In California, many irrigation areas with dry regions contain an elevated level hard minerals in the soil. The buildup of minerals prevents plants from growing and thriving successfully. In the experiment, we were given an EcoFAB, seedlings, and two different types of media for the plant to observe the the effects of different levels of sodium on plant growth. Some indication of good plant growth includes green stems, green leaves, long, white roots, and increase in plant height and length.
The Lawrence Berkeley National Lab created Ecological Fabrications (EcoFABs) to improve the ability to study plants and root growth. The device is made of thin glass which encourages the roots to grow towards it, and increases visibility to study the root under different environments.
The grass seedlings we were given to experiment with are called Brachypodium distachyon. It is a model plant because of its size and life span. They can last from 3-10 weeks which gives scientists enough time to study while keeping it time efficient.
We were given two bottles of media to water our plants with. One has nutrients that are ideal for plants to grow in, the other has an elevated level of sodium in it.