A comparative evaluation of tree species in different geographical elevations in Provo, Utah

Plant diversity due to elevation in areas such as Utah Lake and Rock Canyon

Leah Clayton, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo Utah, 84602 Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not elevation influences where certain kinds of plants such as trees and scrubs would occur naturally. To find this out I went to two areas that are not occupied by humans, Utah Lake and Rock Canyon, both of which are in Provo Utah. I recorded the elevation, took samples and pictures of various types of plants. I found that elevation does affect whether or not certain plants are found in each area natively, not put there by humans. Each location had its own plants that were specific to that location and elevation.

Key words: native plants, altitude, elevation, naturally occurring

Influence of Altitude and Associated Variables

on Variation in Plant Growth

Zach Corbridge, 755 North 100 East Apt. C308

Provo, UT 84606 USA

(email: [e-mail])

Abstract

Utah’s Rocky Mountains provide us with a rich diversity in plant life, ranging from the bases up to the very summits. Few explanations have been given for the cause of this differentiation in plant species, particularly the variation between species at high altitudes and low altitudes. I became intrigued to observe the plant types and growth amount at these two altitudinal levels and investigate the associated variables that cause this differentiation. Plant and tree samples were taken at a low altitude and a high altitude in the Rocky Mountains as well as measurements of air temperature, air pressure, soil temperature, and altitude. Data and species research was analyzed to find consistencies and parallels between the species’ adaption capabilities to their environment and the conditions of the environment I was observing. Significant results demonstrated that at a lower altitude there was a greater variation in species, but as altitude is increased, the variation in plant species decreases. I found that the species at the higher altitudinal level were generally more tolerant to extreme conditions, this research is consistent with my data as I saw decreases in air and soil temperature and air pressure at this elevation, resulting in an environment that is too harsh for the majority of the species that make up the diversity found at the lower elevation levels.

Keywords: altitude, species variation, vegetation richness, Rocky Mountains, plant diversity.

Amount of water in leaves of shrub plants in the fall on BYU campus: Provo, Utah USA

Erin E. Cowley, 2122 North 120 West Apt. 296, Provo, Utah 84604

Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

There are hundreds of different types of shrubs and plants found in the dry desert state of Utah. The purpose of this study is to see which common shrubs found in Utah conserve the most water efficiently. Five different shrubs were chosen from around the campus of Brigham Young University and tested to determine which plant could survive off the least amount of water present and therefore is better at conserving water. The plants were tested by weighing twenty-five leaves chosen from each plant and then baking them at a consistently low heat for nine hours, then once done baking they were reweighed and the weights were compared. The results show that the Mahonia aquifolium (Oregon grape) was the best at surviving on the least amount of water out of the five different shrub plants chosen. It was also concluded that Prunus Cistena (Cistena Plum) was the least efficient with surviving on the least amount of water.

Keywords: Conservation, Water, Mahonia aquifolium, Shrub, Prunus Cistena

The Success of the Dragonfly Larva as an Aquatic Predator

Phillip E.M. Cox, 669 East 800 North Apt # N201, Provo Utah 84606, Email: [e-mail]

Abstract:

In this experiment, I tried to find how different kinds of larva of the Dragonfly perform as a hunter before it immerges as an adult. I first tried to determine what kinds of food the larva prefers. After awhile it seemed that they would eat anything that is smaller than itself and unable to run away fast enough. I then separated the larva, placed them in different containers, gave them the same number of isopods as a food source, and timed to see how long it would take them to eat the isopods within one hour.

Key words: Dragonfly larva, food, hunter The attraction of Apis Mellifera to certain types of flowers more than others in Orem, Utah, U.S.A. (Insecta: Hypemonpter: Apidae).

Elisa A. Craig, 2216 Hinckley Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

Each flower has certain characteristics which influence how many bees go to it. Many different factors can determine whether a bee favors going to one flower over another. These factors can include color, scent, shape, nectar, pollen, and even how rare the flower is. Experiments took place in my backyard in Orem, Utah. Obervations were made of four different kinds of flowers and how many bees were attracted to each kind during three different times of the day. The flowers included a New England Aster, a Salvia, a Geranium, and a Marigold. I found that the bees were especially attracted to the New England Aster over the other three flowers. I took into consideration the time of day to see whether or not this effected the bees patterns. I found that there was a greater amount of bees in the morning and afternoon, rather than the evening.

Key Words: floral communities, pollinator communities, ecosystem process, attraction, rewards

The pattern in which leaves senesce: A study of Gambel Oak (Quercus gambelii)

Stephanie Cuzner, 2081 N 40 W Apt. 317, Provo, Utah 84604. Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

Using pattern seeking, observation, and temperatures, I discerned any patterns in which leaves senesced in the species of Quercus gambelii, commonly known as Gambel Oak. I observed where on the leaves and where on the tree color first appeared during autumn. I graphed the temperatures over the space a little over a month (October 8^th through November 11^th) and compared the week following the observation to how much the tree had changed. By taking pictures and using them for deeper comparison I found a pattern in the way Gambel oak senescence and a correlation to the temperature highs and lows.

Key words: senescing leaves, temperatures, patterns

The Process of Foliage in The Logan Canyon, Logan, Utah, U.S.A.

Whitney R. Davis, 933 North University Avenue Apt. 4, Provo, Utah 84602.

Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

I have always wondered about the process of foliage during the fall season. I was curious why and how it took place. For this nature experience I decided to research trees in the Logan Canyon to figure out why the different affects of the fall season result in the changing of color in leaves. After doing some research I found that in the fall, days become colder and shorter. Because of this, the leaves don’t get the right amount of nutrients and energy from the sun that they need to continue growing and for creating nutrients to provide for the tree. The leaves change from a green to a different color because the chlorophyll breaks down and the green pigment is no longer seen. I realized after researching how this was occurring, but was curious to find out if the leaves would change faster at a higher elevation and if sunlight differed with the changing of elevation. I picked four deciduous trees of the same kind but in different altitude levels and four times in a two-week period I observed those four trees to see if the trees in the higher elevation levels performed foliage at a faster rate.

Keywords: chlorophyll, elevation, foliage, maple tree, sunlight

The Effect of Different Types of Water on the pH of Soil

Blake Day, 34 East 700 North Provo, Utah 84604, e-mail: [e-mail]

Abstract

Most plants flourish and grow in a soil with a fairly neutral pH level. However there are some plants which prefer a more acidic soil and even those which prefer a more alkaline soil. Whichever the plants prefer it is necessary to do more research to discover the effect of water that comes into contact with that soil. Will the water cause the pH of the soil to increase or decrease depending on the acidity of the water, or will it have no effect on the pH of the soil? The results will be able to help us see why certain plants grow in certain areas while others do not.

Solar Influences in the Eating Habits of Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos)

William H. Daybell, 249 Young Hall, Provo City, Utah 84604. Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

The goal of this nature experience was to determine just how the sun affects the eating habits of mallards; time at which they hunt, how many are in the group. This was done by observing the ducks at the duck pond perpendicular to upper Heritage Halls, and south of the Monte Bean Museum. Over a period of two weeks, the mallards were observed and how their eating habits changed based on the influence of the sun’s rising and setting time. The study included describing the mallards eating habits, the changes that they had to react to, their characteristics, and discovering their scientific name through the use of different bird guides.

Keywords: Mallard, eating habits, sun

Reactions and Behaviors of the European Beech (Fagus sylvatica) and European Larch (Larix deciduas) Under Physiological Stress in Provo, UT, U.S.A.

David de Amorim, 1305 N. Canyon Road Apt. 25, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: [e-mail]
Abstract The behavior and patterns of falling leaves are affected by and follow seasonal patterns throughout the year. A decrease in temperature during the fall and winter months results in water deprivation in plants; this, in turn, triggers the release of a hormone that eventually destroys the cells in the stem of the leaf, resulting in its removal from the tree. I carefully observed specimens of the European Beech (Fagus sylvatica) and European Larch (Larix deciduas) to determine if the shape and format of their leaves affect how quickly this hormone is produced. I recorded abiotic factors such as temperature and precipitation. A decrease in temperature would indicate the passage of summer to fall and fall to winter, which in turn would indicate a decrease in available sunlight and liquid water. I compared data in the form of temperature and precipitation readings throughout the testing period and the general leaf abundance in both trees to determine which tree possessed most leaves at the end the of two months. I observed that the European Beech tree lost far more leaves than did the European Larch, indicating that the European Larch is more resisentent to winter related stresses.
Keywords: Abscisic acid, temperature, European Beech, European Larch, stress, leaves.

The effects of nitrogen on the birth rate of aquatic microorganisms
G. Austin De La Mare, 3209 Helaman Halls Building 9, Provo, Utah 84604. [e-mail]
Abstract:

The purpose of this experiment was to discover whether or not varying levels of nitrogen had any affect on the birthing rate of microorganisms, specifically bacteria and protozoa. Seeing as how such microbes are capable of carrying pathogens harmful to the human body, this project was designed to see if environments containing higher concentrations of nitrogen are more prone to carrying microorganisms. Before experimentation began, two different hypotheses were formulated and acted as the driving force for the project: 1) by adding more nitrogen to a sample, more bacteria or protozoa would be produced. 2) Samples containing higher levels of nitrogen would have greater quantities of microbes than those containing lower levels of nitrogen. Analysis of the results derived from experimentation showed that there was a significant increase of microbes in the samples containing larger quantities of nitrogen. This data satisfied the hypotheses posed and evidenced that higher levels of nitrogen assist in hastening the duplication process of microbes.

Key Words: Nitrogen, prokaryotic birth rate, microbial development, protozoa, bacteria

Comparing horizontal growth rates of tree boles in different directions for various trees near Vivian Park, Provo, UT.

Brandon T. Decker, 620 N 100 W #1, Provo, UT 84601 Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

It is known that a tree’s growth is affected by its surroundings. This study focuses on whether or not a tree’s bole growth (horizontal growth) favors certain directions over others, assuming some sort of correlation between directional bole growth and the surrounding conditions. I measured six different tree trunks in eight directions (the cardinal and intercardinal directions) and compared to see if the samples showed a trend to favor a certain direction. A statistical analysis showed a significant difference between north and south growth, with the trees favoring growth on the north side. Since the trees showed a general trend toward one direction, it suggests that there are some external factors that contribute to uneven bole growth. Further studies will be necessary to establish what those factors are.

Key words: bole, growth rates, dendroclimatology, direction, tree diameter

Effects of seasonal changes on the diversity of insects at the Provo River in Provo, UT, U.S.A

Meghan R. Derby, 2117 Hinckley Halls, Provo, UT 84604 Email: [e-mail]

Key Words: insects, temperature, pitfall trap, biodiversity, seasonality

Abstract

The level of biodiversity of insects is affected by temperature caused by seasonal changes. In order to learn how this affected, experiments will be conducted at the section of the Provo River located behind the Macey’s Grocery Store at 1400 North State Street Provo, UT. Pitfall traps will be used to determine the level of insect biodiversity as compared to average temperature. Multiple pitfall traps will be set up to give a more accurate picture of the insect levels in the area. Numerical data, as well as qualitative observations, will be recorded. The quantitative information will then be graphed and compared to the average temperature in Provo, Utah during the weeks the experiment occurred to determine the relationship thereof. Results from professional research experiments on similar topics will be used to discuss the validity of my findings and determine the consequences of such research.

Are Slugs Naked Snails?

Courtney Donaldson, 1340 N. Freedom Blvd.(Apartment #131), Provo, Utah 84604. Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

What is the difference between a slug and a snail? Now days an interesting question such as this can be answered in two minutes by means of Google. But where is the fun in that? Proper research and further experimental observation have been conducted to answer this very question. Are slugs merely naked snails? There seems to be no extreme difference in physical appearance or behavior, besides snails having shells of course. These magnificent creatures are kind enough to leave a silver trail of mucus behind them after their rendezvous in the rain. So finding means to observe them should not be too difficult. No creature was harmed during the experiments. A slug was saved actually, from a terrorizing child with a useful salt shaker in hand. Observations were limited due to weather and location. Three different locations were observed on 12 different occasions, all being rainy, moist days, which are optimal conditions for slugs and snails to surface out of their moist, hidden quarters. A total of 36 gastropods were involved in the observations.

Keywords: Shell, Habitat, Development, Mollusca, Gastropod, Trails, Mucus, Life Cycle

Adverse Temperature Effects on Selaginellaceae Selaginell Seauv in Provo River Canyon

Harrison L. Douglass.

846 N. 380 W. Provo, UT 84604

[e-mail]

Abstract

Selaginellaceae is an ancient group of ferns. The family is comprised of some 750 species and is found mostly in tropical rain forests. It is also found in mountainous, high elevation regions, where the present observations will take place. The report seeks to prove a hypothesis that a decrease in temperature will adversely affect growth of selaginellaceae selaginell beauv. With decreasing temperatures, the author predicts a decrease in dimensional size. Nine samples of selaginellaceae selaginell beauv are monitored during a predicted time of temperature decrease. The sample’s dimensional size is correlated with temperature to determine if the hypothesis is correct. The report, you will find, is inconclusive in proving the hypotheses correct. Reasons are given for the possible source of the experiment’s inability to prove the hypothesis, and a new hypothesis is given.

Keywords: selaginellaceae selaginell beauv, fern, dimensional size, temperature

Influence of water temperature on green algae (Pediastrum boryanum) growing in Lehi hot springs.
Nathan W. Erickson, 1120 Budge Hall, Provo, Utah 84606. Email: [e-mail]
Abstract

Pediastrum boryanum, one type of the algae growing in these Lehi hot pots, belongs to a family of algae called green algae and it comes in many different shapes and sizes. This type of green algae, like most, is dependent on many different factors for its growth: temperature, sunlight, and nutrients to name the most important. Pediastrum boryanum continues to grow year round in these hot pots without much variation because of the constant source of heat that is provided. I measured to see what the impact of water temperature had on the of algae. Algae abundance was surveyed using measurements of the weight of diatoms in specific areas. I measured the temperature of the water at three separate parts of the spring each different by 5 degrees: 105 degrees F, 100 degrees F and 95 degrees F. Due to difficulty of accessing other parts of the spring further away I wasn't able to find anywhere lower than 95 degrees. Near the origin the hot spring floor was covered with algae. As I moved towards the edges and entered the 100 degree F water the situation was completely different, it seemed you could see much more of the actual spring bottom than algae, the amount had decreased by nearly 93%. And as I walked even further on and into the 95 degree F water it appeared as though there was not much algae at all, the water was quite clear, the algae growth had approximately decreased another 80%. The difference was more extreme than I thought it would be and this data implies that water temperature has a very direct and significant impact on green algae growth.
Keywords: hot springs; green algae; temperature; Pediastrum boryanum; algae abundance; diatoms.

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal presence in plants of the Provo River in relation to soils

Israel Esparza, 1245 Riverside Ave. Apt. 46, Provo, Utah 84604. Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

The diversity of plants plays an important role in the ecosystem. All plants need nutrients, water and minerals from the soil to keep themselve beautiful, green and alive. While the absorption of those nutrients is met, plants are aided in the process. Symbiosis is important in the process of the growth of the plants, in this case a type of fungi (Arbuscular mycorrhiza) comes into play. In this mutualism, Mycorrhiza gets attached to the roots of the plant which will increase the effectiveness of the absorption of nutrients. Nearby Provo river plants of the same specie (Solanum Dulcamara) were located. Dulcamara roots were dug up and analyzed to determine if mycorrhizal was present in greater quantities in relation to moisture in the soils where they grow. The results showed that no much difference was found, regardless of the soil moisture.

Key words: Arbuscular Mycorrhizal, fungi, plants, diversity, soil nutrients, absorption, moisture.

Active versus Passive Transport in Taraxacum, Ilex and the Berberis Plant

Cindy Evans, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602

Email: [e-mail]

Abstract: Plants absorb water and nutrients through their roots using two methods, which are active absorption and passive absorption. Passive absorption happens through osmosis or, in other words, the water going from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. The other method, which is active absorption, requires energy from the plant using ATP to transport water which carries these nutrients (Peel). Plants have different amounts of active versus passive transport, and in this paper I plan to discuss my findings on comparing three plants, which are the taraxacum (dandelion) the ilex (holly) and the berberis, and the possibilities for their varying amounts of active transport.

Keywords: Active transport, passive transport, taraxacum, ilex, berberis

The Affect a Change in Altitude will have on the Growth Rate of Kentucky Blue Grass (Poa Pratensis)

Nicole Evensen, 495 North 500 East, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: [e-mail]
Abstract

The purpose of this study is to find the affect that altitude has on the rate growth of Poa Pratensis, better known as Kentucky Blue Grass. The hope is to give the public an idea of how often their lawn will need to be mowed based upon where they live. The hypothesis is that the closer to sea level the grass is planted, the faster it will grow. This hypothesis has been tested over the last two months. Small amounts of Kentucky Blue Grass were planted and flagged at different altitudes around Utah. Measurements of the grass were taken and recorded periodically. The results found were analyzed and will be discussed in the following paragraphs. The hypothesis of the affect of altitude was supported in the results of the experiment, but not clearly. There were other outside factors that came to light in the experiment that were also analyzed and will be discussed further.

Key Words: Kentucky Blue Grass, Poa Pratensis, Utah, Altitude, Growth

An analysis of the color changes that occur after Platanus occidentalis sheds its bark and what it means

Diana A. Ewell, 1912 Gates Hall Provo, Utah 84604. Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

I studied nine Platanus occidentals, three different specimens in three different locations. This study is to determine the correlation between the changing color and photosynthesis capabilities of the American Sycamore. Over seven days, I took pictures of each tree with some attempt at consistency during time of day to allot for lighting conditions. A careful record of the weather should be taken to show a pattern in the coloration differences of multiple starting patches on the tree. The use of the photo imaging program “image j” was used to analyze the photos and determine numerical data. From that, data graphs and charts were made to discover a recognizable pattern. It was found that the progression of color always followed green > yellow> brown. The color green showing the newest and photosynthetic portions and brown being the portion of the tree in a resting state. Based on my observations I determined in fall weather, varying in temperatures of -1.11 – 15.55 degrees Celsius, the photosynthetic rate of an American Sycamore is about 6 days.

Keywords: American Sycamore, soil regeneration, tree, shedding bark, regeneration