User:Kara David/Notebook/Biology 210 at AU

1/28/15 Identifying Algae and Protists

The purpose of this lab was to learn how to identify different types of algae and protists and to learn how to use a dichotomous key to identify the different types, observe the Hay Infusion Cultures from last week and prepare serial dilutions for lab next week.

The materials used for this lab were a microscope, dichotomous key and different samples of different algae and protists. The methods used for this lab were viewing the organisms under the microscope and identifying them using a dichotomous key and taking two different samples from the Hay Infusion Cultures from the top of the jar and the bottom of the jar and making wet mounts which were then labeled. Then, the samples were both examined to see if there were any living organisms.

Data and Observations The algae identified was colpidium. It was oval in shape and measured to be 57 micrometers. The organisms identified in the transect sample were a Peranema which measured to be 20 micrometers and is a motile protozoa, an Amoeba proteus which measured to be 1200 micrometers and a Paramecium bursaria which measured to me 50 micrometers which were all found at the bottom of the sample. Only one organism could be found at the top of the transect sample and it was identified as a Spirostomum which is a type of protist and measured to be 2 mm.

It can be concluded that it was easier for life to grow at the bottom of the jar.

KD

1/26/15 Introduction and Biological Life at AU

The purpose of this lab was to learn more about the different biotic and abiotic components in different transects around the American University campus.

The materials used for this lab were a microscope, a jar used for storing the different abiotic and biotic components found at whichever transect each group was assigned to and water to mix with the components. The methods used for this lab were simply use of a microscope and collecting samples from the specific transect. After the sample was collected 10 grams of it was put into a jar along with 500 mL water and 0.1 gm of dried milk. The jar was then labeled and the contents had to be mixed together. After the sample, water and dried milk were mixed the jar was left to sit without the top on.

Data and Observations The abiotic components found in transect three were rat traps, snow, cement, lampposts and trashcans. The biotic components found in transect three were leaves, trees, plants, bushes, and different insects and animals like squirrels and birds.

It can be concluded that more life will grow from the sample taken at the transect and that over time the life at the actual transect will change due to climate changes. Once the weather gets warmer there will most likely be more biotic components seen at the transect.

KD

1/18/15

This is my first entry on Open WetWare.

KD