An Update on Low-tech Methods for Forest Canopy Access and on Sampling a Forest Canopy

Research interest in canopy processes, particularly in tropical rain forests, has increased substantially in recent years both as a consequence and cause of a wide range of canopy access techniques. Recent developments in low-tech canopy access methods are described which increase versatility of access
and extend sampling capability. There follows a discussion of sampling issues in canopy research, including demonic intrusion, systematic error, pseudoreplication, non-random sampling, and the problem of working in three-dimensions. In conclusion, possible improvements in canopy sampling capability are suggested, particularly with respect to further increases in access flexibility, development of better sampling strategies, and increased communication of protocols by canopy researchers.