Sample interview questions: How do you approach studying the effects of noise pollution on invertebrate communities?
Sample answer:
Approaching the Study of Noise Pollution Effects on Invertebrate Communities
1. Identify Study Area and Target Species:
Select a study site with varying levels of noise pollution and prioritize invertebrate species of interest based on their abundance, ecological significance, or sensitivity to sound.
2. Quantify Noise Levels:
Measure and characterize noise levels using sound level meters or noise dosimeters. Consider parameters such as frequency range, intensity, and duration to assess potential effects on invertebrates.
3. Establish Reference and Control Sites:
Establish areas with varying noise levels, ranging from quiet reference sites to noisy experimental sites. Control sites should resemble experimental sites but with negligible noise pollution.
4. Sample and Identify Invertebrates:
Collect invertebrate samples using appropriate methods (e.g., pitfall traps, sweep netting) at both reference and experimental sites. Identify invertebrates to the species level, if possible.
5. Assess Community Structure and Diversity:
Compare species richness, abundance, and community composition between reference and experimental sites. Statistical analyses can identify significant differences in diversity indices and species composition. Read full answer