egret
Common egret. S.F. Bay
Photo©CLCase

Biology 230

Research Project

 

This spring is a hillside or gravity spring; the water does not issue under artesian pressure, but as seepage, in which the water percolates from small fractures in the rock.

Factors to consider:

 

Physical factors

Productivity

Click on the circles to explore the spring.

 

Pond size (length, width, depth)
Rainfall
Water temperature
Water pH
Stream length, flow rate
O2 content
Water turbidity

Biological factors

Biochemical tests

  • Chlorophyll
  • Nitrogen content as nitrate ion
  • Phosphate concentration
  • Dissolved oxygen

 

the pond

Determine the effect on productivity of:

 

  • The temperature incrreases?
  • UV radiation increases?
  • Road run-off

 

Before beginning, talk with the instructor to see the spring and to develop your work plan.