User:Maeve Alterio/Notebook/Biology 210 at AU

2/6/14, lab 1

Good job!! Some notes:

-Make sure you include pics from lab 1 and lab 2 by Sunday

-Try pressing "enter" two times to insert a break between paragraphs and lists.

-Start working on building a map of your transect to detail your land and where your samples are taken from. We will talk about this more Wednesday

Great work!

AP

January 31, 2014 Biological Life at AU Introduction The purpose of this study was to identify different types of algae as well as observe our transect which we would be studying. In order to become comfortable with identifying organisms under a microscope, we observed Chlamydomonas, Gonium, and Volvox. We then observed our transect and collected samples that we would later test. Process First, we observed three different types of green algae, Chlamydomonas, Gonium," and "Volvox. After gathering the data on all three members of the Volvocine line, we left the lab and went to collect data as well as samples from our transect. Finally after collecting data, we set up our hay infusion cultures. Data Characteristics Chlamydomonas Gonium Volvox Number of Cells 18 10 4 Colony size 7.5 μm 17.5 μm 200 μm Describe any functional specializations of cells flagella Moved quickly Flagella, pilli Describe any reproductive specialization isogamy isogamy oogamy

cell specialization occurs mostly in multicellular organisms as they are able to carry out different tasks without compromising the vitality of the organism itself. The three genera have specialized their abilities to their environment. Evolution does not always move towards and increased complexity, in the case of the algae, it is which organisms and which traits are most suited to their environment and therefore have a better chance of passing their traits on to the next generation. Part 2: Transect 5 Biotic components: -holly tree -dead sycamore tree -pine trees -leaves -ivy -grass

Abiotic components: - soil - air -light -minerals -rocks

Transect: Transect five was off campus located at the nearby seminary. The transect was located on a downward slope with a building off to the left, a statue behind it, and a communal area in front. The transect had three trees, a holly tree, a pine tree and a dead sycamore tree. The ground had a thick covering of ivy as well as decomposing leaves and pine needles. Just to the left of the dead sycamore tree was a fallen branch.

Conclusion Although the three types of green algae we looked at were different, there was a surprising amount of variation in the size, shape and function of each type of algae. Each species had a different size, motility, and different characteristics. Looking at the different types of algae will come in handy when analyzing the different organisms collected in the transect.

January 22, 2014 Successfully entered my first post. Maeve Alterio