Actually, an Excel solution is pretty straight-forward. Here's how I'd do it:
1. Sort your entire data table by species name, such that each species is in its own block. For example, all of Species 1 together in a block, then the next block will be Species 2, etc. 2. Insert a blank column next to your Spp_ID column. For example, if your Spp_ID column is Column A, then insert a blank column just to the right of Column A. Thus, your blank column is Column B. 3. Type in a column identifier for Column B. For example, if "Spp_ID" is the text entry of your A1 cell, then type in "Spp_Code" in cell B1. 4. In the cell B2, type in the following Excel formula (without quotes): "=if(a2=a1,0,1)". [Then, press <Enter> key on your keyboard.] 5. Copy the formula in cell B2 all the way down to the last B cell in your database. 6. Sum up all of the "1" entries in your B column. For example, if your last cell in the B column is B22001, then write the following formula in ANY clear cell of your worksheet (again, without quotes): "=sum(B1:B22001)". [Then, press <Enter> key on your keyboard.] I hope these simple instructions help. Let me know if you require further clarification. With regards, Alex Olvido, Assistant Prof. Virginia State Univ.
