We are investigating the ecosystem of a local stream, The Tulpehocken Creek. Field Studies are scheduled which provide an excellent experience in Ecology. We will do some of the activities in class, and observe specimens.
Answer the following questions in complete sentences. You will need to DEFINE some of these terms , before applying them:
1. What are the abiotic and biotic factors in this ecosystem?
a. Make a T-Chart listing the factors.
b. Make an organism profile with a photo. ( You will be assigned an organism.) Provide the genus and species name, habitat, size, general characteristics and label it as a consumer, producer, predator, prey, and name its kingdom. THIS MUST BE PRINTED and posted for sharing.
2. Describe the biotic interactions in this ecosystem:
a. Describe competition in this ecosystem.
b. Describe predation in this ecosystem.
c. Describe and example of symbiosis in this ecosystem. Look up Lichen.
3. Explain how matter is recycled in this ecosystem.
a. Describe the water cycle in this ecosystem with specific names and processes. FOR EXAMPLE: The Tulpehocken Creek is fed by the Cacoosing Creek. ( Use Google Earth)
b. Get GPS coordinates for the Red Bridge site, Grings Mill Bridge, and the Cacossing/Tulpehocken site at Paper Mill Rd.
c. Explain the Nitrogen Cycle in this ecosystem.
4. Describe how this ecosystem has changed in response to natural and human disturbances:
a. How does the Blue Marsh Dam affect the Creek below the dam?
b. What is the flow of the creek on this date? Document the date and the flow in cfs from a USGS source.
c. What are possible sources of pollution in the creek and surrounding land?
d. How else have people affected the Creek?
e. How has nature affected the Creek?
5. How does energy flow in this ecosystem?
a. In a lab group, make a poster of a food chain using drawings and labels.
b. Make a food web with names and simple drawings of organisms with the class.
6.MAKE a list : Identify the organisms in the food web as : autotrophs, heterotrophs, primary producers, carnivores, decomposers, herbivores.
7. Observe specimens and identify them in a lab activity. Make a chart :
Number a paper 1-24 .List the name of the specimens, measure it in cm or mm, and include a sketch with the distinguishing characteristic. Label as a consumer or producer, predator, prey, other.
8. Test the water samples and report the pH, Conductivity, Dissolved Solids. Add this data to your report. Do any additional tests assigned and report the results. LAB : Water Testing
Additional Information: