A Study of the Ecosystem of Tung Lung Chau
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Floral Distribution of Tung Lung Island
Microclimate Study of Tung Lung Island
Dodder of Tung Lung Island
Woodland Spider of Tung Lung Island
Soil Analysis of Tung Lung Island
As a part of the whole study.
A microclimate is a local zone wherein the climate differs from the surrounding area.
The climate of the small area resulting from modification of the general climate by
local differences in elevation or exposure, such as a woodland, lake.
Significant differences can exist between the climates of two neighbouring areas – for
example, a woodland cooler, darker, and less windy than an area of open land.
Microclimates play a significant role in agriculture and horticulture, as different crops
require different growing conditions. To Create a particular microclimate by setting
up a Green House / Farm House for plants (and animals).
Discussion
1. The Data
A. The difference in physical (climatic) factors taken in exposed habitat and
under canopy in general.
(1) High vs low
B. The patterns of fluctuation of factors studied in general.
(1) Time lag – under canopy with some delay, buffering effect
(2) Magnitude – under canopy less
C. Light – filter out by the canopy, no vegetation on the floor, plenty of litter,
productivity is higher
D. Temperature – under canopy giving a better shelter to animals
E. RH – not as expected, may be caused by sampling error
F. Evaporation Rate – No data obtained, may be limited by insufficient time
2. The Horsetail Tree
A.
3. The Experimental Errors and limitation of the studies
A. Inadequate equipment
B. Insufficient time
4. The Improvement and further investigation
A. Repeat the investigation during a camping that allows the taking of readings
continuously for several days.
B. Setting up more investigation points to eliminate sampling errors.
Conclusion
Plants adapted to specific physical environment may survive and become dominant in
the area.
The existence of particular vegetation creates a microclimate with climatic factors
different from the surrounding area.
The modified climatic factors, e.g. less temperature fluctuation, create a better
environment for animal.
Reference:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microclimate