Answer:
To compare species diversity, genetic diversity, and functional diversity between two sites, researchers could investigate the following set of questions:
1. Species Diversity:
a. How many different species are present in each site?
b. What is the relative abundance of each species at each site?
c. Are there any indicator species that are unique to one site?
d. How does species richness differ between the two sites?
e. Are there any patterns or trends in species composition between the two sites?
2. Genetic Diversity:
a. What is the genetic variability within each species at each site?
b. How does the genetic diversity differ between the two sites?
c. Are there any unique or rare genetic variants present at one site?
d. Are there any signs of inbreeding or genetic bottlenecks at either site?
e. Are there any differences in genetic structure or gene flow between the two sites?
3. Functional Diversity:
a. What are the functional traits of the species present at each site?
b. How does functional diversity differ between the two sites?
c. Are there any species at one site that provide unique ecosystem functions?
d. How do functional groups or guilds differ between the two sites?
e. Are there any relationships between functional diversity and ecosystem processes at each site?
Step-by-step explanation:
By addressing these questions, researchers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the similarities and differences in species diversity, genetic diversity, and functional diversity between the two sites. This information can help inform conservation efforts, ecological management, and our understanding of the ecological processes occurring in each site.