transektoja
Transektoja is a Finnish-language term that translates to "transect" in English. A transect is a path or strip used for ecological or geological surveys. It is a method of sampling an area by walking along a straight line and recording observations at regular intervals or continuously. This technique is particularly useful for studying the distribution of species, vegetation patterns, or soil characteristics across a gradient or over a specific distance. Transects can vary in length and width depending on the research objectives. They are often marked with a rope or tape to ensure a consistent sampling path. Data collected along a transect can include the presence and abundance of different organisms, measurements of environmental factors like light intensity or temperature, or descriptions of geological features. The simplicity and effectiveness of the transect method make it a widely used tool in ecological fieldwork for understanding spatial variation within an environment.