Sampling method
A large, relatively uniform area of garrigue on a plateau (Le Plat De La Lause) was sampled using a sequence of 50 quadrats, each of 0.25m2. You can see the site and the sampling procedure in the associated video.
The area sampled was a flat area of limestone at an altitude of 250m with a shallow soil and abundant loose stones, dominated by grasses and thyme. Sampling began in the centre of this area. This allowed the quadrat to be placed next to each other in a continuous sequence. Over several transects this allowed us to survey an area of 12.5m2 (50 quadrats) before we encountered a different habitat type.
Rocky outcrops and bushes of juniper, pistachio, thyme and kermes oak border the site. The plant community changed significantly in these locations, probably indicating a different habitat type.
The associated photographs illustrate some of the plants on the site though not all of these were found in the quadrats. Another set provides views of the site.
We were unable to identify all plant species found (see the species list) so many of the specimens remain at the level of genus. Note that the list records species in the order in which they were found.
