This is a method used by
ecological field researchers to
sample the number of
plant species in an area.
In a plot sampling, a section is marked off, either in a round or rectangular frame or string boundary. Then, the researcher goes through the plot and counts all the appropriate plants. This method is tedious and time consuming, and one must be able to move freely within the plot to get an accurate measurement.
Plotless sampling methods (in which points to sample are selected at random within the study area) are more useful in surveying rough or very brushy terrain.