ENCM 21062- Ecology Laboratory
Practical No 1
Understanding the Environment
Introduction
An organism’s environment consists of biotic and abiotic components. There are
many ways in which organisms can interact with the individuals of the same species and
members of different species. Ecology is the study of the interactions among organisms and,
between organisms and their environments. When describing the distribution and abundance
of plants and animals it is important to describe the major biotic features of the environment
because these variables are often key explanatory variables for the abundance of biotic
components.
Learning outcomes
At the end of this session, students will be able to understand the components of the
environment and to measure major environmental variables using the relevant equipment.
Methodology
(A) Each student should observe the surrounding environment.
1. Name 10 biotic components in the environment.
2. Name 05 abiotic components in the environment.
3. Explain at least 03 interactions between the individuals of a named organism
(biotic interactions).
4. Explain at least 03 interactions among individuals of two different species
(biotic interactions).
5. Explain at least 03 interactions between the individuals of a named organism
and the environment (biotic and abiotic interactions).
(B) Name major environmental factors (variables) of your environment.
(C) Measure each factor using appropriate equipment provided in the laboratory.
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Mercury thermometer
Minimum/ Maximum thermometer
Soil pH meter, pH papers
Anemometer (or cup anemometer)/ Beaufort scale of winds and wind meter
Rain gauge
Hygrometer
Lux meter
Write a brief description on how you took the reading from each equipment (draw a
sketch if necessary).
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Please complete your practical report and hand-over it to the relevant demonstrator.
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