Species abundance, accumulation and diversity data.

Abstract Ecologists in particular are often interested in the species richness and diversity of groups of organisms, ranging from studies of small ecosystems to global patterns. In most cases it is not possible to count every individual or to detect every species, and so they use a variety of estimation methods and summary statistics that will be briefly introduce in this chapter. This chapter covers estimating species abundance and species richness by looking at accumulation curves. Analyzing diversity using tests such as the Shannon and Simpson diversity indices are also discussed. Finally, patterns of niche partitioning using the broken stick model are created. An example is shown, using transect surveys of butterflies in Papua New Guinea.