Performance of sampling strategies in the presence of known spatial patterns

摘要: In crop protection and ecology accurate precise estimates of insect populations are required for many purposes. The spatial pattern the organism sampled, in relation to sampling scheme adopted, affects difference between actual estimated population density, bias, variability that estimate, precision. Field monitoring schemes usually adopt time-efficient regimes involving contiguous units rather than most efficient estimation, completely random sample. This paper uses spatially-explicit ecological field data on aphids beetles compare common regimes. sample was method often precise; line transect superior more compact arrangements such as a square block. Bias depended relationship size shape group comprising dominant cluster underlying pattern. Existing knowledge inform choice may provide considerable improvements accuracy. It is recommended use transects longer grain pattern, where defined average dimension clusters over both patches gaps, with length at least twice size.