Distribution Patterns
(A) Vertical Distribution Diagram

Using the same vertical scale for height, students should draw up the vertical distribution for each species to gain an overall picture of the distribution pattern.

Species are arranged along the horizontal axis. To represent each species' distribution, draw a line from the highest point that they were found on the shore to the lowest point. Students results should show a variety of distribution patterns, some of which may be influenced predominantly by competition, others by predation and others by adaptations to abiotic stresses.

Vertical Distribution Diagram

(B) Horizontal Distribution Patterns

Students can select a number of species and plot the horizontal distribution of these species. Comparison can be made between a number of species and consideration then given as to why distribution patterns are similar or different.