Appraising Variability in Population Studies

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Abstract
The general question of determining sample size for population [plant and animal] studies is discussed. Different objectives for population studies are described as a basis for determining the appropriate approach to selecting a sample size. The bases for mathematical models for various methods of population study are discussed, with particular emphasis on the situations in which indices or relative measures of abundance are used. A classification of population census methods is given. Several variance-laws for index data are discussed, and an extensive tabulation of data on variability of aquatic and terrestrial indices is presented. Several equations for calculating sample sizes are listed. References to various published tables and charts for determining sample size follow. [Several equators are useful in calculating terrestrial and aquatic management parameters.].