Pioneer Species Optimal Soil Conditions in Costa Rica's Central Pacific Tropical Rainforest
Introduction
Purpose
Methods
Data
Results
Discussion
Future
Course Homepage
l
- Utilize previous knowledge - I wanted to use information that I had learned recently in a plant identification class. It had inspired me to take a new interest in plant life and forest succession.
l
- Explore new subject - A professor had once told me that as a biology major I should have a good understanding of soils and should take at least one class on it. I decided that by conducting my experiment on soil conditions I would be helping myself learn more and important information in my field that will help me in the future.
l
- Apply interest in biodiversity - An integral part of the rainforest and the reason that it is so important to retain and rebuild is that it contains so much of the world'd biodiversity.
Hypothesis:
lPioneering species grow in soil conditions that have lower pH and higher temperature (more extreme conditions) than soils where they do not grow.
lThe logic is that since pioneering species are on the edge of disturbed land they are more exposed to the elements of sun and rain. The soil is washed of nutrients that have negative charges leaving the soil to which they cling which is positively charged. The result is lower pH. As well the soil is subject to more direct heat from the sun causing a raise in temperature.
| Introduction | Purpose | Methods | Data | Results | Discussion | Future | Course Homepage |