the distribution of plant species. Recordings are made at specified intervals (e.g. 1 metre) along the line (using string, rope or a tape measure) where plants touch the line at the interval point.

Advantages
• Quick and cheap way of collecting data.
• Particularly useful where there are distinct plant differences, e.g. embankments, rocky shores.
• Suitable for thinly populated areas.

Disadvantages
• Sampling design may not be representative of vegetation, as the line can readily miss area.
• Not as accurate for more densely populated areas.
• Smaller quantity of data collected.