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Lab 12: Forest Eco
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are the 3 factors mentioned that affect the ecology of an area? What type of instruments are used to gather these measurements? | Light intensity (measured using a light meter), soil pH (measured using a pH probe), and temperature (measured using a temperature probe) |
| What is one way that ecologists measure the distribution of organisms in different places? | Pitfall traps are placed in the ground and left for several days. This is how ecologists sample and collect ground based creatures (beetles, bugs, and ants) |
| How does the soil moisture differ between these two forest types (deciduous and conifer)? How would this influence soil temp? | The soil moisture is higher in the deciduous forest compared to the conifer forest. This influences the soil temp because higher soil moisture leads to cooler temps due to water absorbing heat and slows temp fluctuations. |
| Which forest has a more acidic soil? What would explain the difference? | The deciduous forest has a higher pH according to the tests that were run. The difference in acidity is mainly due to the type of litter and how fast it decomposes. |
| Mull humus soil? How does this relate to organic matter, moisture and pH? | Mull humus forms in soil with high biological activity, where organic matter decomposes quickly and mixes well into mineral soil; it is usually found in moderately moist environments and tends to have a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. |
| What is the function of Nitrogen (N) in relation to tree growth and forest health overall? | Essential for leaf and soot growth Necessary for proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acids Influences canopy density and the forest’s ability to perform photosynthesis Promotes lush, green foliage |
| What is the function of Phosphorus (P) in relation to tree growth and forest health overall? | Critical for root growth, ATP, and cell division Supports development of flowers, seeds, and fruit Essential for forest regeneration Promotes resilience by improving nutrient and water uptake through stronger roots |
| What is the function of Potassium (K) in relation to tree growth and forest health overall? | Regulates water movement Strengthens cell walls Enhances stress tolerance More resilient Overall long-term stability |
| Mor humus soil? How does this relate to organic matter, moisture and pH? | Mor humus forms where decomposition is slow due to low biological activity, leading to a thick, undecomposed organic layer; it occurs in cool, moist or waterlogged environments with very acidic pH. |