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White Oaks A Keystone Species
White Oaks A Keystone Species
White oaks are a keystone species in our local environment. They serve many ecological and economic purposes. Plus, they sequester large amounts of carbon dioxide making them important in combating global warming.
A Scientific Investigation
A Scientific Investigation
White oaks are often out competed in germination creating an aging population of trees. We wanted to learn how to increase the rate of germination for these acorns so they could be propagated and planted in the area to bolster white oak population.
Designing An Acorn Trap
First we had to design an acorn trap design.
First we had to design an acorn trap design.
If the acorns hit the ground they were more likely to become infected with pests.
If the acorns hit the ground they were more likely to become infected with pests.
We installed our acorn trap in a local preserve called Spenser Woods.
We installed our acorn trap in a local preserve called Spenser Woods.
Researching Previous Studies
Researching Previous Studies
My class worked together to research general facts about the white oak and its germination strategies. We visited the libarary at Catawba College and my partner and I found specific resources relevant to our topic of study which was how soil type influenced germination.
Designing the Experiment
Designing the Experiment
My partner and I created an experiment to determine how the amount of light affected the germination of the seeds. Our independent variable was the light and the dependent variable was the amount of growth. Our hypothesis was that more light would lead to more growth. It took longer than we expected to see any germination, but after about 6 weeks the epicotyls began to emerge.
My partner and I measured all of the soil to assure each acorn had the same amount.
My partner and I measured all of the soil to assure each acorn had the same amount.
We planted each acorn at the same depth. Each tray held 12 acorns and was given a different soil type.
We planted each acorn at the same depth. Each tray held 12 acorns and was given a different soil type.
Then we waited for them to grow.
Then we waited for them to grow.
The Results
The Results
Presenting the Findings
Presenting the Findings
I had the opportunity to present my findings at my school's exhibition night. We created a poster to share the final paper.
My Scientific Research on Quercus alba
My Scientific Research on Quercus alba
We created a research poster for the white oak species in relation to their varying germination process due to different soil types, which help in healthy environment sequestration.
Publication
Publication
The full paper discussing our research can be found in this iBook.
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