Student Examples
Nature Experience Abstracts
Fall Semester 2010
A comparative evaluation of tree species in different
geographical elevations in Provo, Utah
Lucas Fraga de Amorim, 1305 N Canyon RD APT25 Provo, UT 84604, amorimluc@gmail.com
Abstract. Trees
are all around us. Their variety is both beautiful and extensive. Much like
certain species of animals prefer certain biomes, different species of trees abound in different
areas depending on a variety of variables. The purpose of this study is to examine how different
altitudinal elevations affect the species of trees. Data was collected on the species of trees found
on the base and up a certain extent of the Uinta Mountains. The findings were mostly as
hypothesized: coniferous species abound in higher elevations while deciduous trees are much
more common at lower altitudes. Conclusions are reached at the end of the paper as to why such
segregation occurs.
Keywords: elevation, trees, coniferous, deciduous, species
The Effect of Various Weather Conditions on the Activity Levels of Mule Deer
(Odocoileus hemionus) in Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Brianna Andersen, Undergraduate Student, Brigham Young University, 910 N 900 E
#213, Provo, Utah 84604, Email: allamericanannie@yahoo.com
Abstract
The behavior of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) is affected by different
weather conditions. Their various behaviors, such as sleeping, eating, staying under
cover, or wandering through open fields can differ depending on the time of year
(Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter), temperature, barometric pressure, precipitation, wind
levels, strength of a storm, etc. Experiments were conducted in an orchard and field
area in Provo, Utah, during the fall season with local mule deer to show that their
behavior changes according to the weather. My hypothesis was that the mule deer
would be less active when the temperatures were extremely low or extremely high, and
that they would be more active when the temperature was at an average of the two
extremes. I also hypothesized that the mule deer would be more active during times of
precipitation than they would be during dry times. The mule deer were observed a total
of eight times over a three week period. It was found that the deer were most active
during Fahrenheit temperatures in the 70’s and the 30’s, and less active during
temperatures from 40’s to the 60’s. They were also more active during periods of rain
than they were in the snow.
Keywords: deer, mule deer, Odocoileus hemionus, weather, hunting, North American
deer, migration of deer, activity patterns of deer
Influence of color in the choice of feeder by resident birds in Elk Ridge, Utah, USA
(40N 1’ 9” 111W 41’ 17”)
Britney Lynda Anderson, 323 West Goosenest Drive, Elk Ridge, Utah 84651,
britneylynda@byu.net
Abstract
Little research seems to have been done regarding what color of birdfeeder birds
prefer. By determining what color of feeder is most appealing, feeders can be
manufactured that will attract birds better and promote the health and survival of avian
species. I hypothesized that of black, white, or green, birds would prefer green feeders. I
constructed identical birdfeeders from clear soda bottles, dowel, and hanging wire, then
painted three green, three white, and three black. I then put one feeder of each color in a
different location, for a total of three locations. By weighing the seed put into the
feeders and then again after the feeders had been made available to the birds, I
determined an amount of birdseed eaten. I compared these values to the feeders of each
color, and concluded that of the three colors, birds most preferred the green feeders. I
believe this was because green is the color of plants, which the birds depend on for
food.
Keywords: birdfeeders, color preference, bird feeding.
Abstract
The Paperbark Maple’s leaves change color in the fall. Chlorophyll gives leaves their
green color, but it is accompanied by other pigments. The colors of these pigments are only
visible when the process of photosynthesis shuts down because of decreasing amounts of
sunlight in the fall. Experiments were conducted with leaves from Paperbark Maple trees in
Provo to show how the colors change and how a loss of sunlight speeds up the process of
pigment loss. This was done by experimenting on leaves with and without sunlight. Parts of the
leaves were covered with foil to determine whether the color in the covered leaves would
change faster than the uncovered leaves. Results showed that the parts of leaves that were
covered did not change noticeably faster or slower than the uncovered leaves. This suggests that
although the leaf is affected by photosynthesis and sunlight loss, it works as a whole body and
not just in segments.
Keywords: Paperbark Maple, acer griseum, photosynthesis, rate of photosynthesis, leaves, leaf
function
Affect of difference in altitude on changing of leaf color in quaking aspen trees
(Populus tremuloides) at the Aspen Grove: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Mandy Anderson, 3205 Hinckley Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
puppyluv820@yahoo.com
Abstract
Leaves of quaking aspen trees change color in the fall, however the rate at which
they change could be different depending on what elevation they’re at. Observations
will be made on gatherings of aspen trees along the Aspen Grove Trail in order to
compare the rates at which the leaves change and become no longer green. Three
specific groupings of trees will be chosen and nearly each weekend, the approximate
percentage of green leaves will be estimated. My hypothesis is that the tree leaves at
higher elevations would change in color faster than those at lower elevations.
Keywords: aspen trees, altitude, leaves, fall, seasons
Environmental Influence in Tree Growth in Varying Climates and Elevations.
Andrew S. Apsley, 2089 California Ave, Apt 3, Provo, Utah 84606 Email: browncoat@hotmail.com
Abstract
The growth patterns of trees is affected by the surrounding climate and the
elevation in which they live, but more research is required before we can discern
between the adaptation of populations to elevation changes and population limitations
due to limited air and water supplies. Experiments were conducted in Roseville, CA,
Heber, UT, and Provo, UT with native tree populations to show that the type and size of
trees that grow in a certain region are limited by environmental factors. Leaf and bark
samples were collected from trees growing along year-round water sources, and longterm data was collected from weather databases to determine whether temperature,
precipitation, and elevation levels play a significant role in the determination of how
different tree species are selected.
Keywords: trees, elevation, water storage, precipitation
Observation of Aphids on Kale Plants Located in a Community
Garden, Provo, Utah U.S.A.
Rebecca A. Baird, 241 E 400 N #1 Provo Utah 84606 Email: becca.baird@gmail.com
Abstract
Aphids are known to be present on kale and many other leafy greens. Aphids’
breakdown plants and are seen by many farmers, gardeners, and nature lovers as a nuisance.
While aphids are predators to many leafy plants, they are also used by Lysiphlebus Testaceipes
wasps to as a host for the growth of their off spring. This experiment documented and observed
the amount of aphids present on Kales leafs from a local community garden on three different
occasions. The leaves were sampled to reflect three different stages of growth of the Kale plant
new, medium, and old. The amount of infected aphids and uninfected aphids was numbered
and recorded. The end of the experiment showed that all three stages of growth contained both
infected and non infected aphids (except for the new leaf on day two which lacked infected
aphids). However, those in the medium and old growth stages contained more aphids in general
and more aphids infected by the parasite or already dead due to its effects.
Key words: Kale, Aphid, Parasite, Community Garden, Lysiphlebus Testaceipes (Cresson)
Effects of the environment compared to the effects of predisposed traits on the variation of
autumnal leaf color in Eastern Cottonwoods (Populus Deltoides).
Tyler Baldridge tyler_baldridge@yahoo.com
Abstract
One of the most fascinating, yet often overlooked, occurrences in nature is the variation
in the color of tree leaves during autumn. There is speculation as to what actually causes this
variation. I propose that it is not instigated by environmental factors. Research was done in an
effort to discover whether the environment played a part, using observations of Eastern
Cottonwoods. It was discovered that, even when there were variations in temperature, location,
precipitation, and height of the trees involved, the leaves of the Cottonwoods always became
yellow. Thus, the trait that causes Cottonwood leaves to become yellow in the fall seems to be
ubiquitous across the species, rather than influenced by the environment.
Keywords:
Autumn, Populus Deltoides, Provo River, Photosynthesis
The relationship between elevation and plant diversity on Y mountain, Provo
Natalie M. Banks, Stover Hall, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, 84604, Email:
rhinemaiden@earthlink.net
Abstract:
Ecological models suggest that in most places plant species richness decreases as the
altitude of an environment increases. I wanted to know whether or not this applied to Y
Mountain in Provo, Utah. I took a stratified sample of different levels of elevation on the
mountain and by identifying the different species I analyzed the level of plant species diversity
at each point of elevation. I identified a total of sixteen species. The analysis showed that plant
species diversity decreased dramatically as the elevation of the mountain increased.
Key Words: elevation; plants; diversity; Provo; rapoports
Varieties of Sugar Beet’s Susceptibility to Powdery Mildew (Erysiphe betae) in
Nyssa, Oregon, U.S.A.
Kenzie J. Barlow, 1206 Taylor Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
kenzerz_10@hotmail.com
Abstract
Different varieties of sugar beets are more susceptible to powdery mildew
(Erysiphe betae) and the primary goal of this project was to see the difference between
varieties of sugar beets and the amount of powdery mildew that grows on the leaves.
The experiment was held in Nyssa, Oregon where different varieties of sugar beets were
grown. Each variety was sampled and recorded with results from each individual plant
sampled. Five sugar beets from each of the three varieties were analyzed. The results
consisted of the number of leaves on the plant that were and were not contaminated with
powdery mildew. I was not surprised to see that more than half the leaves contained
powdery mildew on two different varieties.
Keywords: sugar beets, powdery mildew, variety, susceptibility
Insect diversity compared to the base of a white oak tree to further away
AndrewJohn Bates, 155 East 8000 North, Provo, Utah 84604, E-mail ajb260@hotmail.com
Abstract
Insect diversity is influenced by many factors. Elevation, surroundings and climate can
affect the amount of insect richness in a certain area. The purpose of my experiment is to
determine if there is a greater insect diversity near the base of a white oak or further away. I
placed six pitfall traps in Rock Canyon Park 1.524 meters away from the trunk and 4.572 meters
away from the trunk in order to identify a variation of insects. The results of my experiment
show that the further away from the base of the tree the greater the variety of insects. The cups
further from the base of the tree contained four unique kinds of insects. The cups closer
contained only two, each trap shared three types of insects. A possible explanation for this
result is the increase of plant diversity around the traps further from the tree.
Keywords: Insect, diversity, distance, Rock Canyon Park, white oak
Comparison of water content in non-deciduous tree needles between the base and top of the
trees in Uinta National Forest: Provo, Utah, USA.
Sarah R. (Betts) Beckstead, 810 East 700 North, Provo, Utah 84606 Email:
sarahrb11@gmail.com
Abstract
Water content in the soil affects the growth of coniferous trees. It affects not only the
life of the tree, but the number and length of the needles. Needles that are longer have more
water content than needles that are shorter. Observations and experiments will be conducted
around the base of the mountains in Provo, part of Uinta National Forest, comparing the lengths
of the needles from the tops of the trees to the bottom. From the differences in length will be
inferred the water content of the needles.
Keywords: water content, needles, length.
Color’s Impact on Birds’ Food Selection in Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Brianna G. Beller, 562 N 400 E Apt. 36, Provo, Utah 84606
Email: brianna.beller@gmail.com
Abstract
The behavior of birds is affected by color, but more research is needed to show whether
or not the effects are as far-reaching as eating habits. Experiments were conducted in Provo,
Utah, to show if birds’ eating behavior would be impacted by color. Bird feeders of different
colors were set out near each other, hanging from the same kind of trees, and were observed at
the same time of day on a daily basis. Weather conditions were also recorded. The results were
analyzed to show the correlation between color and eating habits. According to the results of
this experiment, there was not a correlation between the color of birds and the color of the
feeder at which they chose to eat. This is probably because there were not any observed birds
other than those of the species Cinclus mexicanus, which all appeared to be the same grayish
brown.
Keywords: Cinclus mexicanus, American Dipper, temperature, precipitation
Analysis of different light environments on stomatal adaptation of plants
Jonathan Bjornn, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604.
Email: jonathan.bjornn@gmail.com
Abstract
Many external abiotic factors can affect the physiology and anatomy of leaves. One
measurable characteristic of leaf anatomy is stomatal density. This study analyzes the different
stomatal densities of leaves from plants in different light exposure areas. Samples were taken
from 2 sites, each differing in the amount of sun exposure they receive each day. The samples
were examined and stomatal densities were determined. The results were compared to see if a
significant difference exists between the two data sets. Through statistical analysis it was
determined that there is a significant difference, which means that different light environments
do have an effect on stomatal densities.
Keywords: Stomata; Adaptations to Light; Leaf Anatomy.
The Effect of Petroleum Spills on the Nesting Habits of Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta
caretta) in the Atlantic Ocean: Kiawah Island, South Carolina, U.S.A.
Heather M. Blake, 2207 Taylor Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: heathermblake@aol.com
Abstract
The purpose of this nature experience is to see if the nesting habits of loggerhead sea
turtles (Caretta caretta) are affected by the recent petroleum spill. I hypothesized that the oil
spill had a drastic impact on the traditional nesting habits in Kiawah Island, causing the
loggerheads to make their nests in new locations along the East coast. Since the research I
completed before going to South Carolina indicated that South Carolina’s entire coast has been
affected by the oil spill, I will do further research about unaffected habitat in which the turtles
have had the opportunity to establish normal nesting habits. Ample research about the British
Petroleum oil spill is also required to gain a more technical background and to be able to make
more accurate conclusions. After researching and learning about traditional nesting habits,
observations will be conducted on Kiawah Beach in Kiawah Island, South Carolina with local
loggerhead turtles to see what current nesting habits are like. I will then be able to compare my
research with my observations and draw a conclusion based on the data. This process will also
allow for extrapolation to other areas affected by the oil spill that contain loggerhead sea turtle
nests.
Keywords: petroleum, nesting habits, loggerhead sea turtles, extrapolation
Where Salmo trutta L.(brown trout) reside in the Middle Provo River: Provo, Utah.
Alisa Blankenagel, 283 S 1050 W Provo, UT, 84601. Email: anblankenagel@gmail.com
Abstract
An experiment was performed to see whether brown trout in the Middle Provo River
were more likely to reside in slower or faster moving waters. Using a single type of lure (Yozuri
Minnow), fish would be caught and documented for length and location. It was found that the
trout were more likely to reside in the slower waters. Out of the 10 fishes caught, 8 were from
the slower waters. The reason they stay in the slower waters is most likely due to the fact that it
helps the trout conserve energy. As it gets colder, trout feed less, and have lower metabolisms,
causing them to have less energy and are more likely to stay in the slower waters.
Keywords: brown trout, Middle Provo River, fishing, calm belt, rapid, fast moving water, slow
moving water.
Attraction to Varying Wavelengths in Moths (Lepidoptera) in Rock Canyon,
Provo, Utah, USA
Austin Bolingbroke, 1916 N. 80 W. #27, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
bio@austin.bolingbroke.com
Abstract:
It is well known that moths are attracted to light. Light comes in different
wavelengths and I tested to see which wavelength moths were more attracted to.
Experiments were conducted on local moths in Rock Canyon to see how moths
responded to different wavelengths. I set up lamps with varying wavelengths and by
using flypaper, counted the number of moths attracted to each wavelength. Ultraviolet
light attracted the greatest number of moths while red attracted the least. The data
appears to show that the shorter the wavelength the more attractive the light is to moths.
Keywords: photaxis, Lepidoptera, wavelength, ultraviolet
Melissa Boman
BIO 100
Influence of Precipitation on Armadillidium Vulgare Activity
Abstract
The population and activity levels of Armadillidium Vulgare are influenced by
moisture content. Observational studies were conducted in various locations throughout
Provo, UT to determine the correlation between precipitation levels and population of
Armadillidium Vulgare. Data gained from these observations demonstrates a moderate
correlation between higher levels of precipitation and higher populations of this species.
Regeneration of Earthworms (Lumbricus Terrestris) at Different Lengths in Provo, Utah, U.S.A
Matt Brandenburg 1222 J Hall, Provo, Utah, 84604. Email: mattbrandenburg54@gmail.com
Abstract
Worms gross a lot of people out. Although they are gross, earthworms possess many
unique attributes, one being that they can regenerate or re-grow parts of their body. I will
investigate how much of an earthworm you can cut off and still get regeneration.
Experimentation will be done in Provo Utah with local worms found in Rock Canyon by
digging them up. The worms will be collected and placed in an isolated area so they will not be
lost. Worms will be cut at different lengths and their new lengths will be measured every two
days to see how each one regenerates compared to their original length over a two week time
span.
Keywords: Annelid, Regeneration, Growth, Body Length, Healing
Habitat Preference of Earthworms (Oligochaeta) in Regards to Damp Dirt and Dry Dirt in
Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Emily E. Briggs, 3123 Hinckley Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: briggs.emily.e@gmail.com
Abstract
Earthworms (Oligochaeta) typically live in areas of moist dirt. Experiments will be
done in Bicentennial Park with its local earthworms to determine their preference in regards to
damp dirt and dry dirt. Earthworms found in the park will be put into a shoebox with a thin
strip of cardboard still left in the center of the bottom of the box. The strip of the box will be
placed in between an area of moist dirt and an area of dry dirt; habitats which I will create. The
earthworms will be placed on the strip at the beginning of each trial and recordings will be made
as to which habitat they choose/how many earthworms are in each side of the box each minute.
Time will be plotted against number of earthworms found in each habitat.
Key Words: Earthworms, Habitat, Damp Dirt, Dry Dirt, Preference
The effect of altitude on small bird activity on Y Mountain in
Provo, UT
Brodrick Brown, 2120 Building J, Provo UT, brodj92@msn.com
Abstract
The birds of Y Mountain are very prevalent, and I intended to find whether the
small varieties are more active in the higher or lower altitudes. I fashioned bird feeders,
filled them with birdfeed, and hung them in trees at different altitudes to see which
would be more heavily visited. I hypothesized that the bird feeders at the lower
altitudes would have more activity than those at the higher altitudes. However, the
experiment showed that the bird feeders at higher altitudes were more depleted in the
end. I theorized that this may be because of the stronger presence of civilization at the
lower altitudes.
Keywords: Y Mountain, altitude, small birds, birdfeed, Provo
The Correlation between California Gulls (Larus
californicus) and Temperature While Eating.
Caleb Brown, 1904 N 80 W, Provo, Utah 84604, Email: calebb10@yahoo.com
Abstract:
In a field found slightly south of 1904 N 80 W, in Provo, Utah, California Gulls
(Larus californicus) can be almost every morning gathering food from the ground. The
number of these birds varies from day to day, but I observed that the warmer it was in
the morning, the more gulls gathered as a general rule. This experiment tries to get a
correlation between the temperature at a specific time and the number of birds in the
field at the moment. To get accurate reading on the number of gulls in the field at a
given time, I used a camera with a series of pictures to capture the image of the field
and counted the birds from the picture. From the pictures, I could also see the number of
moving birds and also hope to show that the warmer it is, the more active the gulls are.
It was found that the number of birds was not a direct correlation with the temperature,
but the percentage of moving birds had a direct correlation with the temperature. I
thought the temperature was the main factor that caused the birds to leave the field, but I
found no data that proved that.
Key words: Effects of weather on gulls, eating habitat, niche of gulls, Larus californicus
Diversity in Size, Number, and Species of Insects on a River Bank
Diana Brown, Brigham Young University, 460 East 700 North APT 2, Provo, Utah
84606
dibrownie207@yahoo.com
Abstract
The diversity of insects depends upon a complex interaction of abiotic and biotic
factors in their particular habitats. Pitfall traps were used along a bank at the Provo
River to compare the variation in size, number, and species of insects at different
distances from the river. Results suggest that very small worms and beetles survive
closest to the river by being able to live underneath the soil, and that larger insects
cannot survive in such close proximity to flowing water, although the experimental
method used had flaws . This experiment reflects the immense diversity of life just
within a small area on a river bank.
Keywords: soil, vegetation, elevation, dispersal power, proximity to water
The Circumference of Trees at Different Elevations at Squaw Peak and Sundance
Garrett Burr, 1346 N 90 E Orem, Utah 84057. Email: gmburr@gmail.com
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to test the correlation between the circumference of
trees and altitude. It will be tested primarily at Squaw Peak and Sundance. Five trees
will be measured at six different altitudes, four at Squaw peak and two for the highest
altitudes at Sundance. The circumference will be measured at the lowest part of the
trunk of each tree, closest to the ground. Cloth measuring tapes will be used to find the
circumference. The average of the five trees at each altitude will be calculated, and the
results will be examined using a graph to determine the relationship between altitude
and circumference. It is expected that there will be a strong correlation between the two,
and trees will have smaller circumferences at higher altitudes. Height, age, and damage
are not included in this study.
Keywords: measuring circumference, trees, altitude, elevation, Quaking Aspen
Leaves on a deciduous tree change color due to a loss of water
content in Provo, Utah, United States
Eric D. Cecil, 1849 N 200 W Apt. 346, Provo, UT 84604. Email:
ececil2871@gmail.com
Abstract
Deciduous trees can be found all over the world. However, few experiments
have been conducted as to why the phenomenon of their leaves changing colors takes
place. I designed an experiment to see if water content was a major contributing factor
to the process of leaf senescence. The experiment was conducted by discovering the
water content of three different stages of a leaf during the process of abscission. The
water content was determined by measuring the weight of the leaves before and after
heating the leaves to 200°C for 45 seconds. I discovered that the water content was
directly related to the senescence of leaves. However, the water content is only a
portion as to why the leaves’ colors change. Other factors include outside temperature,
abscission, chlorophyll levels, and solar radiation.
Keywords: leaf pigment, auxin, annual precipitation, chlorophyll, autumn, fall,
senescence
The growth of algae in shaded and sunny locations along the Provo River.
Samantha Chandler, 1216 Taylor Hall, Provo Ut 84604. sweetsammy64@charter.net
Abstract
Algae is a plant that thrives in many bodies of water and in many wet damp climates.
Although algae grows almost everywhere in any body of water this experiment was conducted
in the Provo river at the location of Lat:40:14’12N long:111-44’19(Google Maps) . The object
of this experiment is to find out in what amount of sun light algae thrives the best. Algae
growth was tested over a period of 10 weeks from September 5th, 2010 to November 7th,
2010. Three different amounts of sun light were tested. The first group had 8 hours of sunlight,
the second group had four hours of sunlight and the third group had zero hours of sun light.
Each group had seven tiles upon which the algae was grown. All tiles were placed at the same
depth of water a meter from the shore line of the river. The algae was grown on porcelain tiles
that were placed in the Provo River. At the conclusion of this project I found that the tiles with
eight hours of sun light grew was the most successful in growing algae. The seven tiles that
were placed in 4 hours of sun light grew less than the eight hour tiles, while the seven tiles with
no direct sun light grew the least. Over all it was concluded that the tiles with eight hours grew
the most algae because sun light is crucial for photosynthesis.
Keywords: algae, Provo River, sunlight, aquatic habitat, plant growth
The effect of isolation on the chirping of a field cricket (Gryllus velitis)
A. James Christensen. 280 E 500 N #9b, Provo, UT 84602. Email: ajamesc111@gmail.com
Abstract
Field crickets (Acheta domesticus) create a very connected community through the use
of chirping. In the evening, a cricket’s most active time of day, crickets will chirp in unison as
part of this communal networking. For this experiment I separated the males of a community of
crickets from the females, and then from each other to determine how their chirping behaviors
are related to their relationship to their surrounding community of crickets. To do this
experiment I obtained nine crickets from a cricket farm then left them together as a group for
one day and observed that they chirped frequently and loudly while together. I then pulled four
of the five males from the community one at a time and isolated them from one another for two
days and observed that those crickets left in isolation didn’t chirp a single time. The male
cricket that I left with the females continued to chirp in the absence of the other males, but the
regularity and volume of the chirping decreased substantially.
Key Words: community, communication, isolation, density, behavior, correlation.
Plant diversity due to elevation in areas such as Utah Lake
and Rock Canyon
Leah Clayton, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo Utah, 84602 Email:
leahclayton90@gmail.com
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: zakcorbridge@gmail.com)
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: ecowley3@gmail.com
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:
ephillipcox@gmail.com
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: leecy_3@hotmail.com
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:
drummerscuzner@yahoo.com
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 8th
through November 11th) 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: whitney_davis55@hotmail.com
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: b4wheels@hotmail.com
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: will.daybell@gmail.com
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:
amorim.dave@gmail.com
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.
Dlm4sports@gmail.com
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: brandondecker@gmail.com
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: meghanderby@yahoo.com
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:
cdonaldson18@aol.com
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
sshelmdouglass@gmail.com
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:
nathanwayneerickon@gmail.com
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:
isra_eh@hotmail.com
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: cindyevans1@gmail.com
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: nevensen@byu.net
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: dianaewell@gmail.com
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
Nocturnal insect activity at Wymount Terrace Deer Trail
Jason Ewell, 609 Wymount Terrace, Provo, UT 84604. Email: ewell.jason@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Throughout my biology 100 class I have learned that there is so much diversity in the
world (Nelson, biology 100). The numbers of diverse species that I learn about are incredible
because I really do not see a fraction of these numbers. Is it that I am asleep when life on earth
is just awakening? This nature experiment strives to find out when all these suspected species
are active, specifically insects. My hypothesis is that nocturnal insect activity is higher than
diurnal activity at Wymount Terrace Deer Trail. I will collect my data by using insect ground
traps near the Wymount Terrace Deer Trail. Seven days of data were collected to determine
when these insects were most active. Unfortunately, my research was negative. I could not tell
by the data that I collected whether nocturnal activity was greater than diurnal activity. Come to
find out, after further research was done, there are so many variables that determine when
insects are active that further experimentation is needed to answer my question.
KEYWORDS: Nocturnal, Diurnal, Crepuscular, senses, dormancy, life cycle, biological clock.
Effect of Wavelengths on Photosynthesis of Plants (Dracaena deremensis and Hedera
helix): Provo, Utah USA
Jennifer J. Farrell, 2111 Stover Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
jenfarrell@sbcglobal.net
Abstract
Different wavelengths of visible light affect the photosynthesis of plants thus
affecting their growth rate, but more research is required before we can determine which
wavelength of light is the best for plant growth. Experiments will be conducted in a
controlled environment so that varying wavelengths is the only variable. The plants
(Dracaena deremensis and Hedera helix) will be observed on a daily basis and changes
in appearance and height will be recorded with respect to time that has passed and
species of plant.
Keywords: visible light, plant growth, wavelength
Blinding the Fish: The effects of natural found water on the Electric Organ
Discharge of the Gnathonemus petersii.
Keenan E. Fessler, 784 W. 100 N. Provo, Utah, 84601. Fessler.Keenan @gmail.com
Abstract
I gathered and tested water samples of different natural types and sources from
around the Utah and Heber valleys. These samples were then tested for environmental
dangers to insure the safety of the Gnathonemus petersii. The Gnathonemus petersii
was then placed in each water sample and the electric organ discharge recorded, along
with the water’s acidity/alkalinity, carbonate hardness, general hardness, and the levels
of ammonia and ammonium cation. The results showed small changes in voltage in all
but one case. One sample created a voltage 10 times larger than any of the others. After
review of the gathered information I concluded that the chemical composition of the
water doesn’t affect the generation process of the electric field of the Gnathonemus
petersii but after comparison of the different tested levels I observed that as total
hardness increased so did the voltage readings of the electric organ discharge. I then
conclude that the recorded exponential growth in voltage is in response to the change of
calcium and magnesium cations.
Keywords: Gnathonemus petersii, Elephantnose fish, Mormyrid, electric organ
discharge, water conductivity, bioelectricity, ion, general hardness, carbonate hardness.
Reasons to the Diversity of Leaves Amongst Trees
Anne S. Fiala, 3218 David John Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: annefiala@gmail.com
Abstract
In this study observations were made dealing with the diversity of the shapes and sizes
of the different leaves within the Provo area. Samples and pictures were taken as well as
observations recorded in order to see all the possibilities. Environmental factors were
considered as well as comparisons from tree to tree. It was observed that reasons for the
differences in size and shape are due to the necessity of access to the sun’s light for
photosynthesis as well as protection and survival for the tree.
Keywords: Leaves, diversity, photosynthesis, natural selection, observations
Abstract
According to many current biological studies, algae growth tends to increase as
water temperature increases. Studies examining algae growth were conducted at Provo
River, Utah, in an effort to test this theory. Experiments were conducted at four
different locations along Provo River during three separate trials. Water temperature
was measured using a digital thermometer while algae growth was calculated by
weighing the volume of algae present at each site. Findings suggest that an increase in
temperature also causes an increase in algae growth at Provo River. These findings may
also present evidence for a global warming trend. The collected data also suggests a
relationship may exist between current speed and algae growth, presenting the need for
future studies.
Key words: Chlorophyta, freshwater biomes, global warming, Provo River, scientific
uncertainty
Presence of Algae as Determined by Water Velocity
Jared D. Fisher Department of Statistics, TMCB 307, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
84602.
Email: jared.dale.fisher@gmail.com
Abstract
To disprove the common, even stereotypical idea that algae only grow in standing water, I
attempted to find the threshold water velocity that limits algae growth, that is to say, the
maximum water velocity that algae grow freely in. To add to standing literature, measurements
were taken along the Provo River and Utah Lake, to confirm the prior scientific reasoning that
algae can thrive in water with current. The data was inconclusive about the exact threshold, but
did show that algae grow prosperously in water velocities of more than 0.016 meters per second.
Keywords: algae, water velocity, Provo River, Utah Lake.
Influence the Hobble Creek River has on plant diversity:
Springville, Utah, U.S.A.
Morgan Fitzgerald, Horne Hall #59, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: da.morgster@gmail.com
Abstract
I was curious as to whether there is more plant diversity along the bank of the Hobble
Creek River in the upper (in the mountains) or lower areas (in the valley) of the river.
Therefore, I created a hypothesis that there is more plant diversity up river rather than down
river. This is because the mountains have a more natural habitat than the valley does. After
forming a hypothesis, an experiment then took place in three different places along the Hobble
Creek River. Roping off an area that was 10’ x 10’ in a circular shape, located along the river’s
edge, each number of plant species was counted and identified if possible to find the difference
in diversity between the three areas. By looking at the data, it was clear that in the middle area
along the Hobble Creek River, there was the most plant diversity. The second most plant
diverse area was in the mountains, and least diverse was in the valley. There were also some
similarities among the upper and middle river areas. After determining these results, we can
conclude that my hypothesis was not completely correct. The most plant diversity was actually
located in the middle region of the river rather than in the upper part of the river. There are
many factors that could contribute to these results, such as sunlight, and a larger variety of seeds
delivered in that area by the river, which is more unlikely down or up river.
Keywords: Plant diversity, Hobble Creek River, similarities, habitat.
The Effects of Water and Light on Pisium sativium Germination
Mara Azucena Flores, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, 847 East 560 North,
Provo, UT 84606. Email: azucena2210@hotmail.com
Abstract
The growth of a plant depends on water, soil, light and weather conditions. But water
and light are the main components for a plant to grow properly. The purpose of this
study is to discover how the use, or lack, of water and light affected the growth and
maturation of pea plants.
These findings will give a foundation for this experiment to better understand the
variables of growth in the experiment. It is the objective to become more familiar with
and know the response and growth of plants due to variations in light and water. This in
turn helps to understand not only the best combination of these variables to stimulate
plant growth, but also the affects of not using the variables properly. The hypothesis for
this experiments are: 1. - The best association of variables at the end of the experiment
will demonstrate that the combination of water and light in the right amounts will
produce a healthier plant, 2.- A plant in the darkness with appropriate amounts of water
will grow but it will lack proper color and production of fruit or leaves as well as
limited oxygen production, and 3.-Pea seeds will not germinate in the absence of water
regard of light presence.
The Effects of Weather and Temperature on Garden Spiders in Rock Canyon Park
Jake A. Fogle, 835 North 50 East Apt. 122, Provo, Utah 84604
Email: Jacob70991@yahoo.com
Abstract
The life cycle of most spiders lasts one year, with the male and female mating in
the early fall, after which the male dies; the female producing one or more egg sacs
containing up to several hundred eggs; the female dying; the eggs hatching in the sac;
and the spiderlings spending the winter in the sac, awaiting spring to come out and
continue the cycle (Hillyard, 2007). My study was focused on what part weather and
temperature play in the timing of that cycle. The location of the observation work was
Rock Canyon Park, due to its rural nature, coupled with its proximity to campus to
allow for frequent visits. The visits varied from early morning to late afternoon, in
order to note variations in webs and activities throughout the day.
Keywords
Argiope, Orb Weaver, Web, Cocoon, & Egg Sac.
Reaction of Polistes dominula (Wasps) to changes in Weather
Temperature and Rain and the Mystery of how Decedents of Polistes
Dominula Repopulate After Winter
Brian J. Foote, 375W 1720N Apt. 113, Provo, Utah Email: brianishere88@gmail.com
Abstract
Observations and research are presented that describe the behavioral changes of the
social wasp, Polistes dominula—an invasive European paper wasp accidently introduced into
the United States about twenty years ago (Curtis et al 2005)—in response to changes in weather
temperature and rain. I also explain how P. dominula repopulate after only the queens survive
winters (Dapporto et al 2004). Experiments support the observations and research that P.
dominula become lethargic and tranquil as the temperature decreases. Other personal
observations confirm research that during rain storms P. dominula are likely to decrease their
activity in order to stay warm and dry, and observations support the research that states the
majority of the nest population dies after the first frost, and that only fertile females overwinter
(Starks 1998).
Keywords: Paper wasp; effects of temperature and rain; overwinter; wasp activity
Diversity of Arthropods on the Trunks of Four Species of Tree (Picea pungens, Acer
grandidentatum, Quercus gambelii, and Amelanchier alnifolia) near Bridal Veil Falls,
Provo Canyon, Utah in Late Autumn
Alexander T. Fuller, 414 Wymount Terrace, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: atfuller@gmail.com
Abstract
Abundant research has been performed on the interaction and density of specific
arthropods on four common trees native to Northern Utah. These four species of trees are Blue
Spruce (Picea pungens), Canyon Maple (Acer grandidentatum), Rocky Mountain White Oak
(Quercus gambelii), and Western Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia). However, the scientific
community has yet to compare the diversity of arthropods between these four species, especially
during late autumn. To test whether the number of arthropod species is dependent on the tree
species, I collected and identified arthropod species over a 24-hour period in early November.
The Blue Spruce had the most diversity of species with a total of 14 species present. This may
have been caused by the shelter that the coniferous Blue Spruce provides in late autumn. The
collected data will set a benchmark for further studies and correlation with abiotic and biotic
factors.
CLIMATE EFFECTS ON MULE DEER FEEDING PATTERNS NEAR
BUTTERFIELD CANYON, UTAH
Megan Garcia, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, 13519 S. Fragrant Ln.
Herriman, Utah, 84096 Email: luvbug_320012003@yahoo.com
There are several reasons that factor into what, where and why deer eat what they do.
These factors include the time of year, what there is available, what other options they
have. Mule deer are abundant in the mountainous areas of Utah. Having grown up in
Utah my whole life, I have become quite familiar with deer. They are known to survive
off of forbs (flowering plants) and browse (twigs and leaves). I was curious as to if and
how their feeding patterns change during the winter in the presence of snow. My
hypothesis was that, when observed, more mule deer would be found near homes in
neighborhoods near the benches of the mountains rather than at the actual base of the
mountain or in the canyon because it would simply be easier to find food near the
homes as opposed to the snow-covered mountains where everything is frozen and dead.
My collected data showed otherwise. Mule deer were seen to feed in the neighborhoods
before it snowed more than after it had snowed. After snowfall, mule deer grazed in the
canyon more than in the neighborhood. This is due to what food was available and
where and if they could find it.
Keywords: mule deer, canyon, winter, feeding patterns
Strain of Nitrogen and Phosphorus as Nutrient Pollution on Aquatic Specie
Diversity: Goldfish (Cyprindae: Carassius Auratus) as an Example of an Affected
Mobile Organism: Provo, Utah, U.S.A
Melanie A. Gardner, 1565 N University Ave, Apt. 66, Provo, Utah, 84604 Email:
m.gardner.918@gmail.com
Abstract
Nutrient pollution, particularly that of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), occurs when
human activity introduces an excess amount of these chemicals into aquatic ecosystems.
The excess chemicals may be introduced via agricultural fertilizers or sewage facility
runoff, as well as a myriad of other human activities (Simon 2010). These chemicals
promote growth of both algae and cynobacteria; the extra biomass is decomposed by
microbes and as a result normal levels of the oxygen in the system are depleted. The
lack of usual oxygen creates “dead zones” or hypoxic events where sessile organisms
die and mobile organisms leave the ecosystem (Essington 2010). Because aquatic
ecosystems are adversely strained by nutrient pollution introduced by human activities
and greater N/P amounts are detrimental to the health and diversity of a biotic
community, I studied the effects of such nutrient pollution on a smaller scale in order to
gain an understanding of its effects on individuals. Using an example of typical plant
fertilizer, I treated three groups of Goldfish (Cyprindae: Carassius Auratus) with
varying levels of nutrient pollution and observed their behavior in the affected
environment. Comparing the observed health of those three groups in an affected
environment with that of fish in a control group (in untreated water), it became apparent
that an overabundance of added nutrients had adverse effects and caused death to the
inhabitants of heavily polluted waters.
Keywords: Cyprindae: Carassius Auratus, hypoxic event, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, aquatic
diversity, aquatic biota, toxins, trophic level, eutrophication
Abstract
Hemiptera gerridae, or Water Striders, have the uncanny ability to move across
the water, and are able to travel quickly through streams and currents. What allows
them to do this is the surface tension of the water. The Water Striders (Hemiptera
gerridae) were observed after being placed in three different kinds of water samples—
tap water, carbonated water, Provo River water. Each water sample was broken down
into three categories that contained the following contaminants—dish soap, table salt
(NaCl), and vinegar. This made for a total of nine water variations (see figure 1). The
findings of the experiment indicated that when dish soap was added to any of the three
water samples the Water Striders (Hemiptera gerridae) were not able to maintain their
ability to float atop the water.
Keywords: surface tension, cohesion, aquatic insect, micro-setae, hydrophobic
Impacts of Natural Disturbances of Ant Nests Produces Repair, Not
Relocation (Formicidae)
Anneli Givens, 1214 Chipman Hall, Provo, UT 84604
Abstract. Although we all see ants almost everyday, they become insignificant
to us because of their commonality and tiny stature in the grand scheme of nature. Even
though we may not always notice individual ants, it is hard to miss the immense
structures they build that seem to crop up and reestablish soon after natural
disturbances. Though ants (Formicidae) are particularly good nest builders, it is
unknown how committed they are to remaining in their established nest after the event
of significant natural disturbance occurs. I conducted experiments on local ant nests
near trees on trails behind Provo Temple and I observed ant behavior after the simulated
natural disturbance of a branch being dropped from a tree height onto the ant nest. I
plotted the three ant nests in a field notebook and named them Nest A, Nest B, and Nest
C. The nests were then identified and according to the ants’ behavior and were easily
recognizable according to my sketch. I also made it a point to make sure the nests were
spread far enough apart that no branch that I might drop on one nest could interfere in
any way with a nest not being disturbed at the time. I found that after each ant nest was
disturbed, to a small degree or more drastically, the ants (Formicidae) did not relocate
their home to a nearby location but instead built around the object (a stick or small
branch) to re-create the nest. This result happened fairly quickly, as the ants were fast
to identify the stick that had destroyed part of their habitat and instead of relocating to
another area or using materials from their destroyed nest to rebuild in a different
location, the ants (Formicidae) shifted slightly in the direction of the nest but did not
move the site of their nest.
Keywords: colony formation, swarming, habitat, impact of colony disruption,
Formicidae building habits.
Hunting tactics of spiders in Bonneville Canyon and Provo, UT
(Arachnid: Tetragnatha montana)
Jeremy Glauser, 2183 Nevada Ave. #4, Provo, UT, Email: jeremyglauser@gmail.com
Abstract
I have conducted observations and research on the manner in which spiders (Arachnid)
hunt and feed on their prey. Due to the variety of different types of spiders I have focused my
research on Tetragnatha montana. I made my observations over the course of three weeks for
several hours. The sites I focused on include Bonneville Canyon and several spiders’ layers
along Campus Drive. I observed the movements of the spider, the size of the spider, how many
prey it had caught, what the spider did with its prey, how big the prey were, how the web was
structured, and where the spider positioned itself on the web. Ultimately, the spider spent most
of its time motionlessly waiting in the coneshaped retreat or on the web’s platform.
Tetragnatha montana hunted passively and alone. The size of the spiders was about that of a
dime and the size of the insects was that of a small gnat. The platform was made of a nonadhesive web whereas the catching zone was much stickier and nearly invisible. The spider
would not immediately attack and wrap the prey. Usually the prey had been on the web for a
long time before the spider ever reacted. This spider’s hunting tactics resemble those of many
other species, including humans.
Keywords: Arachnid, Hunting, Hunter, Feeding, Spider
The Survival of the House Sparrows America
David Godoy, 675N. 500W. Provo, Utah 684601
Email: dsbgodoy@mgial.com
Abstract
The House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a very common bird in the USA. In
every city you can find them picking in the ground, in the wires of poles and flying
around. Because there are so common not many people pay attention to them. And not
everyone knows that this bird is originally from Europe. The purpose of this study is to
understand the urban adaptation of the Passer domesticus. Why they were one of the
only birds that well adapted in America? Why there are so many of them? This
experiment will try to understand their adaptations by observing their behavior,
understanding their history, diet, breeding, etc.
Keywords: Passer domesticus, Sparrow, common birds of USA, adaptation.
Altitude Influence on the growth of Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentate) on Mount Timpanogos:
Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Kelsea N. Goodrich, 2219 Chipman Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
kelseagoodrich@yahoo.com
Abstract
The growth of Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentate) on Mount Timpanogos is affected by
altitude differences. More research is needed to discern how growth is affected by altitude
changes. By planting three species of Atremisia tridentate at the bottom of Mount Timpanogos,
and three species of Atremisia tridentate at the top of Mount Timpanogos, I was able to study
the effect of elevation change on the sagebrush. By observing and comparing the growth of both
sets of sagebrush, I saw that the experiment resulted in a lower leaf count, smaller growth, and
eventual death.
Keywords: elevation, plants
Title: The root lengths of Artemisia tridentata (Sagebrush) and Ephedra nevadensis (Nevada
Ephedra) and how they affect growth and durability in the desert of Antelope Valley, Nevada,
USA
Name and Adress: Ben Goodson 3107 Budge Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
beng5000@gmail.com
Keywords: root diameter, length, circumference, Ephedra Nevadensis, Artemsisia tridentate,
Nevada,
Absract
Sagebrush is very successful and stable in extreme conditions (Matzner and Richards
1996). This gives the plant an advantage over other plants in the area late in he season when the
soil layers with more nutrients are dry (Matzner and Richards 1996). I set up an experiment to
find out what made sagebrush so successful by digging up sagebrush and Ephedra Nevadensis
and measuring their roots to see what made the sagebrush so successful. At first I was going to
measure the water levels in the various plants, but since I had no way to make that experiment
happen, I decided to look at the roots of both plants. After my sister and I had dug up both sets
of plants the sagebrush plants had much more roots, even if they weren’t that much deeper. My
conclusion was that because the sagebrush had a more vast area with its shallow roots, it was
able to absorb nutrients and grow quickly. Both plants were durable because of their deep
taproot. Although the Ephedra plant doesn’t reside exclusively as it has spread across the
United States to as far as the Great Lakes area (Maher 1964)
Food Preferences for Ants (Hymenoptera; formicidae) in the city of Provo, Utah,
U.S.A.
Brittney J. Grandy, 51 Horne Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: bj_grandy@hotmail.com
Abstract
Ants (formicidae) are known to be food scavengers, indirect herbivores, and
predators. To support their colonies, worker ants spread out and collect food. While ants
in nature gather leaves, I have conducted experiments in order to find whether or not
human nutrients—in this case dairy and grain products—are more preferable than ants'
natural sustenance. I placed two tablespoons of these three sources of energy (each six
inches apart from another) two feet away from groups of scavenging ants in the Provo
Canyon, at the Provo Library, and at the Provo temple. I recorded the number of ants
that choose each food every thirty seconds for four minutes. The results from this
experiment have shown that ants prefer bread over both leaves and cheese, and cheese
was also more popular than leaves. Reasons as to why the insects preferred bread and
cheese may be explained by their curiosity to try the unfamiliar food choices. The bread
crumbs may have been chosen the most because of its light weight and possibly more
appealing taste and smell.
Keywords: formicidae, scavengers, indirect herbivores, predators, ant colonies
Correlation between proximity to water and the number and diversity of insects
Jordan L Gressel, 745 N 100 E Provo, UT 84606 Email: Jdan524g@aol.com
Abstract
Water is an essential element to life and insects must get water from many different
sources. I did research and observed to see if the number and diversity of insects is higher closer
to the proximity of water. The independent variable was the proximity to water. I set three
pitfall traps both at Nunns Park and Y Mountain in Provo, UT, to test the independent variable.
There were three different time periods of five days each where the pitfall traps were set. I
hypothesized there would be a greater number and variety of insects closer to water. The results
indicate that there is greater diversity closer to the proximity of water, but the number of insects
is higher farther from the proximity of water. One insect, Diptera Sciaridae, had a major effect
on the results and other factors such as weather affected the outcome as well.
Keywords: water proximity, diversity, number, pitfall traps
Jenna Gwilliam, 1209 Stover Hall, Provo, UT 84604, jennagwilliam@live.com
Study of Quercus Gambelii (Gambel Oak) and Schizachyrium Scopanum (Little Bluestem) and
their adaptability to winter between 10/21/10 and 11/18/10 in Rock Canyon, Utah, USA
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to identify and study a couple of different plants and
try to determine how they do in the winter, and which characteristics help them survive. The
study was conducted in Rock Canyon, Provo, UT, on the Schizochyrium Scoparium and
Quercus Gambelli. Their soil pH, deciduousness, root depth, and seeds were compared and
researched. It turns out that the Schizochyrium Scoparium had a more ideal pH and was better
off as not deciduous. The Quercus Gambelli had more ideal seeds. In the end, there are many
characteristics that help a plant be most adapted to the winter, and plants all have different ones.
Keywords: Quercus Gambelli, Schizachyrium Scopanum, pH, acidity, deciduous
Relation Between Precipitation and Tree-rings in Provo Canyon, Utah
Kamille D. Hacking 700 East 29 North Provo, Utah, 84602 Email:
kamilledarcy@gmail.com
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to show that precipitation has an effect on tree
growth. This study was done by going up to Provo canyon and taking samples of the
rings of trees using an increment borer. I then used dendrochronology to determine
whether the tree had grown during the years that had an increased rainfall. The results
of this experiment were very conclusive. In the years that there was more precipitation,
there was a sizable growth in the ring of the trees and therefore a sizable growth in the
trees.
Keywords: dendrochronology, precipitation, tree-ring, rainfall
The causation and amount of disparity between root to total biomass ratios among
individuals of Broom Snakeweed (Gutierreziasarothrae) in Alpine, Utah.
Bryan Hair, 2112 N 40 W #348, Provo, Utah 84604. Email: Bhair17@gmail.com
Abstract
The purpose of this experience, was to explore the dynamics of the disparity of
root proportions and their causes in Broom Snakeweed. Plants have a unique
characteristic as opposed to many other living things, in that their growth is largely
dependent on their surroundings, rather than inherently having definite proportions.
Many factors effect root growth, and because of this, many plants of the same species
often have different root to body ratios. To gain better understanding of the causes and
circumstances that create this disparity, I gathered several groups of Broom Snakeweed
from different environmental settings. They were subsequently washed and completely
dried out. The biomass of each plant as well as their roots were measured and recorded.
Through comparing the root/shoot ratio of the several groups, correlations were
observed, and root growth can be directly drawn to several environment factors such as
soil nutrients, compaction, water availability, light exposure, wind, and the presence of
other biotic organisms.
Key Words: Gutierrezia sarothrae, Broom Snakeweed, root growth, biomass, Utah,
plants
Relationship between specific plants with high levels of tannins and their relative ability to deter
herbaceous predators
Christy Hanamaikai. Biology 100 Nature Experience, Brigham Young University,
Provo, Utah, USA 84602 Email: Christy.hanamaikai@gmail.com
Abstract
A large number of plants, both gymnosperms and angiosperms, contain a
chemical called tannins. These tannins are thought to be developed by plants as a
defense mechanism against herbaceous predators. When ingested, tannins initially
cause a strong astringent or bitter taste in the mouth. Once they are in the digestive
tract, they bind to and precipitate plant proteins and inhibit digestive enzymes and
protein absorption (Cannas 2009. They can also cause severe digestive discomfort and
pain (Elvin-Lewis and Lewis 1977). The effectiveness of tannins in three plants
(Quercus gambelii: Fagaceae), (Salix nigra: Salicaceae) and (Acer grandidentatum:
Aceraceae) with documented high levels of tannins were observed and studied to
determine the effect of tannin levels on the severity of herbaceous predation. The
severity of predation was judged based on the criteria of bark damage, stripped leaves,
number of seeds present, deer feces present and a scale of bitterness. The results of the
experiment showed that there was a strong correlation between high levels of tannins
and low severity of damage from herbaceous predators, thus supporting the claims that
tannins are an effective defense mechanism for plants.
Keywords: tannins; plant defense; herbivory; Quercus; Salix; Acer; herbaceous
predation
Comparison of the rate that fruits of the Scarlet Firethorn (Cotoneaster horizontalis) and
Rockspray Cotoneaster (Pyracantha coccinea) fall from their stems
Bruce R. Hansen, 2220 May Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
sportsfreak43@hotmail.com
Abstract
Two species of berried bushes are affected differently when the seasons change
and when the overall ground temperature declines. I hypothesized that the Scarlet
Firethorn (Pyrantha coccinea) keeps its berries on its stems longer than the Rockspray
Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis) as the ground temperature around each plant is
lowered due to the changing fall to winter season. Research was required to explain
why the results ended up the way they did. Experiments were conducted near Provo
Canyon with these berried plants to determine if the arrangement of the berries on each
plant, and the overall plant characteristics, affected the rate at which the berries fell off
the plant according to ground temperature variation. These plants were identified and
then observed over the course of a month to record their berry populations. The ground
temperature near each plant was also recorded over the course of the same month. The
Scarlet Firethorn was found to retain its berries longer than the Rockspray Cotoneaster
as ground temperature declined. It can be concluded that the different arrangement of
berries on these plants determines the rate at which they fall off the plant.
Key Words: Cotoneaster horizontalis, Pyracantha coccinea, Provo Canyon, declining
temperature, temperature variation.
The effect of water current speed on epilithic and epipelic algae in the Provo River: Provo,
Utah, USA
Catherine Rose Hansen, 1720 North 724 West #111, Provo, Utah 84604, E-mail:
massagebycatherine@yahoo.com
Abstract
Freshwater biomes are one of the most productive biomes on earth with a
disproportionate amount of the earth’s diversity. Freshwater biomes provide a great deal of
different environments; as a result they can support many different types of organisms. Water
current speed is an important factor in freshwater environments that can affect the success of
freshwater organisms. To determine the affect that water current speed has on organism
success, particularly epilithic algae, I compare the types of organisms that inhabit different
areas dependant on water current speeds. I collected this data from the Provo River: Provo,
Utah USA. I measured water current in three different sites based on water current and then
collected specimens that were then classified and compared.
Keywords: Freshwater, biomes, water velocity, diatoms and rivers
Elevation Influence in Rate of Leaves Changing During the Fall in cities of Park City, Salt Lake
City, and Provo City, Utah, U.S.A.
Jennifer L. Hanson, 551 North 200 East Apt.201, Provo, UT 84604
Email:jennylingling.13@gmail.com
Abstract
The changing of leaves is affected by many possible variables such as biomes, weather,
chemical levels, etc, but more research was required to determine if the rate of leaf changing
was affected by the elevation. I conducted experiments in the areas of Park City, Salt Lake City,
and Provo City. I used each location to show the differences between leaves at various
elevations, some high in the mountains and some in the city. I chose three different elevations in
each area and collected leaves in each area, recording the colors of leaves in each region. I
measured the elevation, temperature, and weather conditions at each location as well. Through
my experiment, I found that higher elevations produced faster rates of leaves changing. I also
found a strong correlation between high elevations and low temperatures in the rate of leaves
changing.
Keywords
Elevation, Leaf Color, Temperature, Mountains, Weather Conditions
The environment’s influence on a crickets (Orthopetra: gryllidae) chirp in Provo Canyon:
Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Mark L. Harris, 25 Broadbent Hall, Provo Canyon, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
markleonharris@gmail.com
Abstract
A cricket’s (gryllidae) chirp is affected by the temperature of where the insect’s
residence lies, but more research is required before I can fully be distinguish the difference
between the chirps at warm temperature and at cold temperatures, as the cricket species adapts
to the temperature changes. The experiments that I performed took place in Provo Canyon with
crickets native to this location, where I tried to show that when the crickets’ environment
converts to colder weather the pitch of their chirp will also alter, and so will the number of
chirps in a given amount of time. I caught five crickets, looked at them, observed how they
acted, and counted how many sounds that these crickets produced in a ten second interval. Then
throughout a couple months, I examined to see what affect the weather changes had on the pitch
and frequency of their chirp. The temperature was also calculated and recorded by using the
windows gadget thermometer on my HP computer. This experiment will help me to understand
why crickets have different pitches according to the temperature, and also the change in
frequency of chirps as it gets colder.
Keywords: temperature, the sound of crickets, pitch, frequency, geography of Provo Canyon
Cooling of Weather’s Effect on Insect’s Appearance Under Rocks in Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Spencer Harris, Email: harris.spens@gmail.com, 1213w Creek Ridge Drive, South Jordan, UT,
84095, U.S.A
Abstract
The appearance of insects is affected by climate, but research was required to find what
species were least affected by climate change in the Provo, Utah area. Experiments were
conducted on a undeveloped hillside in Provo with local insects to show species variation and
species density found beneath rocks as the weather changed. At different sites rocks were lifted
and insect species underneath were identified and counted. A few days later the same site was
viewed again and species and density were again recorded. This continued until a clear
conclusion was reached. Deroceras reticulatum was the last to disappear, although the
disappearance of the other species seems to have made no significant difference on the
surrounding environment as winter took its course.
Key Words: climate, site, species, Deroceras reticulatum, environment.
The variance in insect species around different types of bodies of water: Provo River, Utah Lake, And Bridal Veil
Falls in Provo, Utah
Author: Mikaela Hart, 460 E 700 N Apartment 2 Provo, UT 84606. Email: mikxctrsbyu@me.com
Abstract:
Water bodies across the Utah valley were tested for the amount and variety of insects in the premises of the area to
see which type of body of water had the most variance in its insect population. Tests were performed at the Provo
River, Utah Lake, and Bridal Veil Falls. Pitfall traps were used as well as visual observations in the area. After a three
day test, results were gathered. Results proved that Bridal Veil Falls had the largest variety and abundance of insects
in the area of the waterfall. Discussing these results it was concluded that some of the reasons for the falls having this
variety and abundance in insects was because of a lack of predators, lack of human disturbance, and an abundance of
flora due to a steady water level.
Diversity of Plant Life Influences Insect Diversity.
Adam T. Hawker, 142 W 2170 N #414 Provo, Utah 84604, Email: generalzeldar@yahoo.com
Abstract
Certain insects in Provo, Utah choose to inhabit a certain species of plant even
though all the plants are located in an identical climate and similar altitude. This shows
that though there are arguments that altitude affects bug abundance, you can control the
type of bug with the plant types you choose to grow. Along the highway by the Provo
River there are stretches of land where Colorado pinyon pine (Pinus edulis) trees
dominate specific plots of ground. On the same plane of ground nearby there is a
separate sections of land canyon or bigtooth maple (Acer grandidentatum) and balsam
poplar (Populus balsamifera). Over the course of a couple weeks I observed the
different insect species inhabiting the plants with the use of bug traps. I made the traps
by attaching strings to an assortment of differently shaped dishes. I planted the multiple
types of traps in the different species of trees. I was able to effectively determine what
types of insect species prefer certain trees for dwelling. Many of the winged caddisfly
prefer to live in canyon maples while many of the land crawling bus were abundantly
found in balsam poplar. Pine trees proved to be unfavorable for insect dwelling.
Keywords: diversity, plant, insect, river, altitude, aquatic.
The effects of altitude on pine needle (Pseudotsuga menziesii) liquid retention capacity
in Provo, Utah, USA
Hilary N. Hayes, 3106 Taylor Halls, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
hilandmiss@hotmail.com
Abstract
Douglas-fir trees appear to be taller and greener when located in areas of higher
elevation. This could be due to the moisture within the pine needles that is received at
higher elevations. Comparing the water retention capacity of pine needles at three
different elevations is an appropriate method to test this. The branches were placed
inside a pressure bomb and the pressure at which moisture began to come out of the end
of the branch was recorded and compared with the other elevation pressures. There was
not a large average difference between the three elevations to conclude that pine needle
water retention capacity is the cause in the difference of color and height among
different elevations but it may have an important effect.
Keywords: pine needles; pressure bomb; water retention; wettability; Douglas-fir
How altitude affects number of deciduous and Coniferous trees at specific points on Y
Mountain: Provo, UT, U.S.A.
Whitney Henkel. 738 N 200 E. Apartment 2, Provo, UT 84606, Email:
whitneyhenkel@yahoo.com
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to look at the effect of altitude on the number of
deciduous and coniferous trees. The various switchbacks on Y Mountain in Provo, UT were
chosen as the sites of study. At these points, the number of each tree was counted and in
comparing the results it was seen that coniferous trees were most common at the highest altitude
with some at the base of the mountain and the number of deciduous trees began to decrease with
altitude. Many factors such as leaf and need length or weather could play a part in explaining
these observations. This experiment could also potentially lead to many other experiments
regarding trees and altitude.
Key Words: nature; trees; coniferous; deciduous; Provo; altitude.
Temperature Influence on Chlorophyll Levels in Bigtooth Maple Tree Leaves
(Magnoliopsida:Aceraceae) in Provo Canyon: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Jamie Henriksen, 3107 Hinckley Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: blondie417@cox.net
Abstract
The study was done to better understand the correlation between temperature and chlorophyll
levels in leaves (Aceracae). Several samples of leaves were selected on the base on Provo
Canyon and exposed to alcohol-based testing over the course of four weeks. Higher chlorophyll
levels were found in leaves collected at higher temperatures, which supported the hypothesis
that chlorophyll content is affected positively by warmer temperatures. As temperature
increased the chlorophyll levels were found to increase as well. With the inclusion of outside
factors such as precipitation levels, carbon dioxide concentrations, etc. a direct positive
correlation cannot be proven but the findings of this experiment suggest that temperature and
chlorophyll levels are positively correlated.
Key words: temperature, chlorophyll concentration.
Influence of Urbanization on the Health of Pine Trees in Sundance, Utah: Provo,
Utah, U.S.A.
Shannon Hensley, 954 North 900 E #2, Provo, Utah, 84604 Email:
shennsley@gmail.com
Abstract
The health of pine trees is affected by the environment which surrounds them;
however more research was required to see what, if any, effect the human population
had on their health. In this experience, the ‘human population’ was equated to air
pollutants and emissions. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the health of pine
trees at the campgrounds at Sundance, forested areas of Sundance and on the campus of
Brigham Young University over a period of six weeks. Specimens of needles were
taken from several pine trees from these three areas. Using the forest trees as a control,
the information recorded was plotted on graphs and compared over time. These
comparisons, along with careful research, lead to the conclusion that while the trees in
more urbanized area did show to be unhealthier those farther away from people, the
difference was small. Further research and experimenting could be done to take into
account other biotic factors such as water and soil pollutants.
Keywords
Bristlecone Pine, estimation, health assessments, air emissions
Influence of Habitat Types on Proportion of Plants that Follow the Fibonacci Sequence in
the Utah Valley: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Lisa Heppler, 158 Wells Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: lisa@heppler.com
Abstract
The leaf patterns found in many plants are known to follow the primary Fibonacci
sequence (Newell and Shipman 2008), but more research is necessary in order to conclude that
the Fibonacci sequence found in plants is related to habitat type. I conducted an experiment in
three different habitat types in the Utah Valley in order to study the relationship between habitat
type and a plants’ Fibonacci character. I counted the total number of species in a 4-meter by 4meter plot of land in each of the three habitat types: grassland, forest, and river. I then recorded
how many of the different species in each habitat followed the Fibonacci sequence. When I
finished collecting all of my data, I organized my data into three different proportions
correlating to each of the three habitat types, which related the number of plants that followed
the Fibonacci sequence to the total number of species found. For the forest habitat, I found that
4 out of the 9 total species of plants followed the Fibonacci sequence. For the river habitat, I
found that 8 of 16 followed, and for the grassland habitat, I found that 6 of 15 followed. I then
ran a chi-square 2-way test of significance on the three proportions and found that there is no
association between the habitat type and the proportion of plants that follow the Fibonacci
sequence. In other words, the Fibonacci sequence found in plants is not related to the plants’
habitat.
Key words: Fibonacci sequence, phyllotaxis, habitat type, test of significance
The Correlation between the Amount of Precipitation and Length of Tree
Rings (Picea pungens and Acer macrophyllum) Bountiful, Utah, U.S.A
Chad Hilyard, 3117 Budge Hall, Provo, Utah 84602 Email: chilyard4@gmail.com
Abstract
Dendrochronology which the many different lengths of a tree’s rings can
relatively tell us the amount of moisture the ecosystem, of where the tree is located,
received a certain year in comparison of the other rings. The tree samples will be
taken from North Canyon (Bountiful, Utah) to show the different ring lengths of two
different tree species in the same area. I will be gathering data from a Colorado Blue
Spruce and a Big Leaf Maple tree. The length of tree ring will be organized and
graphed against the amount of moisture received that year. I will gather the data for
the average amount of precipitation each year, for the past ten years, from
September 2000 until September 2010.
Key words: Dendrochronology, organized, average precipitation.
Influence of altitudinal and thermal factors (with respect to other significant abiotic
factors) on diverse populations of trees in Timber Lakes, Utah.
Andrew C. Himebaugh, 2117 May Hall, Provo, Utah, 84604 Email:
andyhimebaugh@comcast.net
Abstract
Principle among abiotic factors that influence the distribution of populations of trees is
altitude. Temperature has been shown to be a heavy influence as well, especially in favoring
deciduous species (Way and Oren 2010). Additionally, decreased photosynthetic rates and litter
decay, which are very influential factors on the growth of trees, are directly influenced by
temperature (Ow and Whitehead 2010; Sariyildiz and Kucuk 2008 respectively). My hypothesis
was that the sub-factor of temperature with respect to altitude is the dominant influence on the
adaptation of trees in communities where drastic change in altitude occurs with a neat contrast
of deciduous trees at lower altitudes and coniferous trees at higher altitudes. I drew a differing
conjecture from Timber Lakes in the Uintah Mountains Utah, however. Experiments were
conducted from five relatively similar locations in the area, each being approximately 152.4
meters increased in elevation from the previous site. At each site trees on a certain lot of
approximately 4046.9 m^2, I counted trees of various species were counted trees of various
species to be measured against each other. The results displayed that, while altitude pushed trees
to adapt to populate the different locations, moisture (proximity to water and observable
humidity, precipitation, etc…), and not temperature is the dominant sub factor to directing the
evolution of the plants and trees that populate the area. For example, colonized populus
tremuloides existed at all but one location and were even more dominant at the relatively higher
altitude. This ends has brought me to make a more educated postulation that because of the
more arid climate of mountains in Utah, water has become a greater determining factor in the
growth and development of tree populations. Furthermore, it has created a more unique climate
for the individuals, and the evolutionary process has adjusted in a different way than has been
defined as more typical.
Keywords: Elevation, deciduous, coniferous Aspen, Spruce, Juniper, Oak, relative temperature,
observable difference in moisture.
Growth of algae in Provo River: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Tyler Wesley Hinton, 114 Shipp Hall-Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602 Email:
bigthinton@hotmail.com
Abstract
Within this Fresh Water Experiment, growth of algae is tested according to how much
grows on certain kinds of things in different settings. Through observation of the experiment,
the growth will be recorded weekly to see sufficient results. This experiment will take place in
the Provo River on West 2230 North Street. Three sets of tiles will be placed in various areas of
the river. During my experiment of six weeks no algae was on the bathroom tiles. I think it is
because of cold weather conditions.
Key words
Algae increase, algae growth, Fresh water experiment, River algae, algae experience
Behavior of turkey vultures at different times of the day and different weather conditions
in Thousand Oaks, CA.
Jake Hobbs, 1220 Merrill Hall, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84604. Email:
jbhobbs21@gmail.com
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to see if turkey vultures had different behavior patterns at
different times of the day and in different weather conditions. Specifically, the birds were
observed in the morning from the hours of 7:00 9:00am and in the evening from 4:00 to 6:00
pm. Two hypotheses were that there would be greater numbers of the birds together in the
evening hours and there would also be more activity in the evening, for example, more circling
and flying around as opposed to roosting in nearby trees. As the results will discuss, it was
found that on most occasions the hypotheses were correct. On the majority of the days more
turkey vultures were seen in the evenings and of those birds seen in the evenings a greater
percentage of them were flying.
Key words: behavior patterns, California vultures, roosting
Acidity Levels in the Provo River, Provo, UT, U.S.A. and their Influence on Algae
Growth
Tyler J. Hubbard, 1866 N 40 W Apt. 39 Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
hubs_06@hotmail.com
Abstract
The growth of algae and what type of algae grows is influenced by the acidity of
the water that it grows in. Experiments will be conducted in the Provo River in Provo,
Utah using ten tiles each dispersed one quarter of a mile apart. Observing these I will be
able to see algal growth and what types of algae grow in certain levels of acidity in
water. Acidity levels of the water in the locations of the tiles will be observed and
recorded every other day for a period of about two weeks. Algal growth will be plotted
against pH levels.
Key words: algae, pH level, acidity
Viability of autumn leaves from Acer grandidentatum, Amelanchier utahensis, Betula
occidentalis, and Quercus gambelii found in Provo, Utah, as pigment for organic based paint
Jenny Huffman, 509 N. Belmont Place, Apt. 269, Provo, Utah 84606, email:
jenny.j.huffman@gmail.com
Abstract
As autumn approaches, Provo, Utah, is privileged to experience the change of the
season as leaves on the local trees display an array of fall colors. In the interest of
environmentally friendly paints, the question becomes whether or not these leaves can be used
as pigments for homemade paint. I conducted experiments with leaves from the Acer
grandidentatum (Big Tooth Maple), the Amelanchier utahensis (Utah Serviceberry), the Betula
occidentalis (Water Birch), and the Quercus gambelii (Gambel Oak) located along a stream on
the Alpine Loop in Provo, Utah. I collected specimens on October 2, 2010, and November 13,
2010. On November 13, I made the six-week old dried samples and the six-hour old samples
into an egg tempura paint and then tested the samples on painter’s canvas to determine the
pigment, vibrancy, texture and coverage. All the six-week old dried samples were unsuccessful
as pigment was lost, texture varied between smooth and grainy and coverage varied between
good and spotty. Of the six-hour old samples, the Utah Serviceberry and the Water Birch both
produced the same results as the six-week old samples. The six-hour old sample from the
Gambel Oak retained its color and vibrancy, had a smooth texture, but its coverage was spotty.
Finally, the six-hour old sample from the Big Tooth Maple proved to be the most viable as it
retained its pigment and vibrancy, had a smooth texture and good coverage.
Keywords: organic paint, pigment, Acer grandidentatum, Amelanchier utahensis, Betula
occidentalis, Quercus gambelii
Correlation Between Water Quality and Benthic Macro-invertebrate Diversity in the Provo River
Joshua L. Huss, 700 N. 300 E. Apt # D3, Provo, Utah 84606 Email: nosalsaintaiwan@gmail.com
Abstract
Aquatic insects have been used in many instances to measure water quality and predict
environmental impact of pollutants. In this study we wish to examine more about these insects
themselves, and how their populations differ within a common body of water. The Provo River
flows from a relatively pure natural source up Provo Canyon, but passes through several residential
and industrial areas before exiting the valley. Water pH will be measured as well as the
diversity/abundance of these aquatic insects to examine any correlations between water quality and
these populations. Explanations including outside influences will be considered where diversity
differences do not bear strong correlation to pH. We will take samples at three locations on the river
namely off of Casperville Rd, the base of the Deer Creek Dam, and in downtown Provo--just north
of Maceys.
Key Words: Macro-invertebrates, Acidity, Invasive Species, Pollution, Provo Canyon
Effect of temperature on the behavior of arthropods in Provo, Utah, USA
Hutcheson, Hanna, Undergraduate Biology Student, 1505 N. Canyon Rd. Apt. 50, Provo, UT,
USA, hhutcheson@byu.net
mailto:hhutcheson@byu.netAbstract
While observing the fluctuation of temperatures in Provo, UT, I wondered if grounddwelling arthropods were affected by colder temperatures, or if their level of activity would
remain unchanged. Data shows that as a survival mechanism, arthropods slow their metabolism
and can even enter into a ‘chill coma.’ I used the pitfall method to test the arthropods, keeping
careful record of temperature and precipitation of every day of the experiment. In general, I was
correct that the colder temperatures affected the activity of arthropods, but I was wrong in
thinking that the level of precipitation would also have an affect on the level of activity.
Keywords: arthropods, temperatures, precipitation, Utah, pitfall trap
Selective consumption of feeding among birds and specific species of birds on west trail of
Timpanogos Park: Provo canyon, Utah, U.S.A.
Jillian N. Jackson, 765 East 750 North Apt. 2, Provo, Utah 84606 Email:
jilljackson2@gmail.com
Abstract
The feeding habits of birds differ in each species due to the performance variation, size,
nutrient needs, and metabolic rate. Black oil sunflower seeds provide an adequate diet for most
wild birds due to their high quality protein. Experiments will be conducted on a trail west of
Timpanogos Park using two different birdseeds to discover if birds are attracted to a certain
seed, and more specifically, whether there is selectivity within certain species. Black oil
sunflower seeds and mixed wild birdseed will be hung from a tree to the side of the trail. Data
will be recorded to track the amount of birds that eat the different birdseed, as well as the varied
species that feed on each seed. For the last observation period, the feeders will be left in the tree,
and checked periodically to see which seed is preferred. No birds ate from feeder during the
observation period. When the bird feeders were left in the canyon for one week, data was
acquired reflecting the preference for black oil sunflower seeds by birds in Timpanogos Park.
These results reflect that birds in the canyon need seed that are higher in fat and high quality
protein for growth and performance.
Keywords: diet, protein, birds, feeding, consumption
Climate Influence on Birds: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Kathryn L. Jensen, 442 N 400 E Apt. 10, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
katielynn27@gmail.com
Abstract
This observation was done in order to see whether or not Provo becomes cold
enough to cause birds (specifically ducks) to migrate during the winter.
Observations were done at the Paul Reams Wilderness Park near the Provo River.
Temperature readings were taken and the number of birds in the pond were
recorded. These observations were done for four weeks in a row during the end of
fall and beginning of winter months. Snowfall did not begin until the last week of
observations. The number of ducks counted stayed consistent through the weeks
and did not decrease as the observations continued until the last week when no
ducks were found. Given that this experiment was not able to continue past the
first few snow falls it is not known whether or not the ducks did actually migrate
or will wait to migrate after a few more weeks of snowfall. Further observations
must be done in order to fully conclude whether these ducks will go to warmer
climates for the winter.
Key words Mallard Ducks, Migration Patterns
Thermal influence on vibrancy of sunsets in Rock Canyon: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Lindsay G. Jensen, 3115 Taylor Hall Provo, Utah 84604, Email: lindsjay1234@yahoo.com
Abstract
Sunsets and the timing of these spectacles change as the year wanes; however, as the
seasons change and temperatures drop, the question at hand is whether or not the vibrancy of the
color spectrum found in sunsets varies with temperature as well as other factors. In doing so,
one could potentially determine what colors will be most prevalent in sunsets before it occurs.
The experiment will be held in Rock Canyon. Once a week on the same day, the temperature,
time, visibility, and humidity will be recorded atop Rock Canyon and a picture will be taken to
record the vibrancy of each sunset. On a scale ranging from 1 to 3 the vibrancy will be valued
each week to differentiate between sunsets and to determine whether temperature or any other
factors have affects on the color and vibrancy of sunsets.
Keywords: Sunset, Utah Valley, Temperature, Vibrancy, Smog, Color
The effect of spruce (pinaceae: picea pungens) on surrounding soil acidity in Canyon
River Park, Provo
Sarah C. Jenson, 3205 Chipman Hall Provo Utah 84604, spiffyness42pi@gmail.com
The Colorado Blue Spruce (picea pungens) is native to western North America
at high altitudes. This study was to determine the effect of the decomposition of its shed
needles on surrounding soil acidity. Soil samples were taken at regular intervals from
the trunk of a Colorado Blue Spruce and then tested for pH using universal pH indicator
paper. The acidity of the soil did not change relative to the distance from the trunk.
Results may change by using a more sensitive way to measure pH.
Keywords: Spruce, picea pungens, soil, acidity, pH
Moth (Lepidoptera) Attraction To Various Types of Light (Fluorescent light,
Black light, and Incandescent light) in Lindon, Utah, U.S.A.
Chunie Johnson, 101 A. Richards Hall Provo, Utah 84604 U.S.A., Email:
chuniesj@gmail.com
Abstract
During the dark hours of the day, there are many insects that are attracted to
light. Most of the insects that portray positive phototaxis (phenomenon of attraction to
light) are insects with wings, like moths or flies. Negative phototaxis (phenomenon in
which light repels insects) insects include cockroaches, beetles, and earthworms. For
this experiment I observed the behavior of moths (Lepidoptera). I conducted the
experiment in an orchard located at 334 West Lakeview Road, Lindon, Utah. I used
three different types of light to attract the moths; a black light, a fluorescent light, and
an incandescent light. The experiment was conducted for four consecutive days for a
forty-five minute time period. My findings led me to the conclusion that the
incandescent light was the most effective in attracting moths followed by the
fluorescent light. I also concluded that the least effective light for attracting moths was
the black light.
Keywords
Light, moths (Lepidoptera), attraction, Utah.
Do Colors Really Matter
Kylar Jones 999 N Grove Drive, Alpine UT 84004 kylarj@gmail.com
Abstract:
When observing the changing colors of different trees I wondered which trees changed
colors and lost their leaves earlier and what environmental factors contributed to these kinds of
trends. I noticed that the trees in higher elevations were changing their colors earlier than those
at lower elevations and that they shed their leaves earlier also. I also noticed that different kinds
of trees at the same elevations were changing at different rates and wondered if there was any
explanation for this phenomenon or if it was simply a matter of location. It would seem that the
color of the leaves would depend on the type of tree and most certainly not on the location of
the tree and that it would be due to the absorption of light through the chloroplasts.
Elevation effects on plant abundance and variety in Provo, Utah
Emily M. Judd, 366 E 600 N Apt. 31, Provo, Utah, 84606 Email: emilyj19@gmail.com
Abstract
Plants can vary among different locations because of many factors including climate,
rainfall, altitude and elevation. Elevation was the factor studied in this experience to aid in
further observing and gaining knowledge on the plants and weeds that occupy Utah Valley. In
this observation, two locations were chosen with differing elevations to determine if this factor
affected the abundance and richness of plant growth in certain areas. To gain adequate results,
three 10ft squares were observed at each location. Plants were identified and quantified. The
results showed similar diversities among the plants and at both lower and higher elevations,
relative richness and abundance could be found. Further investigation and research is needed to
determine the main factors of plant growth found in Provo, Utah.
Keywords: Elevation, plant growth, abundance, richness.
Determining correlations between the age of Fraxinus americana (white ash trees) and
their circumference.
Amy E. Kankiewicz, 2081 N. 40 W. Apt. 316, Provo, Utah 84604,
amyekankiewicz@gmail.com
Abstract
In recent studies, a correlation has been found between a tree’s age and its
circumference. It is thought by many that the correlation of age to circumference is
exponential. I took this theory and tested it by using an increment borer on twelve
specimens of Fraxinus americana along the Provo River. I identified the species of tree
using pictures and samples of the leaves and bark. Using dendrochronology techniques,
I was able to find the age of each sample. After compiling the data, I found that there
was a trend among the circumference and age. When compared to each other, I found
my results did not match the previous research done. I found that my results did not
make up an exponential correlation, but a logarithmic correlation. The trend of my data
is represented by the equation y = 54.364ln(x) – 112.05, with “x” being the age of the
tree and “y” being its circumference. This conflicting result could be due to having a
limited sample group, in age, circumference, location, and wood samples per individual
tree.
Keywords: Fraxinus americana, white ash tree, circumference, correlations, age
The influence of colors on avian feeding preferences with special attention to Western ScrubJays (Aphelocoma californica) on Y Mountain, Provo, Utah, USA.
Devin C. Kimball, 2221 Helaman Halls, Building 9, Provo, Utah 84604. Email: devink@q.com
Abstract
Birds prefer certain sites over others for use as a feeding habitat, but not all the factors
are known to explain the preferences. Experiments will be conducted on Y Mountain in Provo,
Utah to observe feeding habits of local birds when offered bird feed at slightly different feeding
sites. The only difference in feeding sites will be the dominant color of the site which will
determine if birds are attracted to certain colors when they settle on a feeding site. Western
Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica) were found to be attracted by the blue feeding site, but ate
from the control pile the most. Most birds in the area avoided the feeding sites altogether.
Birds, like all animals, make specific decisions before choosing a place to eat, and colors play a
role in attracting or repulsing birds of different species. The results can be applied toward
recreational bird feeding and bird watching practices.
Keywords: Western Scrub-Jay, feeding behavior, color recognition
Proximity to Water Influence on Plant’s Water Requirements
Kassie M. Klein, 1378 North Freedom Boulevard Apt. 424, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
kassie3323@comcast.net
Abstract
Water is an important component of plant survival and health. Plants use energy to
survive. This energy is gained from the sun and through the process of photosynthesis is turned
into Oxygen. It is unclear how much water is needed or if a plant’s health is directly affected by
the amount of water a plant has available. This experiment seeks to discover if a plant’s
proximity to water reflects its water requirements. Plants found near the open water in Provo
Utah were observed and their distances compared. If a plant is close to the water’s edge, it can
be concluded that it has more water at its disposal than a plant further away from the river.
Since the plants in the wild grow naturally near the water’s edge, it can be concluded that their
proximity to the water is based on that plant’s specific water requirements. My results show
that there is a positive connection between the closeness to water and height.
Keywords: plant, proximity, height, water requirements
The commonalities and differences in Quercus gambelii,
Quercus robur 'Fastigiata', and Quercus robur leaves in Provo,
Utah.
Sadie Klein, 1960 N. Canyon Road, apt. 10, Provo, Utah 84604. Email:
sadiemk@hotmail.com
Abstract
After taking an interest in leaves and trees, the leaves of three different kinds of
oak trees were collected from Y Mountain and the BYU campus and studied, with their
height, width, and number of lobes measured in inches with a ruler and recorded.
Averages were taken and sketched, and similarities and differences were noted. It was
found that the oak leaves were similar in that they all had multiple lobes and were
asymmetrical, yet they all differed in average height, width, and number of lobes
according to the type of tree. The shapes of each leaves differed as well, and yet because
of the similarities, they can all be identified visually as oak leaves.
Keywords: Gambel oak, Columnar English Oak, English oak, lobes, measurements
Density and structural difference in Honeylocust, European White Birch, and Scotch Pine barks
to identify human usage in Kiwanis Park: Provo, Utah, USA
Deric J. Lambdin, 2121 Budge Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: d.lambdin01@gmail.com
Abstract
The structure of the bark of a tree has been known for having varying physical
characteristics. Some trees are known for having soft bark that can be chipped off easily, hard
bark that can only be pried off a tree, and also bark that peels off the tree in paper-like sheets.
Along with these characteristics, the density and composition of these bark varieties vary in
elements like structural shape and density of the material. Experiments were conducted in
Kiwanis Park with trees to find their density and compositional differences. Three tree species,
honeylocust (Gleditsia triacantho), European White Birch (Betula pendula), and Scotch Pine
(Pinus sylvestris), with the three different bark characteristics were found to have varying
densities and structures which consequently result in a variety of human uses.
Keywords: honeylocust (Gleditsia triacantho); European White Birch (Betula pendula); and
Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris); Structure; Density.
How a Plants Ecosystem Affect its
Development.
Dan Lee 1936 n 700 w Provo, Utah 84604 irondan@gmail.com
Abstract:
The goal of my nature experience was to see exactly how the ecosystem surrounding the
area of the neighboring mountains affected the development of the plants found there. The
specific geographical area that I focused on was the mountainside where the “Y” is found
representing Brigham Young University. During my observations of plant development, I
focused solely on four main factors that I saw that affected the plants on that mountain side:
erosion, mankind, wind, and precipitation. While these are four abiotic factors, I focused most
of my nature experience on how those factors affected the life of the plants I came in contact
with.
Key Words: Plant development, erosion, roots
Environmental Influences on the Vibrancy of Changing Leaves on Crack Willow Tree
(Salix fragilis) in Provo River: Provo, Utah U.S.A.
Sophie M. Lefens 855 East 700 North Provo, Utah 84606 Email: sophielefens@byu.net
Abstract
I examined environmental factors such as proximity to water, sunlight and air
temperature in order to observe the affect these factors have on the changing leaves on Salix
fragilis trees. I observed two specific Salix fragilis organisms three times a week over the course
of four weeks. One tree is further from the water and receives less sunlight while the second tree
is closer to the water and receives more sunlight. I recorded temperature and precipitation as
well as the texture, color and quantity of leaves remaining on their branches. The leaves on the
tree closest to the water and more exposed to the sun remained green and moist longer than the
tree in the shade and further from the water.
Why silver ferns are shaped the way they are?
Samantha Linton, Undergrad, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602.
Email: samantha_linton@swbell.net
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to show why there are reoccurring patterns in nature. In
this paper I will be showing different examples of patterns in nature. I will be using
different
Introduction
Ferns are a family of plants that have been biologically successful. Ferns are found
worldwide but in not so varied of environments. A fern will only grow in warm humid
environments (“about ferns”).
Methods and Materials
I searched why there were reoccurring patters in nature, than I went out and
found more examples. I found that snowflakes and trees also have fractals. Fractals are
a geometrical or physical structure having an irregular or fragmented shape at all scales
of measurement between a greatest and smallest scale such that certain mathematical or
physical properties of the structure, as the perimeter of a curve or the flow rate in a
porous medium, behave as if the dimensions of the structure (fractal dimensions) are
greater than the spatial dimensions.”
Key Words: Fractals, Patterns, Fractal Geometry
Literature Cited
"About Ferns." Ferns of the Canberra Region. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Nov. 2010.
<http://www.home.aone.net.au/~byzantium/ferns/about.html>.
Avnir, David, and Mieczyslaw Jaroniec. "An Isotherm Equation for Adsorption on Fractal
Surfaces of Heterogeneous Porous Materials." Langmuir 5.6 (1989): 1431-433. Print.
Liu, S. "The Fractal Approach to Heterogeneous Chemistry - Surfaces, Colloids,
PolymersEdited by David Avnir, Published by Wiley, New York© 1989, Pp. 441,
US$75." Journal of Non-Crystalline Solids 116.2-3 (1990): 297-98. Print.
Pfeifer, Peter, and David Avnir. "Erratum: Chemistry in Noninteger Dimensions between Two
and Three. I. Fractal Theory of Heterogeneous Surfaces [J. Chem. Phys. 79, 3558
(1983)]." The Journal of Chemical Physics 80.9 (1984): 4573. Print.
Increasing population of Lady Beetles and the effect of infestation in seasonal
allergies
(Insecta: Coleoptera: Coccinellidae: Harmonia: H. axyridis).
Brooke Locko, 1340 N Freedom Blvd Apt. 343, Provo, UT 84604 Email:
blocko26@gmail.com
Abstract
H. axyridis have been imported from Asia for use in agriculture to control the
spread of aphids. Popular thought was the cold winters, which are intolerable for H.
axyridis, would kill the current population and agriculturists could start anew the next
season. However, once the weather begins to turn colder, infestation occurs in the
homes surrounding the population. It is well known that other insects, such as beetles
(coleoptera) and cockroaches (blattaria), that have similar seasonal behavior have given
cause to an increase in allergies and allergic reactions. H. axyridis would be no
exception. Several specimens were collected, identified as H. axyridis, and tested on ten
individuals using skin pricks and touching the area surrounding the eyes after handling
the specimens to determine if any allergic reaction occurred.
Key words: Harmonia axyridis, Asian Lady Beetle, overwintering, allergies, allergic
reaction.
Behavior of Cliff Swallows during the Morning, Noon, and Evening at the Mission in San
Juan Capistrano, CA, U.S.A.
Ryan C. Looney, 2103 May Hall, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84604. E-Mail:
RyanLooney@mac.com
Abstract:
The reason and purpose for performing the study of observing the behavior of the everpersistent cliff swallows was to discover what sort of biotic and a-biotic factors affected their
behavior throughout the day. I observed the birds for a total of four days, Friday, Saturday,
Sunday and Monday at 6:00-8:00 AM, 12:00-1:00 PM, and finally 5:00-7:00 PM. I
hypothesized that the birds would be most active when the weather was warmer, when the town
was less crowded, and even more specifically, around the hours of 7:00 AM. I would go down
to the mission everyday where there is the largest population of cliff swallows and observe their
behavior and how it was effected by temperature (weather conditions), time of day, and amount
of pedestrian and automobile traffic on the streets surrounding the mission. For the most part I
saw most swallows in mid-day (when the temperature and weather were moderate) despite the
pedestrian and vehicular traffic, than in the early and evening hours. Traffic and human
presence surprisingly had no effect on the activity of the birds. Also, the weather in San Juan
remained the same throughout the experiment so that had no effect.
Keywords: Activity, Petrochelidon pyrrhonota, colonies, companion, weather, social behavior.
The Application of the Theory of Natural Selection to Plants Growing
on BYU Campus.
David Lowe, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, 136 W. 200 S. Provo, UT
84601 Email: low09001@byui.edu
Abstract
The Purpose of this observational study was to apply Charles Darwin’s theory of
Natural selection to the plant life around BYU’s Campus. The campus is a good place to
do the study because for one it has many green areas where one can observe different
plant species. It also has a very diverse variety of plant life from different parts of the
country and the world. I will observe which plants are able to escape the grounds crews
that trim down the shrubbery. These plants that are hiding are the ones that I will pay
closest attention to because in this scenario they are the ones that survive the best.
Key Words
Charles Darwin, natural selection, Kentucky blue grass, resilience.
Reasons for Aggressive Behavior of Mallard Ducks (Anseriformes: Anatidae) on the Provo
River: Provo, UT, U.S.A.
Isaac Lyman, 1977 N 40 W #92, Provo, UT 84604 Email: isaaclyman@gmail.com
Abstract
Mallard ducks (A. platyrhynchos) are peaceful creatures for most of the day, but at
seemingly random times, they will become violent towards their own kind, biting and pecking
each other vigorously. As ducks are social creatures, this sort of behavior seems non-adaptive
and worthy of investigation. I determined that I would discover why ducks fight. I hypothesized
that they were competing for food and mates, either of which may be scarce on the Provo River.
Several observations were made over the course of three months, attempting to discover
motives for the fighting. Variables such as the sex of involved ducks, behavior before and after
fights, the air temperature, and time of day were noted. Other variables were considered, but not
specifically noted.
No attempts were made to alter conditions to cause aggression, for fear of introducing
unnatural motives. Fights were infrequent, and did not occur during every observation. The
frequency of duck-fights decreased as the temperature dropped, though there was not enough
available information to make more than a tenuous conclusion about this. I decided that the
fights were not connected to the availability of food.
In synthesizing all my observations, I found a few possible solutions to the question,
“Why do ducks fight?” It may be to assert dominance or protect personal space, or it may
simple be a playful instinct.
Key words: Mallard; duck; anatidae; waterfowl; competition; intraspecific fighting; aggression;
animal behavior; attacks; Utah
The positive relationship between case length and size of materials used in
caddisfly (Trichoptera) larval cases found in the Provo River, UT, USA
Rachel P. Mahrt, 840 N 100 W Apt. 15, Provo, UT 84604. Email: rmahrt@byu.net
Abstract: Caddisfly (Trichoptera) larvae use sediment from the river bottom to build
their cases. I wanted to find out if there was a correlation between the length of the
cases and the size of sediment used. I went to the Provo River and collected 27
caddisfly larvae and counted the sediment larger than .5mm in each one. I found that
there is a positive correlation between the length of a case and the size of the sediment
used in it. Possible explanations include efficiency in case-building, preservation of silk,
and the change of preference during progression of instars (stages within the larval
stage).
Keywords: grains, sediment, Trichoptera, larvae, house-building, selection
The Effect Boxelder bugs' (Boisea trivitatta) feeding habits have on the mass of
Boxelder tree (Acer negundo) Seeds
Joel H. Marshall, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602,
Email: jhmarshall88@yahoo.com
Abstract
Boxelder Bugs (BEBs), Boisea trivittata, are generally considered pests, because of
their aggregation to buildings and houses in the spring and winter months. During their active
period, they feed off of the seeds of the Boxelder tree, Acer negundo. Samples of Boxelder
seeds and BEBs were taken mid-October and placed into two groups. One containing BEBs
and seeds, and one containing only seeds. Measurements of mass were taken for a period of 26
days, as well as general observations, such as color and the number of living BEBs. At the
conclusion of the experiment, the percentage of weight loss of both samples differed by only
2.4%. It was determined that the small percentage difference was within the bounds of
scientific error. Therefore, BEBs seem to have no significant impact on the mass of the seeds
they feed on.
Keywords: Feeding habits, Environmental impact, predator bugs, symbiosis, commensalism
Difference in planktonic algal growth rate due to pollution in Utah Lake and Provo River:
Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Mykensie R. Martin, 151 E 300 N #4, Provo, UT 84606 Email: mykensier@gmail.com
Abstract
Different species of algae grow in different conditions. Samuel Rushforth’s work in
classifying the species of Utah Lake show great diversity within Utah Lake at different bays.
More research can be done to observe what factors allow different planktonic species to grow. I
conducted a natural experiment by placing tiles at marked places in both the Provo River and
Utah Lake and allowing four weeks of algal growth. I expected to find a difference in algal
growth rate as the two locations differed in temperature, turbidity, and pollution. I suspected
that the pollution would play the biggest role in growth rate as it has the biggest effect on
nutrient levels. Because the Utah Lake is more polluted, I expected that the lake samples would
grow algae quicker. However, due to weather conditions that destroyed data from the Provo
River, data was limited in comparing the two sites. The tiles collected from Utah Lake did not
show algal growth on the grid created, and observations from the Provo River showed that there
may have been algae growth, but I could not collect any tiles from the river. Reasons for the
absence of algal growth in Utah Lake and the possible growth from the Provo River are
explored in this paper.
Keywords: algae; growth rate; turbidity; temperature; pollution; sediment; seasonal growth.
The Effects of Climate Change and Tree Dendrochronology. Provo, Utah, U.S.A
Jordan W. Massey, 1505 N. Canyon Rd Apt. 36, Provo, Utah 84604
Email: jordan_massey_3@hotmail.com
Abstract
Climate change is something that has become somewhat of an international
concern for many politicians and the common people around the world. A great way to
study climate change is by looking at tree rings. This is called: Dendrochronology. I
will be studying local climate change. I will take tree ring samples from trees in an
around Provo, Utah by using an increment borer. This is a specialized tool that will be
able to take tree ring samples. The tree rings will be analyzed and studied to see if: tree
ring growth is constant, if there is a smaller growth due to a dryer growing season, or if
the rings are larger because of more rainy season.
key words: climate change, dendrochronology, tree ring, increment borer, growth
patterns
Effect of temperature and proximity to natural water source on diversity of
arthropod population near Provo River: Provo, Utah, USA
Brooke Maxwell, 1285 North 200 West Apt. 10, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
bemaxwell@jm-astro.com
ABSTRACT
Water is crucial from the survival of any species; proximity to a water source is a key
factor in success of a species. Insect populations vary with temperature, and further
research was conducted to determine whether proximity to water within a small area by
Provo River is a factor in population of arthropods. I set up pitfall traps in eight
locations along Provo River and collected and identified the arthropod samples for four
consecutive days. There was no real difference in the variety from the two distances,
but there was an increase in variety on a day with a warmer temperature compared to
the other days, which were much cooler. This shows that within such a limited
distance, proximity to water does not make an observable difference in variation, but
temperature has an impact on the variety. More observations would have to be made
over a greater distance in order to determine the exact relationship between proximity to
water and population diversity.
Keywords: arthropod, diversity, river, proximity, temperature
Bacterial Growth on various surfaces in student housing, male and female:
The most contaminated areas, potentially affecting the spread of sicknesses in colder months
Mariangela “Matz” Mazzei
701N 500W #208
Provo, Utah 84604
E-mail: Mariangela.Mazzei@gmail.com
Phone: (801)427-8717
For: Professor C. Riley Nelson
Abstract
With the onset of cold and flu season, it is often wondered how so many people can can
sick at one time. Is it due to drastic changes in temperature or weather conditions? Do these
conditions weaken the immune system, thus making it easier to catch a cold? Where do people
pick up the germs that seemingly overwhelm their systems at this time of year? While the
objective of the nature experience is to find things from the outdoors to research, I contest that
finding the bacteria that grows in one’s apartment may give us a clues as to how so many people
get sick during the cold and flu season. The objective of this paper is to track the amount of
bacteria brought into the home from outside, how it grows, and then use that as a determinent
for how much bacteria is then taken back outside and carried/transferred from person to person.
This will, I feel, prove effective in showing one of the ways in which germs are spread and,
consequently, how many people become ill during the colder months.
Furthermore, this paper will determine the effects of antibacterial cleansers on bacteria
growth; whether or not it makes a difference on the spreading and growth of everyday bacteria.
Keywords: bacteria, germs, cold/flu virus, spreading germs, petri dishes, swab, agar.
Influence of Soil Type on the Growth and Overall Health of Quaking Aspen Trees
(Populus tremuloides)
Karen J. McCartney 1864 North 80 West Provo, UT 84604
Email: kjm.139@gmail.com
Abstract:
In Utah Valley there are many people who plant aspen trees in their yards expecting
them to grow successfully. However, these trees do not thrive as they do in groves that can be
found in the mountains. The soil which they are planted in is a major factor to how the tree can
obtain nutrients and expand its root systems. Soil will be collected from the base of the trees in
various locations in the mountains where the organism appears to be successful. Those samples
will be compared to samples taken from trees in the valley and compared. Hypothesis is that the
soil in the mountains that Populus tremuloides thrives in is different in material makeup than
that of soil in the valley.
Key words: quaking aspen trees, soil, mountains, valley, productivity
Influence of Color on Insect Leaf Selection in the Wasatch Front: Provo, UT, U.S.A.
Meghan McGregor, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84604.
Email: elizam18@gmail.com
Abstract
The behaviors of many insects are affected in large part by their ability to obtain the
resources necessary for survival. Driven by instinct, insects use their senses as well as a variety
of adaptations in order to efficiently gain access to the provisions of life such as sustenance and
reproductive opportunities. In environments in which sun light and photosynthesis are present
and have a significant impact on the local ecosystem, the capacity to visually identify potential
food sources is generally a beneficial and important ability, especially for leaf-eating insects.
Since leaves are green for most of the year, an experiment was conducted with the purpose of
investigating the impact of varying fall leaf colors on leaf-eating insects. A sample size of sixty
leaves was obtained from three deciduous leafy tree species present along the Wasatch Front of
the Rocky Mountains around the Provo, Utah area: Bigtooth Maple (Acer grandidentatum,)
Gambel Oak (Quercus gambelii,) and Quaking Aspen (Populus temuloides.) The sample was
examined for evidence of leaf-eating insect consumption and then correlated to the partial or
continuous coloring patterns of the leaves. Consistent with the author’s hypothesis, a
relationship between leaf coloring patterns and insect damage emerged, reflecting the impact of
visual cues in food selection for leaf-eating insects.
Key words: insects, food selection, color, fall, trees, leaves, defoliation, adaptation, observation,
experiment, Wasatch Front.
Determine the Effectiveness of Ant Defense Pheromone in Carpenter Ants
(Camponotus)
Devin Mendenhall, 778 E 560 N, Provo, UT 84606 Email:
dmendenhall_9@hotmail.com
Ants (Formicidae) on their own are seemingly small and insignificant insects.
These insects work together to defend their colony against much larger predators. The
defense of the colony largely depends on pheromones released by dead ants and how the
colony works together to communicate this information. Research was performed to
determine the effectiveness of which an ant colony can defend itself. Crushed ants were
placed in varying distances to an anthill to determine the reaction of the colony. It was
discovered that more important than the distance which the ant was placed from the
colony, was the ability of one or two ants to detect the pheromone released by the dead
ant. If this were possible the ants would quickly pass this information back to the
colony and go into a frenzy. It was determined that the effectiveness of ant defense
depended on whether these ants were able to communicate the pheromone message
back to the colony quickly.
Keywords: Pheromone, carpenter ants, Camponotus, ant colony, defense, Provo Canyon
UT
Air Temperature’s Affect on the Population of Bird Species at Nunn’s Park, Utah, USA
Melissa L. Michels, 551 North 200 East Apt 101, Provo, Utah 84606 Email:
melissa4491@gmail.com
Abstract
Due to seasonal weather changes birds must adapt to survive. There are many factors
that the birds must adapt to, with one of the most basic being, air temperature. As air
temperature decreases there is a noticeable effect on the population of birds, including many
species’ yearly migration during winter. To further research this change, I performed an
observational experiment at Nunn’s Park, Utah with local species of birds. While at the park, I
identified and made a daily count of several species of bird. In addition, the air temperature was
documented with each visit so that I could find the correlation between bird species population
and weather temperature. Data was collected on days with varying weather to determine
correlation. Results showed that on days when temperature was greater than 16 degrees Celsius
average population of birds was 6. On days where temperature was less than 5 degrees Celsius
average population of birds was .5. Thus the results show that there is a strong correlation
between the decrease in temperature and the decrease in bird population.
Keywords: climate, birds, Utah, correlation, Nunn’s Park
Preference of Honeybee or Wasp in Funnel-Webbed Spider’s Diet (Araneae: Agelenidae)
in Rock Canyon: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Keith Moore, 1713 North 2000 West, Provo, Utah 84604
Email: keithmoore13@gmail.com
Abstract
The diet of a funnel-web spider (Agelenidae) includes many insects isn’t very selective.
It is forced to be selective, however, when two choices between insects happen upon it
simultaneously. Experiments will be conducted to find out if there is an overwhelming favorite
when the spider is confronted with the choice of a honeybee or a wasp. Different funnel-webbed
spiders will have both a wasp and a honeybee placed in their web at the same time. Results of
the spider’s selection will be plotted, along with any differences the wasps or honeybees show
that are obvious factors in the selection between the two.
Keywords: funnel-web spider, agelenidae, honeybee, wasp, diet, forced selection.
A Slice of Forest Dissected: What’s There?
Danielle Morgan, 64 North 920 East, Orem, Utah 84097. Email: danielle.morgan@gmail.com
Abstract
“A Slice of Forest Dissected: What’s There?” analyzes the environment of the forest
located in Hartman Park, a flourishing ecosystem located in Redmond, Washington. The soil,
wildlife, plants, and water is broken down to know exactly what lives and grows there. With
information like this, one can determine how the environment would be impacted if a housing
development or another type of building were to be built there.
Keywords: soil, water, plants, wildlife, Hartman Park, environmental impact
Characteristics and Causes of Blossom End Rot on Tomato Plants
(Lysopersicon Esculentum): Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Haley A. Morris, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602
Email: hamorris3@gmail.com
Blossom end rot (BER) is a common disease that infects tomato plants
(lysopersicon esculentum). It is caused by a deficiency of calcium and potassium in the
tomatoes as they grow. Testing plants by giving them calcium and potassium
supplements can show if an extra supply of these supplements will help the tomatoes rid
themselves of and/or stop the blossom end rot from occurring. Experiments like this
will be conducted to see whether the supplements will actually affect the plants.
Calcium helped the tomatoes stop the BER from continuing to grow; yet it could not rid
the plants of BER. The potassium had less affect on the BER on the tomatoes. A
calcium deficiency was found to be the main cause of the BER. The calcium should be
used at the beginning of the plants life during the first growing stages to prevent BER
from forming at all.
Keywords: tomato, blossom end rot, tomato disease, lysopersicon esculentum
A study that compares the differences in the feeding habits of Brown trout Salmo trutta,
Rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss, and Mountain Whitefish Prosopium williamsoni in
the section of the Provo River immediately upstream from Deer Creek Reservoir.
Brandon Mortensen, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84606.
outdoorsmanblm@gmial.com
Abstract
This experiment was performed in order to better understand the similarities in eating
habits of three different species of fish found in the Provo River; the Rainbow trout
Oncorhychus mykiss, Brown trout Salmo trutta, and the Mountain Whitefish Prosopium
williamsoni. I caught and legally harvested three samples of each species, then dissected the
stomach of each fish, observed its contents, and counted and separated the different kinds of
aquatic insects that each fish had ingested. My hypothesis was that each species of fish would
contain a different diet of aquatic invertebrates. My results were inconclusive. I could not find
a pattern in the eating habits of the different species. Each of the fish had eaten a unique
mixture of aquatic insects. Even the diet of individuals of the same species varied greatly
leading me to believe that fish eating habits are more related to the food choices of individuals,
and the availability of food at specific locations on the river, and not related to an overlying
pattern as a species. To clarify my results I could have taken more samples of each species to
find a more realistic average. I also could have gone fishing at exactly the same time of day
each time, or taken samples from a different section of the river. My data did not support my
hypothesis, but the results were very interesting and merit further investigation and observation.
Key words: Brown trout, Rainbow trout, feeding habits, Provo River, comparison, caddisfly,
whitefish.
Aspen tree (Populus tremuloides) leaf color and abundance based on distance from
Provo River, Provo, Utah, United States of America
Carmen C. Mowrey, 1208 Hinckley Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: cmowrey@byu.net
Abstract
The rate at which an aspen tree’s (Populus tremuloides) leaves change color and
fall off is believed to be affected by how much nitrogen, sunlight and water gets
absorbed by the tree. An experiment was conducted observing how the distance from
Provo River and six aspen trees effected what color their leaves were and how many
leaves were still attached by measuring the distance, taking pictures, and recording
observations in a table. The experiment did not prove whether or not there was a
relationship between the distance and the leaf color, however there was a significant
amount of leaves on the trees within five feet of the river compared to those more than
ten feet away. This experiment also revealed that there were more leaves present on the
tops of all the trees than near the bottom. Although this experiment did not prove the
relationship between the distance between a water source and a tree’s leaf color, it is
noted that the experiment was conducted at the end of autumn and therefore if it was to
be repeated, it should take place at the beginning of autumn.
Keywords: aspen tree, populus tremuloides, water, leaves, color.
The environment’s effect on the cricket’s (orthopetra: gryillae) chirp. Provo Canyon: Provo,
Utah, U.S.A.
Claire N. Murphy, 89 Penrose Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 claire.murphy91@yahoo.com
Keywords
Some keywords or phrases that were used to help find research for this experiment
included: temperature and conversions, temperature effects, pitch, geography of Provo Canyon,
the cricket’s song, and insect sounds.
Abstract
The cricket’s chirp (gryllidae) has been found to be influenced by its environment, one
factor being the temperature. More research is required to determine what kind of effect hot and
cold temperatures have on the crickets. The cricket’s response to temperature change will be
measured by the difference in the pitch of its chirp. The number of chirps will also be counted to
see if there is a correlation in this area with the temperature. Crickets from various areas,
including Provo Canyon and Mt. Timpanagos, will be selected, identified and counted
frequently and the temperature of the cricket’s environment will also be recorded. This
experiment will show us what influence the temperature has on the cricket’s chirp. This
experiment is based on the rumor that says the temperature in Fahrenheit can be determined by
counting the number of cricket chirps within a minute. At least ten samples will be taken at each
observation in order to find an average which will then be used to calculate the temperature.
Abstract
Trees are traditionally believed to shed their leaves in autumn primarily because
the high costs involved in their maintenance would outweigh the benefits from
photosynthesis during the winter period of low light availability and cold temperatures.
The color of a leaves results from an interaction of different pigments produced by the
plant. The information on why chemically leaves change colors is widely known,
however other environmental factors are still being disputed among biologists around
the world. Many things add up to why leaves change colors at the rate they do. For my
experiment I decided to choose five different elevations to go to, starting on campus,
and then going up through the Provo Canyon. At each elevation I took pictures of
leaves from different trees to see how many of the leaves had already started changing
colors. The phenomenon of leaves changing colors has been explored at great lengths.
There are a few different reasons as to why it happens. These are however theories, and
are not accepted as completely accurate. Among the theories the most popular are
photoprotection, and coevolution. These theories help me better understand why the
leaves changed colors faster at higher elevations.
The effects of urban runoff on the biodiversity of invertebrates in the Provo River
Alicia Nelson, 450 N 1060 E #220, Provo, Utah, 84606. Email: alicianelson3@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The biodiversity of aquatic life can be greatly changed by the
surroundings of the body of water. In this study, I discuss the effects of
urban runoff on the biodiversity of invertebrates in the Provo River, in
Utah. I pose that the biodiversity will decrease as urbanization increases.
I do this by collecting bugs in different locations along the river and
comparing their diversity. My results show that the biodiversity does not
decrease with urbanization, but through explanation of my data and using
past studies, I conclude that the types of invertebrates present does
change based on the level of urbanization.
Keywords: biodiversity, invertebrates, urbanization, Provo River
Altitude’s effect on the population and diversity of insects in Provo, Utah
Heidi Neve, 144 West 2060 North Apt. 228, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
heidi.neve@comcast.net
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to determine if the biodiversity of insects (the
abundance of certain species and diversity of species) was affected by differences in
altitude in the Provo, Utah region. My hypothesis was that there would be less insect
biodiversity at higher elevations. The conclusions drawn by the experiment was that
there was only a slight difference in biodiversity between the selected regions of low
and high elevations, but that higher elevations yielded fewer insects and more of the
same type of insect. There was also a difference in the type of biodiversity found at the
different regions; it seemed as if smaller insects, more ants and spiders, were caught at
the higher elevations on Y Mountain. Larger insects and creatures made their way into
the pitfall traps placed at lower elevations surrounding the Provo River trail. This
discovery answered the question of differing levels of biodiversity, but also opened up
another of what elevation truly affects for insect species.
Keywords: insect biodiversity, altitude, Provo, difference, species preference.
A comparison of tree-ring patterns in three different species of tree
Scot Nielsen, 1565 N University Ave, Provo, Utah 84604. Email: s.nielsen@byu.edu
Abstract:
Nine core samples were taken from three species of tree in Provo canyon. The
exact species are not important to the study. The samples were then examined to
determine whether any similar patterns were present in the rings from different species.
No matching patterns were found among the three groups. Additionally, no matching
patterns were noticeable within each group.
Keywords: tree-ring analysis; pattern variance; growth similarities.
Soothing Vocal Techniques on Grand Collomia (Solanales, Polemoniaceae) in Provo Canyon:
Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Gavin S. Nitta, 1122 Helaman Halls Building 9, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
gshigeto@yahoo.com
Abstract
The rate of growth can be effected by the amount of soothing vocal techniques that an
individual uses around the plant. Experiments will be conducted in Provo Canyon with local
plants to show that their growth behavior will change with the amount of soothing that one does.
In other words, does the amount of talking to a plant effect the growth of a plant directly. Plants
from two different areas will be watched as weekly soothing will occur. Plants will be
approximately measured in height and width with a ruler on a weekly basis before each
“soothing session” occurs. The differences will be recorded to see if soothing a plant with vocal
techniques really does help plants grow.
Keywords: Inflorescence, mountain trumpets, capsule.
Autumn Leaf Color Changes Relation to Diminishing Leaf Water Content in Green Ash
Trees (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) in Provo, Utah, U.S.A
Brian R. Nixon, 442 North 500 East Apt. # 9, Provo, Utah 84606 Email:
cool_nix1@yahoo.com
Abstract
This experiment focused on the discoloration of leaves during the autumn
season. Experimentation sought to determine whether easily apparent seasonal changes
in leaf color are directly related to a drop in the water content of individual leaves with
such change in color occurring in a progressive fashion along from green to yellow to
brown. In order to test the hypothesis leaves in various stages of autumn color were
subjected to a drying process. After reviewing the data gathered it was determined that
reducing the water content through the drying process did effectively alter the leaves
color. The diminished water content however does not appear to be the only factor
involved in nature because the resulting colors differ from those naturally seen.
Autumn Leaf Color Changes Relation to Diminishing Leaf Water Content in Green Ash
Trees (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) in Provo, Utah, U.S.A
Brian R. Nixon, 442 North 500 East Apt. # 9, Provo, Utah 84606 Email:
cool_nix1@yahoo.com
Abstract
This experiment focused on the discoloration of leaves during the autumn
season. Experimentation sought to determine whether easily apparent seasonal changes
in leaf color are directly related to a drop in the water content of individual leaves with
such change in color occurring in a progressive fashion along from green to yellow to
brown. In order to test the hypothesis leaves in various stages of autumn color were
subjected to a drying process. After reviewing the data gathered it was determined that
reducing the water content through the drying process did effectively alter the leaves
color. The diminished water content however does not appear to be the only factor
involved in nature because the resulting colors differ from those naturally seen.
The Effect of the distance of water on trees with respect to leaf type, bark type, insect life
and size.
Ben Olpin, 2123 Budge Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: king.benjamin@sbcglobal.net
Abstract
Plants grow very differently in different environments due to the large amount of
diversity in abiotic factors that affect growth. The purpose of this experiment was to observe
trees and surrounding plants in areas that different in terms of how much water was there
constantly. I observed an area directly on the Provo River and another area in Rock Canyon to
compare the differences between the trees where some have a river to take their water from and
an area that does not have such an eternally accessible body of water to use. Many different
features of the trees were observed and compared including their identity, their leaves, what
kind of bark they have, what kinds of insects inhabit the different trees and their respective
sizes. I found that at the time I performed the experiment it was too cold for the insects to be
living there and they had moved away or died. I observed that the Fremont Cottonwood
(Populous fremonti) and the American Linden, or Basswood (Tilia maricana), trees along the
river were much taller and thicker than the mainly maple and oak trees in Rock Canyon and
conclude that the much smaller distance to the river is the primary reason for this larger size
(Brough 1993).
Key words: Cottonwood (Populous fremonti), American Linden, Basswood (Tilia maricana),
Gambel Oak (Quercus gambeli), Provo River, Rock Canyon
Wound-wood, the Perfect Donut for Trees in Utah, U.S.A.
Kyle R. Olsen 1722 Lambert Lane, Provo, Utah, U.S.A. Email: krolsen5@gmail.com
Abstract.
Trees, much like humans, after being cut try and seal off any exposed flesh. The
equivalent of a scab for a tree is wound-wood. I wanted to understand pruning techniques that
induce wound-wood formation, which leads to occlusion. To collect data I went along the
Provo River by the Motion Pictures Studio and looked at cuts that had been made on the trees
by the BYU tree trimming crew or the City of Provo. While viewing the cuts, I noted if the cut
had been made inside the branch collar, wrote down the diameter of the cut (when possible),
noted if there was any wound-wood formation, and looked at the discoloration of the wood. I
also observed what happens when a branch dies but is not pruned. Because so many tree types
were observed, when the cuts were made is unknown, and limb size varied; results were
inconclusive. The only sure trend observed was that a tear greatly hinders occlusion and can
slow down wound-wood formation. More controls need to be implemented to better understand
methods that would increase wound-wood inducement while pruning and trimming.
Keywords: Wound-wood, wound-wood formation, pruning, trimming, occlusion
Duck Migration Botany Pond & Arboretum and Utah Lake, Provo, UT USA
Leslie Ostler. 34 E 700 N Apt 11, Provo, UT, 84606. Email: leslieostler@gmail.com
Abstract
Duck Migration is triggered by a few factors, including: food supply, temperature, and
wind conditions. For this Nature Experience, I studied the ducks at the Botany Pond and the
ducks at Utah Lake. Beginning on the 5th of October, I daily checked on the ducks at both
locations. If I could not make it for any reason, I noted that in my notes. I was expecting that
the ducks would start migrating with the first serious drop of weather, and I was positive that
they would have been migrated by the first snowfall. This paper shows that temperature is not
necessarily the key trigger and bird migration also changes based on location.
key words: ducks, migration, temperature, Utah Lake, Botany Pond & Arboretum
Influence of the Proximity of Water to the Health of the Angelica Wheeleri Plant on the Provo
River in Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Julia C. Pace, 765 East 750 North Apt. 6, Provo, Utah 84606 Email: jcpace1@yahoo.com
Abstract
The health of a plant is affected by the amount of water it is able to receive, but more
research needs to be done to determine whether differences in proximity to water has an affect
on the Angelica Wheeleri and the plant’s overall health. Experiments will be conducted on the
bank of the Provo River in Provo Canyon using three different plants of the same species of
Angelica Wheeleri at various stages of growth and health, each being at separate and unique
distances to the edge of the river and water source. The characteristics of the plant associated
with plant health will be recorded on a weekly basis over the course of a four-week period. The
data that is collected will help determine the relationship between plant health and plant
proximity to a water source.
Keywords: Plant growth, water, roots, photosynthesis.
Growth patterns of fresh water Blue Green algae (Nostocaceae) based on smooth or rough
surfaces in the Provo River: Provo, Utah U.S.A.
Jonathan Packard, 95 Rogers Hall, Provo, UT 84604 Email: stuntjunkie13@gmail.com
Abstract
The growth rate of blue-green algae (cyanophyta) was monitored to see if algae would
grow more abundantly on smooth or rough surfaces. Experiments were conducted in the Provo
River using smooth and rough stones, as well as sticks with rough and smooth bark as testing
variables. The stones were glued to square dowels to hold them in the mud of the river bottom.
The sticks were tethered to dowels to keep them from floating to the surface as well as keeping
them from washing away. The growth was monitored for six weeks and then measured and
weighed. The rough rock accumulated more growth than the smooth rock. No algae growth
was detected, just dirt accumulation and moss. Assumed algae growth was restricted due to the
temperature changes in the river water. Accumulation growth was assumed to be affected by
two aspects: 1 – surface area, and 2 – texture of surface. Greater surface area as well as rougher
texture produced the most growth.
Keywords: Blue Green Algae; Nostocaceae; Cyanophyta; Chroococcales; Fresh water
Growth patterns of fresh water Blue Green algae (Nostocaceae) based on smooth or rough
surfaces in the Provo River: Provo, Utah U.S.A.
Jonathan Packard, 95 Rogers Hall, Provo, UT 84604 Email: stuntjunkie13@gmail.com
Abstract
The growth rate of blue-green algae (cyanophyta) was monitored to see if algae would
grow more abundantly on smooth or rough surfaces. Experiments were conducted in the Provo
River using smooth and rough stones, as well as sticks with rough and smooth bark as testing
variables. The stones were glued to square dowels to hold them in the mud of the river bottom.
The sticks were tethered to dowels to keep them from floating to the surface as well as keeping
them from washing away. The growth was monitored for six weeks and then measured and
weighed. The rough rock accumulated more growth than the smooth rock. No algae growth
was detected, just dirt accumulation and moss. Assumed algae growth was restricted due to the
temperature changes in the river water. Accumulation growth was assumed to be affected by
two aspects: 1 – surface area, and 2 – texture of surface. Greater surface area as well as rougher
texture produced the most growth.
Keywords: Blue Green Algae; Nostocaceae; Cyanophyta; Chroococcales; Fresh water
"Ants? why did they have to be ants?"
Keywords: Carpenter Ant, Food Particles, Ant Hill, Average Temperature,
Activity
Abstract
When asked to do a nature project, I had no idea where to start. Up until
the day before the proposal was due, I did not know what to do with my
project. When I was in my dorm room, I noticed some crumbs from a popcorn
piece were on my floor; both had ants eating them. I then looked outside and
noticed it was a very gloomy day. Then I had a thought, what do ants tend to eat
more? And does the weather affect how active the ants are? I have a sense of
wonder about that particular insect. So for my project, I wanted to test how
actively your typical Carpenter black ant will go after a chosen food and see if the
weather affects the activity of the ants.
The effect of elevation on aquatic insect’s choice of habitat in Hobble Creek:
Springville, Utah, U.S.A.
Brian Robert Patrick, 1606 E. 300 S. Springville, Utah 84663,
Email: Patrick_end@live.com
Abstract
My study analyzes the different species of aquatic insects found in the Hobble
Creek in Springville, Utah at different elevations. A wider fluctuation in water
temperatures occur at higher altitudes and this change in water temperature indirectly
effects the emergence of most aquatic insects. The emergence of aquatic insects first
begins between 5,000 ft and 5,500 ft in altitude. (Nebeker) Which makes 5,500 ft in
elevation an ideal location for collecting aquatic insect specimen. It is my hypothesis
that certain species of aquatic insects are incapable of surviving in different locations of
the same creek because of the variations in elevation. I collected insects at three
different locations at three different elevations (4,500 ft, 5,500 ft and 6,500 ft) along the
Hobble Creek in Springville, Utah. Upon collection and analysis of my aquatic insects I
noticed that as I had collected a specimen from one location and I was able to collect
that same species of insect at another location, such as the species Homoeoneuria
Isonychiidae which I found at both at location #1 and location #3. This data ultimately
disproves my theory that a particular species of aquatic insect inhabits only one
elevation.
Keywords: Aquatic, Insects, Altitude, Springville, Utah, Hobble Creek, Habitat,
Aeshna, Darner Dragonfly, Asellus Aquaticus Asellidae, Hexagenia, Common
Burrower Mayfly, Homoeoneuria Isonychiidae, Narpus, Riffle Beetle,
Oligochaeta Isonychiidae
Winter Condition’s Length and their Effect on Speed of Growth and Overall Strength of Tulip
and Daffodil Plants in Provo, UT USA
Heather Payne, 1849 N Freedom #222, Provo, UT 84604 Email: smileyatmont.42@gmail.com
Abstract
This experiment attempted to look into the effects that differing winter lengths can have
upon plant bulbs of tulips (Liliaceae Tulipa) and daffodils (Amaryllidaceae Narcissus). Using
generic brand bulbs, a freezer, a lamp and some tall glass jars I synthesized three different
winter lengths (one, two or three weeks) and a spring in my apartment in an attempt to force
these bulbs to sprout. My goal was to compare speed of growth, height and thickness of plant
shoots coming from these bulbs but for whatever reason they did not sprout. This could be due
to several factors, one of these being that the bulbs were unable to hibernate for a long enough
period, or that too much water drown the bulbs before they could grow. However, water intake
measurements of the two and three week bulbs could indicate that the bulbs were alive, and
were preparing to sprout before they became too water logged.
Keywords: Bulbs, Tulipa, Narcissus, Winter, Spring
Water Potential in Gambel Oak (Quercus gambelii) Leaves as Dormancy Occurs in
Provo Canyon: Provo,Utah,U.S.A.
Scott C. Peterson, 155 West 1060 North Apt.204, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
uteman9@gmail.com
Abstract
The genus Quercus (oak) is a tree or shrub which contains at least 600 species in the
world today. Through the use of a pressure bomb I was able eliminate variables and find
that as Quercus Gambelli goes through dormancy the leaves lose water potential.
Leaves having been lost from the branch stabalized around 5.5 MPa while Gambel oak
leaves still on the branch were much lower than that around 1-4 MPa. Thus proving that
as Quercus Gambelli loses water potential as it goes through dormancy.
Keywords: quercus, quercus gambelli, water potential, pressure bomb,
Growth and maturation rates of Malus domestica throughout the autumn season.
Shane Peterson, Brigham Young University, 138 Snow Hall, Provo, UT, 84602
Email: shrpeters19@gmail.com
Abstract
I found a Golden Delicious apple tree (Malus domestica) near the pedestrian bridge that
goes over the Provo River. I observed the growth and maturation rates of each apple throughout
the autumn season. I recorded any changes in color and other physical changes on each apple in
my field book, as well as photographing each one over the course of six weeks. I selected a
control apple by marking it with a permanent marker and measured it each week with a tape
ruler, to determine if it grows and by how much. I discovered that the fruit itself does grow, but
slowly, to about 24.1 cm in circumference, 6.1 cm in height, and 6.9 cm in diameter. Since the
control apple was in the shade from the bridge, it stayed green and experienced steady growth.
The other apples were exposed to the sunlight, turning yellow the first few weeks, and then
becoming burnt and shriveled. Many became infested with insects and had red spots all over
them.
Keywords: Golden Reinette, Grimes Golden, blossoming, fruit maturation, fall equinox.
Variation of winged (Hymenoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera) and non-winged (Araneae,
Myriapoda) insect populations in Provo, Utah depending on altitude deviation.
Christopher Lance Phelon, 562 North 200 East Apartment 10, Provo, Utah 84606. Email:
cphelon@nm.byu.edu
Abstract
Population changes and differences of winged vs. non-winged insects as related to
changes in elevation on Y Mountain in Provo, Utah were studied in order to discover any trends
in insect behavior as relating to fly fishing. The major orders of insects discovered were
Hymenoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera, Araneae, and Myriapoda. A general trend was seen that with
an increase in elevation there was a significant increase in winged insect population and a small
decrease in non-winged insect population. The effects of rainfall and temperature were also
reviewed to see the effects of these climate changes in relation to insect population over time.
The experiment consisted of collecting and documenting the number of insects found at 3 sites
at each of four different altitudes chosen, taking pictures to document the insects, and also
documenting the temperature, time, and other climate factors at the time of collection.
Keywords: population differences, diptera, coleoptera, elevation, fly fishing
How Quickly Cucurbita pepo Rot Based on Temperature and Exposure to
Interior.
Allyson Poaletti, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, 2210 Hinckley Hall,
Provo, UT 84604. Email: ARP727@gmail.com
Abstract
I tested the amount of time it takes for the average pie pumpkin, Cucurbita pepo,
to rot in different environments: carved verses not carved. I purchased pumpkins grown
in the Western United States in Prosser, WA by Fewel Farms. I tested these pie
pumpkins, Cucurbita pepo, in Provo, Utah in the fall weather. I carved three pumpkins
and left three uncut. I determined the temperature every night for ten days to see the
extent the rot would infect the Cucurbita pepo. I took pictures over the course of the ten
days showing the progression in the rot. Based on observations, Cucurbita pepo rot
more quickly when carved, and when in warmer temperatures.
KeyWords: Cucurbita pepo, rot, exposure, temperature, interior
The Effect of Large Particulate Matter on the Growth Rate of Digitaria sanguinalis
Evan P. Pratt, 1217 May Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: manof9845@yahoo.com
Abstract
In this study, I examined what would occur if larger grain sediment were spread over
patches of grass. I predicted that the sample not covered with sediment would out-perform the
other two by a margin of 37.2%. This was validated when I examined the data and concluded
that the dirt sample grew 10% less than the control and the sand 39% less. In the paper, I offer
several possible explanations for the decreased growth rate, deciding that the density of the sand
is the main obstacle it represents.
Key Words: Sediment, grass, density
Sunlight vs. Synthetic Lighting: The Effects of Various Light Sources on Sunflowers
(Helianthus annuus)
Chelsea Purcell, 101 A. Richards Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
chelsea308@hotmail.com
Abstract
Helianthus annuus (sunflowers) gradually shift to face the sun as the sun moves
across the sky throughout the day. Of course the sun is a great source of light, but the
question still remains if whether or not sunflowers will still move with a light source of
less strength. If so, how much light is necessary in order to stimulate the motion in
sunflowers? After observing sunflowers in nature during the day, during the night, and
with an artificial light, the trends regarding how much light is needed to move
sunflowers is significantly large. The sunflowers in direct sunlight shifted in a manner
that was quite obvious; however, the sunflowers relying on moonlight and artificial
lighting did not move as noticeably. Thus, sunflowers will only follow powerful sources
of light, such as the sun, and not minor ones, such as the moon or an artificial light.
Keywords: Helianthus annuus, Heliotropism
Thermal effects on the seed consumption of birds (Aves), primarily Quail (Galliformes
odontophoridae), along the Provo River: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Samantha K. Rainsdon, 1122 Stover Hall, Provo, Utah 84602,
manthaontheloch@hotmail.com
Abstract
The eating habits of birds (Aves) are subject to change with an increase or
decrease in temperature. My experiment took place along of Provo River in Provo, UT.
I recorded almost daily measurements to discover the correlation between the outside
temperatures and how much of a ½ cup of wild birdseed birds would consumed
throughout each day. I also kept track of any weather that varied from normal weather
conditions. All of this helped determine how temperature affected the seed consumption
of birds. I discovered that birds consume the highest amount of birdseed when the
temperature is coldest and also when it is warmest. There are many possible
explanations for this including bird recognition and memory of where food can be easily
collected and the natural instinct to gather food before winter hits.
Key Words: temperature, weather, Galliformes odontophoridae, food consumption,
metabolism, caching
Overwintering ground habitats of insects in Provo Canyon, Utah, U.S.A.
River Ralphs, 865 Wymount Terrace, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
lakelakelakelake@juno.com
ABSTRACT
"As a group, insects have limited ability to regulate their body temperature and
have thus required a range of strategies to support life" (Bale and Hayward 2010).
Research was done in Provo Canyon near Bridal Veil Falls to determine the amount of
insect life associated with broadleaf litter, needle-type litter, and no litter as
temperatures approach freezing with the onset of winter. The connection between the
general disappearance of insect life and the declining temperatures as winter approaches
can be associated with the increase in broadleaf litter. The research shows that
broadleaf litter is a more prominent location of winter shelter for insects than needletype litter or no litter at all.
Keywords: broadleaf litter, needle-type litter, shelter, temperature, exposure
Datura stramonium: a look at evolution in Rock Canyon, Provo, UT
Brian Rasmussen 339 N 700 E Provo, UT 84606 Email:briras21@gmail.com
Abstract
Datura stramonium is a plant commonly found throughout Utah, known
for its large flowers and spiky capsules. It is physically unique because of
its ability to produce a protective chemical toxin that guards against
predators. Although it was originally brought to the area from England as
a medicinal plant (Nunez-Farafan, Vargas, and Dirzo 1996), it can be
(Mitch 1989)
found as a weed throughout the world. Since ancient times, people have
regarded this plant as poisonous due to its ability to cause hallucinations and even death.
There have been multiple studies that have investigated the reasons why the Datura
stramonium has so many defenses, both chemically and physically, especially in its
regard to evolution. This study is another look at the evolution of Datura stramonium,
with the fieldwork investigated in the greater Provo area of Utah.
Keywords
Datura stramonium, evolution
The Effect of Distance from a Water Source and Temperature on the Population of
Insects at Utah Lake
Mary Raun, 942 N. University Ave Apt. 22, Provo, Utah 84604, mary.raun@gmail.com
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of two variables on insect
populations: distance from a water source and temperature. I set up a series of insect
collectors at different distances from Utah Lake in Lindon, Utah to discover whether or
not there was a detectable difference in the number of insects there were closer to and
further from the lake. I used information provided by the Provo Airport not far from the
sample location to monitor weather. The data produced for each variable showed trends
that indicated both affected insect populations. The closer to the lake and the higher the
temperature, the more insects there were. This paper discusses possible reasons for the
results obtained.
Key Words: Insects, Utah Lake, mosquitoes, distance, temperature, cold
Affects of rainfall on compost piles in Provo, UT USA
Sarah Ray, 455 E. 600 N. #5, Provo, UT 84606, email: sarahray2352@gmail.com
Abstract:
Composting can be an effective way to help develop fertilizer to use in a garden or other
growing environment. How much of a role does rainfall fit into the effectiveness of the
composting process? An experiment will be conducted at a local garden to see how rainfall
affects the rate of composting as measured by the increase in the growth of the grass around the
composting piles.
Keywords: rainfall, composting, growth rates, precipitation rates
Ants Find the Fastest Route in Rock Canyon Park: Provo,
Utah, U.S.A.
Jason S. Redford, 865 North 160 West University Villa Apt. 44, Provo Utah 84604
Email:
jasonredford87@gmail.com
Abstract
Although an ant (Formicidae) is a simple creature, as a whole a colony of ants
are able perform useful tasks such as finding the shortest path to a food source and
sharing this information with other ants by depositing pheromones ( Sim and Sun,
2003).
Over the summer I noticed that the ants in my kitchen would always travel in
single file and it was mostly the shortest path to the sugar spilt on the table from
breakfast the day before. I wondered what would happen if I blocked their path or tried
to redirect them. I knew that not all ants follow the main path used by the majority of
the colony, some wander out on there own. These observations from my apartment lead
me out to see if similar behavior can be observed in ants in Rock Canyon Park and
make hypothesis regarding why some ants stray from the obvious safety of the group
and why others stay in a line.
Experiments will be conducted in Rock Canyon Park to observe their ability to
navigate obstacles and find the best route to a controlled food source. This will be done
a series of different times to the same colony and to two others from different areas
within the canyon. I will be observing how the ants react to finding there way when the
environment is changed.
Keywords: Formicidae, pheromones, nest, finding sustenance, navigate obstacles, Rock
Canyon Park.
The Effect of Different Environments of the Western United States on Spinach
(spinacea oleracea) Growth
Morghen C. Rhodes, 437 N Belmont Pl #157, Provo, UT, 84606 Email:
morghenr@yahoo.com
Abstract
It is important for one to know how to grow plants that are suitable for the
climate and environment in which they live in and do so with efficiency. Although the
climate may be similar with close geographic regions, a different environment can
substantially affect the growth of plants. This study observes the growth of spinacea
oleracea, from the family Chenopodiaceae (common name: Spinach), which was
selected due to its ability to grow rapidly in a cold climate. Spinach was planted in three
different locations, the Provo suburban area, the Provo River, and on a ranch in Elko,
Nevada. A soil plot was created in each of the three locations where nine groups of
seeds were planted in each plot. Forty days later, each group of seeds that grew was
measured in centimeters based on the length of the stem. The data shows the suburban
area yielded the greatest average growth at 4.45 cm. The second highest growth rate was
the Provo River with an average of 2.4 cm of growth. The least amount of growth was
Elko, Nevada with an average of 0 cm. The best environment to grow Spinach in the
Western climates is in an area with direct sunlight, cool temperatures, and an adequate
water supply with little animal disturbance such as the suburban areas of Provo, Utah.
Keywords: Spinacea oleracea, spinach, Western United States, environmental effects,
climate, Provo River, Elko, suburban Provo
North American Mule Deer of the genus Odocoileus and species hemionus in Provo Canyon
between the mouth of the canyon and Soldier Hollow on US 189, foraging and migrating.
Andrew Rice, 671 N 200 E Provo, UT 84606, carreragt7@gmail.com
Abstract:
The Mule Deer Odocoileus hemionus is known to migrate during the winter months to better
find food for foraging. They migrate from the high mountainous areas to lower elevations in the
winter to avoid deep snow (Burt 1980). An area off of US 189 was chosen to be studied to see
whether the deer migrated closer to towns or steered clear of human population as much as
possible. This stretch of land was from the mouth of Provo Canyon to Soldier Hollow in
Midway. The final data showed that the deer did not seem to give preference to a specific
distance away from human population but instead were sighted fairly consistently along the
way. Accidental highway mortality was increased as the proximity to human population was
increased.
Keywords:
Mule deer; Provo Canyon; Utah Wildlife; Migration; Highway mortality
Diversity of plants depending on the elevation and other variables in Rock
Canyon: Provo, UT, U.S.A.
Wendy Rivera 1850N University Av. Apt. 215 Provo UT, 84604 Email:
warp17_@hotmail.com
Abstract
The distribution of plants (vegetation) in Rock Canyon was studied based by a
designate space and elevation. The best indicator of a most growing amount of plants
was remarkable in low areas. The procedures such as the measure of ground that limited
the space and allowed to make more effective the count of the diversity of plants help it
to have more narrow results. Within the experiment, it was essential to include basic
information related to plants. There are supported information that mention that some
plants are classify as dominant species. Furthermore, the data collected allowed to come
with a hypothesis that climate along with elevation modify population of plants for the
reason that plants can only effectuated photosynthesis in certain temperatures.
Key words: plants, elevation, temperature, dominant specie, resources.
Differences in American Cockroach (Dictyoptera: Blattidae) Populations at Higher
Elevations
Jerrick L. Robbins, 1565 N. University Ave. #143, Provo, UT 84604 Email:
jerrickrobbins@yahoo.com
Abstract
American cockroaches (Periplaneta Americana) are resilient creatures, known to survive
and live almost anywhere as long as water is nearby. The purpose of this experiment was to
determine the effects of elevation changes on the population of these insects. Experiments were
conducted on the banks of the Tibble Fork Reservoir, elev. 6365 ft, and Emerald Lake, elev
10399 ft, to determine the difference in the cockroach populations. Cockroaches were captured
on a bi-weekly basis, counted, and released back into the environment. Other factors such as
weather and temperature were also recorded, and the results were recorded and discussed.
Key words: American cockroach, Periplaneta Americana, elevation change, population
The result of chlorophyll reduction on fall leaves in Provo, Utah
Michael David Roberts, 862 E 700 N, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84606,
mrob01@me.com
Abstract
I have always been interested in the fact that leaves change color during the fall season. For my
Nature Experience I chose to take a closer look at why this fall foliage occurs. I collected a
handful of samples of different types of leaves from common trees located in the Provo, Utah
area. I performed an experiment using a process called chromatography in order to determine
what chemicals inside the cellular structure of the leaf actually brought about its current color.
As I researched this topic as well, I found that chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanins are
the main pigments inside of leaves that have a profound impact on their coloration.
Keywords: foliage, chlorophyll, carotenoids, anthocyanins
The effects of sunlight intensity on insect (Insecta) populations
Brett A. Robinson; 1969 North 160 West Apt. 183, Provo, Utah 84606; E-mail:
lbbrett01@gmail.com
Abstract
The population of insects (Insecta) in a single environment is affected by the intensity
of light in that environment. In order to show this, experiments were conducted near the Provo
River to show that as light intensity changes in an environment, the population of insects in the
environment will vary accordingly. Insect populations were captured using drop-traps made of
Dixie cups. These drop-traps were set up in three areas of varying light intensity: light, semilight, and dark. The captured specimens were then identified and counted and the total
population of each drop-trap was recorded. Data was recorded five times after five day periods.
The amount of light where each population is collected was then plotted against the population
density on a graph. It was observed and inferred that instead of one area of light intensity
showing more population than another, different intensities of light attracted a different
diversity of insects.
Keywords: sunlight, Insecta, drop-trap, population
Mule Deer (Odocoileus: Hemionus) dietary preferences in Dry Canyon: Lindon, Utah,
U.S.A
Parker S. Rogers, 155 South Dry Canyon Drive, Lindon, Utah 84042 Email:
pkspiderlegs@gmail.com
Abstract
Mule Deer (Odocoileus: Hemionus), in Dry Canyon have a seemingly vast diet, but
more research is needed to determine what exactly these animals eat. I conducted Experiments 1
mile up the Dry Canyon trailhead in Lindon, Utah, on the local Mule Deer in order to determine
the dietary preferences of these deer. I placed certain fruits, vegetables, and starches in a
designated area, on a three-foot high wooden platform, and made daily check-backs in order to
determine which of the foods are most preferred among the Mule Deer population. A
comparison between the different foods will determine the popularity of the foods among local
Mule Deer. Results showed that the local Mule Deer populations in the Dry Canyon area eat
everything that was put into the area, suggesting that Mule Deer ingest a wide variety of
different foods.
Key Words: Odocoileus hemionus; Mule Deer; ungulates; Dry Canyon; starches.
The effect of water pH in a body of water on the pH of soil in Provo, UT
Sarah Romero, 2103 Hinckley Hall, Provo, UT, 84604
Email: scoutsarah@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The pH of rainwater is acidic, and through testing has proven to change the pH
of the soil that absorbs it. The soil, which originally has a higher, more neutral pH
becomes more acidic as it accommodates the water. In the case of a body of water,
which stays in contact with the soil for a long time, the soil would change to become the
ph of the water, even though the water might only be slightly acidic. The acidic solution
gets rid of the nutrients in the soil, lowering its pH. I used universal pH testing paper
and distilled water to test the soil and water in bodies of water around Provo, UT to see
if this hypothesis would be correct. I compared the pH of the soil away from the water
with the soil underneath the water, and the pH of the soil beneath the water with the pH
of the water itself. I found that the pH of the soil did in fact change to become the pH of
the water, as it had absorbed so much of the water. The difference between the pH
between the dry soil and the soil beneath the water was about half a pH point. The wet
soil and water was more acidic than the dry soil. The water did have an effect on the
soil, making it more acidic.
KEYWORDS: Soil, Rainwater, pH, Acidity, Absorption
An Experiment of Aquatic Photosynthesis: A Study of the growth of
the Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) in the Provo River
Jason W. Romney, Brigham Young University,1565 N University Ave #194, Provo,
Utah 84604. Email: jwromney@gmail.com
Abstract
Photosynthesis is a necessary function of plant life in order to grow and also
give oxygen to the rest of the organisms that need it. Aquatic photosynthesis differs in
that plants are in the water yet they still need sunlight to produce energy. For this
project I used the Lotus plant to study the effects of this aquatic photosynthesis. I was
able to control the variable of light to easily study the growth of three plants which was
in a different position in the Provo River. For my results I found that all the plants grew,
but differed in growth rate. The two in direct and indirect sunlight grew the most and
the plant that was in no sunlight grew the least. From the findings I gathered I was able
to determine that a plant still needs adequate light to be able to produce photosynthesis.
I also found that the growth rate of plants may be linked to weather conditions and the
temperature in the river.
Key words: provo river, lotus, aquatic photosynthesis, plants, sunlight
Color of leaf changes in Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides), Mountain Ash (Sorbus
aucuparia), and Red Maple (Acer rubrum) during Autumnal Equinox in Wasatch County, UT,
USA
Jantsen Roney, 3109 Building 9, Helaman Halls, Provo, UT 84064, Email:
Jantsen.roney@gmail.com
Abstract
Nearly all deciduous trees’ leaves change colors during autumn. This is because as the
temperature drops and sunlight decreases, many of the leaves stop or slow the production of
chlorophyll. As this happens, the chlorophyll starts breaking down, revealing the carotenoids
and anthocyanins that were produced during spring and summer, but weren’t seen because of
the intensity of the green chlorophyll. The color left behind in the fall depends on the species of
tree. Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides) leaves turn yellow in the fall, Mountain Ash
(Sorbus aucuparia) leaves turn orange then red, and Red Maple (Acer rubrum) leaves usually
turn yellow then red in the fall. It interested me why the leaves would change different colors,
so I experimented, using paper chromatology to determine what color pigments were in the
various leaves in the fall. Results of the pigments varied based on the species of tree the leaves
were obtained from. Overall, it was found that there was an association between the amount of
color of certain pigments and the stage of senescence for most leaves.
Key words: Autumn, senescence, chromatology, fall, deciduous.
Influence of Altitude on Shapes of Leaves from Various Trees, Utah Valley Region: Utah,
U.S.A.
Natalie A. Rosenlof 3217 David John Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: nrosenlof@byu.net
Abstract
When we first received the assignment for this Nature Experience I intended to study
how different altitude levels affected the population of bird throughout the Utah Valley area. I
selected a few locations around the area (“including, but not limited to: BYU campus, Rock
Canyon, Y mountain, and Burraston Ponds in Mona, Utah”). Here I planned on observing the
native birds and figuring out whether or not the altitude had an effect on the species of birds
living there. However, as the date which I had previously set aside to go to all these locations
approached I realized the weather was such that I would not be able to see many birds. This
being the case I decided to observe something I knew would still be alive: the trees. I simply
took the same idea I had intended for the bird study and applied it to the trees. As such, I hope
that from my field research I will find out whether or not changes in elevation are a factor in the
shape of leaves on trees. For the purposes of this nature experience report I went to three
locations at varying elevations and observed the natural environment. I visited Canyon Glenn
Park in the Provo Canyon, near the Provo River; Y mountain trailhead; and Rock Canyon Park,
more specifically the Bonneville Trailhead. From these locations I gathered leaves from
different types to trees to observe and note if there are differences between the leaf shapes based
on elevation.
Keywords
“Native trees to Utah Valley,” “elevation changes and trees in Utah Valley,” “Utah
Valley trees,” “why leaves are certain shapes,” “leaf shapes,” “photosynthesis in plants”
Analysis of the Biomass Pyramid of Rock Canyon: Provo, Utah, U.S.A
Christopher J. Rowley, 600 East 750 North, Provo, Utah 84606 Email:
chrisrowley91@gmail.com
Abstract
This experiment quantitatively measures the biomass of the producers of the mouth of
Rock Canyon, an area of 0.50 square kilometers, and then extends these results to an area of 32
square kilometers (see Figure I). With this information an estimate of the entire biomass
pyramid of this region is calculated. Rock Canyon was chosen because of its ease of access and
its similarity to the rest of the mountain range at that elevation. The purpose of this experiment
is to create an ideal model that may be used in the future to determine whether this region is in
ecological threat from an imbalance in the distribution of the trophic levels; for example if
further research was done that concluded there was a significant increase in the amount of
secondary consumers, this amount could be checked against the projected ideal system. If the
difference is large enough to warrant concern, preventative policies could be implemented. Thus
the model created in this experiment could be a valuable tool to monitor this local environment,
which information may otherwise be totally unnoted.
How Altitude Influences Moss (Bryophyte: Musci) Growth in the Wasatch Mountains, Utah
Kari Ryser, 2221 Taylor Hall Provo, Utah 84604. Email:
Miraclewmba25@netscape.net
Abstract
Moss (bryophyte) growth varies depending upon the temperature, area, medium, and amount
of light hitting its surface. The purpose of this experiment is to investigate if altitude affects the
growth of moss (bryophyte) like these other factors do in the development stages of this nonvascular plant. In order to gather my research, I will go to different altitudes within the Wasatch
Mountains and measure how the growth of the moss native to Utah changes as a result. The
areas with the greenest, largest, and longest patch of moss will be viewed as the most successful
while those that have smaller, less developed green patches will be less developed. Other
variables that have drastic effects on the moss such as light and density difference will be
factored in the testing. The growth of the moss will be plotted against the altitude.
Keywords: moss, altitude, plant growth, bryophyte, Wasatch Mountains
The influence of the current causing algae to grow at different rates in
Provo River: Utah, U.S.A.
Michelle Saltzman, 55 Horne Hall, Provo Utah 86406, michellesaltz@gmail.com
Abstract
I investigated the current velocity in the river as a possible factor of plant growth. I first
became interested in this topic after observations I made during a trip to Provo River. Many
studies have shown this general relationship between the flow and growth in the river. In my
nature experience I chose to specifically look at the effect on algae. To carry out my experiment
I used four tiles at different locations in the Provo River with varying current velocities. At the
end of each week I weighed the amount of algae that had grown on each tile to see if there was a
pattern to where the most algae had grown or a relationship between the two factors. As I
collected my results I found that the most algae was grown at the relatively slower velocities as
I predicted. My findings also fit in with the other primary research I was able to find. My
experiment did not yield a large amount of results but my observations generally supported my
hypothesis indicating that a slow current velocity is a factor of growth.
Key Words: Current, Algae, Growth, River
Determining a Correlation Between Size of Birds and Size of Flocks During
Migration
Laura Marie Sederberg, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah,
84602
Email: laura.sederberg@gmail.com
Abstract
Different species of birds seem to enjoy different sizes of migrating flocks, but I
had a question as to whether or not there was a linear pattern to the particular caliber of
birds each flock traveled with based on the size of bird. I had suspicions that the smaller
birds would travel in larger groups because flying can be hard work and the purpose of
flying in a flock is to conserve energy and travel faster. On a triweekly basis, I went to
two locations. One location was near the mouth of Provo Canyon and the other close to
Utah Lake. There I took notes on nine different species as well as number of birds in
their different flocks that flew by. At the end of a month, I made a comparison of the
size of birds with the number of birds in the flock. My discoveries were generally the
opposite of what I assumed I would find. The larger birds were the ones in larger flocks
and the smaller birds flew in smaller numbers.
Keywords: migration, flock size, birds, fall.
Tree Distribution: Does elevation have the greatest effect
Bonnie Shumway, 265 E 200 N #23, Provo, Utah, 84606. Email:
einnobnivloc@gmail.com. Phone number: (480)440-7446
Abstract
The mountains and valleys surrounding the Provo area house many different
types of trees. Yet, the distribution of these trees throughout is not even. This study
attempted to look at what various factors make some areas more habitable to certain
types of trees. It was hypothesized that elevation would be the most determining factor
in tree distribution. In particular, this experiment tested the type and family of trees
within four distinct areas in order to determine factors that affect the trees’ ability to
thrive and thus examine distribution. The factors that were tested include elevation,
temperature, the availability of water, and undergrowth.
Keywords: tree distribution, elevation, Rocky Mountains, undergrowth, temperature,
water availability.
Duration of Cut flowers: Bellis perennis, Rosa, Dianthus caryophyllus
J. Simons, 380N 1020E Apt 325 Provo, UT 84606, Email: jessicasimons@cox.net
Abstract:
I tested Bellis perennis, Rosa, Dianthus caryophyllus flowers to see which
would have a longer vase life. The variables I observed were wilting and browning
of the petals. They were observed for a total of 2 weeks, during which time I
analyzed daily. Once all of the results were taken, I concluded that the catyophyllus
(carnation) lasted longest when observing both the wilting and browning of the
flower petals.
Keywords: Flower, Rose, daisy, carnation, time, wilting
The effect that the pH of soil has on the types of plants that grow in the different pH levels in
the Provo area: Provo, Utah, USA
Katie M. Sirstins, 12 Bowen Hall, Provo, Utah 84604: Email: crazykatie2010@comcast.net
Abstract
This experiment tested to see if pH affects the types of plants that grow in different pH
levels. Three different plants were selected and soil was taken from the base of these plants. To
find the pH of the soil, a sample of each soil was mixed with distilled water and pH strips were
dipped into the supernatant (the liquid above the settled soil) of this mixture. The results
showed that different plants do indeed require different pH levels in order to have their optimum
living conditions met. These results are compatible with the experiments done by other
researchers and scientists.
Keywords: pH, soil, plants, alkaline
Comparison of the Construction of Bird Nest’s at Different Altitudes
Matthew D. Smith, 29 Broadbent Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
smitty39210@yahoo.com
Abstract
The temperature of a clutch of bird eggs during the incubation period
must be within a certain range of temperature at all times for the bird to grow correctly
and be healthy. In order to maintain this temperature, the nest must be built correctly
and be adaptive to the surrounding environment of the bird. I located bird nests of the
same species at around 1400m, 1500m, 1600m. I also documented, measured, and took
pictures of the nests that I found. This was all done on the same day. From the
evaluation of this data, I was able to confirm whether or not the nests of differing
elevations varied from each other. I performed the studies at Rock Canyon in Provo,
Utah. I observed that the first and third nests that I found were almost identical, and the
middle elevation nest was a little bit different although it did have some similarities
with the other two. I also found that the materials used to build these nests, the
placement of the nest, the size, and the design were all fairly similar. One difference
was the temperature at the three locations. However, my data was not extremely
conclusive. The elevation difference between my nests I don’t think was large enough.
Even with this setback though, I was able to identify several things that the birds had
done to help insure warmth to their eggs. Some of these techniques include positioning
the nest on a specific side of the tree and towards the top of the tree, and using materials
known to insulate better than other materials.
Key Words: Bird nests, elevation, temperature, design, site preference
Length of Days affecting the leaf pigmentation on a Box Elder tree (Acer: Negundo)
In Provo, Utah, U.S.A
Tyler F. Smith, 3216 Helaman Halls, Building 9, Provo, Utah 84604
Email: Tlrsmith11@gmail.com
Abstract
The length of the days as the leaves change color gets progressively shorter. This
phenomenon seems to have a correlation. Therefore, an experiment is conducted to
determine whether or not there is truly a parallel. The data is collected from a location
near the Provo River. The specific tree that is being observed during this experiment is a
Box Elder tree. A rough estimate is given to determine the percentage of leaves on the
tree that are not green anymore and a description is provided as to the intensity of the
change.
The length of that particular day is recorded to be used in comparing the
number of daylight hours and the percentage of leaves that have changed color. The
change in the color of the Box Elder tree’s (Acer: Neguno) leaves was initiated much
later and changed at a much slower rate than that of other trees. Multiple rationales as to
why this occurred are addressed. Results show that the Box Elder tree’s leaf
pigmentation held their green color until the length of the day shortened to about
Keywords: chlorophyll; Length of Day; leaf pigmentation; photosynthesis; Autumn
Analysis of Water Content Effect on Changing Leaf Pigmentation in Five Species of
Trees in Provo, Utah
Jennie Smithson, 1505 N Canyon Rd. Apt. 98, Provo, UT, 84604
E-mail: gummiebear2913@elmore.rr.com
Abstract
The purpose of this experiment was to measure the water content in leaves of
varying trees. Five different leaf samples from the Provo, Utah area were weighed,
baked to evaporate water, and weighed again. The loss of weight at the second
measurement constitutes the amount of water that evaporated. It was hypothesized that
the leaves which were darkest green in color would have the most water content, and
leaves which were most yellow/brown in color would have the least. It was found that
the Quaking Aspen leaves tested highest in water content out of all the samples. Trends
were seen between water content and pigmentation of leaf, but these trends were not
strong enough to deem my hypothesis correct.
Keywords: leaves, water content, drought, deciduous, English hawthorn (Crataegus
Laevigata), European Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Eastern Hopohornbeam (Ostrya
Virginiana), Carolina Poplar (Populous x Canadensis), Quaking Aspen (Populus
Tremuloides)
Water Influence on Christ’s Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja christii) on Mount Harrison:
Cassia County, Idaho, USA
Rachelle Snow 1849 N 200 W Apt. 206, Provo, UT 84604 Email:
rachelle.snow@comcast.net
Abstract
I went to Mount Harrison in Cassia County, Idaho and collected soil samples on
the north side of the mountain and the south side of the mountain near the specimen
Christ’s Indian Paintbrush (Catilleja christii). I did this because there are more
specimen found on the north side than on the south side. I wanted to know if this
relationship was because of the moisture content in the soil. I found the moisture
content in each sample by baking them and finding the percentage of water displaced in
the weight. I found that the soil from the north side of the mountain had more moisture
in it than the soil from the south side of the mountain.
Keywords: Christ’s Indian Paintbrush, Casilleja christii, moisture content, soil.
Aquatic macro invertebrates’ variation as found in various water types
Boman Stacey, 1565 N. University Ave. #135, Utah 84604, Email:
boman.b.stacey@gmail.com
Abstract
All living organisms depend on water for survival. It can be assumed that in
coming upon a source of water life will be found. To find the variation of aquatic
macro invertebrates from differing sources of water, this experiment was done and
completed in three different sources of water: Provo River, Utah Lake, and Bridal Veil
Falls in Provo Canyon. I first captured, identified, numbered, and compared the aquatic
invertebrates to the other varying water sources’ species. The organisms in each water
type are dependent upon each other and its environment. Due to the change in
environment between water types, it can be assumed and easily predicted that organisms
will change and differences will be present. I then conducted and recorded the
information on what was different and why those certain organisms lived ideally in that
environment it was found in. It was found that aquatic macro invertebrates were indeed
different from one type of water source to the next; it was also found that the species
that were similar to all three sources were different in the number of species that were
present. Certain water types presented an environment that was more habitable to a
certain invertebrate, thus the number of that species was greater than in other water
types. Through my observations, results were found and conclusions were made.
Key words: Aquatic Macro Invertebrate, Provo River, Utah Lake, Bridal Veil Falls,
water flow, freshwater biomes, ecosystems
How the effect of the different water flows of the Provo River affect the growth of algae
Taylor Stacey, 1217 Taylor Hall, Provo, Utah 84604. Email: tattorstots.251@gmail.com
Abstract
Algae is considered one of the most vigorous organisms on earth because they
are able to grow in a vast range of habitats. They usually are found to grow in aquatic
environments such as bodies of water and in damp places. This experiment was
conducted in the Provo River with emphasis in three specific areas; hard, moderate, and
still water. In each of these three places, I placed couple of tiles to grow algae, which
was tested over a period of five and a half weeks. This experiment was originally
hypothesized to demonstrate how the different water flows of the river affects the
growth of algae, however it demonstrated even more. Not only is algae known to grow
in aquatic environments, but other living organisms, such as snails, “grow” in hard,
moderate, and still water. The data indicated that algae grew quicker and appeared more
in the still moving water because of the constant sunlight, causing photosynthesis. The
data also indicated that the appearance of snails happened more in still water. Further
discussions of possible reasons and explanations to my results will be presented.
Keywords: Algae, Aquatic Habitats, Snails, Water Flow, Photosynthesis
Birds’ seed color preferences in Provo, UT, USA
Taylor Street, 126 Robison Hall, Provo, UT, 84604 Email: tearitup2010@hotmail.com
Abstract
Birds, unlike humans are tetrachromats and pentachromats; they see color
differently than humans do, and many species can see into the ultraviolet range. How
birds’ color vision affects their eating habits has been studied a fair amount of times,
and different researchers have come up with various answers. Some say that birds tend
to prefer red foods, some say birds tend to prefer blue and purple foods because of their
ability to see in the ultraviolet range, and others say that birds prefer natural-looking,
earth-toned foods. I did an experiment using bird seed sorted by both color and size to
see what color of seeds birds gravitated toward. After completing three trials of my
experiment, I found that birds overwhelmingly preferred naturally-colored black seeds,
as well as yellow and purple seeds. I also found that birds do not have a particular
affinity for red seeds or green seeds. The results of my study agree with several
researches and, for various reasons, disagree with two other researchers.
Keywords: “bird color vision,” “bird seeds,” “bird eating habits,” “bird eating
preferences,” “birds color preferences”
Soil moisture retention at differing climates; This experiment was done
on Buchloe Dactyloides, Abies Balsamea, and no vegetation at two
different depths to determine potential difference in moisture levels.
Sarah Elizabeth Sturzenegger, 669 East 800 North Apartment S103, Provo, Utah, 84606
Email: sarahsturz@msn.com
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to discover whether or not altitude had an impact on the
amount of water retained by soil. I approached this hypothesizing that as you got higher up in
elevation there would be a higher content of water in the soil. I gathered samples from three
different elevations. The first was in Provo valley at approximately 1387 m elevation, the
second was up Provo Canyon at South Park at about 1585 m elevation, and the last one was
even further up Provo Canyon at Vivian park at about 1850 m elevation. I attempted to
maintain the same variables with which each soil sample was obtained. From each elevation I
obtained samples from three sources: Buffalo grass (Buchloe Dactyloides),Balsam fir (Abies
Balsamea), and an area with no vegetation. I took a sample from each of these elevations of the
top soil as well as 10 cm deep to see if there was a difference in depth with each plant as stated
by Yuksek (2009). By doing this I was hoping to retrieve more accurate data for each elevation
to identify if there was a trend as you increased in elevation. I also checked the weather channel
for each area and found that there had not been precipitation in any of these areas for at least
seven days. In analyzing my data, I discovered that there was no significant change of water
retention in soil due to elevation change. There was however a slight decrease of water
retention in soil as you increased in elevation. It was found however that Abies Balsamea had,
on average, more water retention than the other plants. I found that vegetation does play an
important role in the amount of water to be found in the surrounding soil particularly on the top
soil. At 1585 m for the areas with no vegetation as well as the Abies Baslamea, there was a
significant amount of water retention in the soil. There seems to be a higher impact for water
retention in soil due to the vegetation surrounding it rather than in elevation.
“The Unique Polymorphic Characteristics of Cladecera and the Effects of the Ratios of
Large Zooplankton (Cladecera) to Small Zooplankton (Copepods) on the Productivity
of Utah Lake.”
by: Mick Swenson
Abstract:
While preparing to study the varied species of algae in Utah Lake, my attention
was drawn towards the tiny, microscopic bugs that were invisible to the eye upon first
glance, but were very abundant in each sample of algae taken from the surface of the
water. I was led to ask “What are these little creatures, and what are they doing at the
surface in the middle of Utah Lake?” So, because of a serendipitous experience at Utah
Lake, I chose to identify some of the specific species of Zooplankton in Utah Lake and
study the magnitude of their impact on fresh-water ecosystems. The two types of
Zooplankton that I found at Utah Lake were Cladocera and Copepods. Although these
tiny species are often overlooked and rarely thought of, their impact on fresh-water
ecosystems is perhaps more important than that of any other fresh-water living
organism (algae excluded). My study of Zooplankton led to discoveries relating to
fresh-water food webs and natural selection.
Keywords:
Cladocera, Zooplankton, Copepod, Polymorphism, Fresh-Water, Ecosystem
Changes in the diversity of terrestrial invertebrates depending on rain and
temperature
Rachel Tantillo, 3118 Stover Hall, Provo, Utah, 84604. Email: rltantillo@aol.com
Abstract
I determined the change in diversity in the terrestrial invertebrate along a trail on
the Provo River depending on the presence of rain and changes in temperature. I used
two different techniques: the pitfall trap and a bowl of soapy water. Both techniques
were used in order to collect a variety of terrestrial invertebrates for data. The pitfall
trap yielded a consistent diversity of terrestrial invertebrates regardless of the
temperature or the amount of rainfall that was present. The soapy water dish yielded a
larger diversity of terrestrial invertebrates overall, specifically during rainfall. Based on
my observations I determined that the diversity of terrestrial invertebrates in a specific
environment increases and they are more active during rainfall and also during cooler
temperatures.
Keywords: Terrestrial invertebrate diversity, rainfall, temperature, chill-coma
temperature, pitfall trap, soapy water dish
Determining how tropism affects growth in Betula papyrifera
Nathan Tate, 1505 N. Canyon Rd. #123, Provo, UT 84606, Email: nathantate88@gmail.com
Tropism describes how the physical surroundings affect the growth of plants. In this
study, I attempted to group Betula papyrifera according to the way they were structured and
their surroundings in order to learn some kind of correlation. I grouped them into three groups:
those that grew straight up, those that leaned a little, and those that grew horizontally with a
bend upwards. On steep inclines, more trees grew horizontally bending upwards, whereas on
level ground, the trees generally grew straight upwards. I understood this to mean that
gravitropism causes the bending shapes in the trees on the side of the hill. However, this study
also considers other factors which make this problem a lot harder than it seems.
Keywords: Phototropism; gravitropism; geotropism; tree growth; auxin; autotropism;
autostraightening.
The factors that allow Blue Spruce trees to thrive under harsh conditions and all year round in
Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Nicole Turco, 1222 Taylor Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: Nikkit327@aol.com
Abstract
Evergreen trees are able to stay green all year round, unlike their leaf-losing fellow
trees. This phenomenon must be because of some biological feature within these trees. In order
to better understand how evergreens (Blue Spruce specifically) are able to stay green the entire
year, I first considered all the factors that could produce such an effect; location, roots, or the
structure of needles seemed to be the most probable cause. Observations will be conducted at
Provo Canyon, Y Mountain, and Sundance to verify whether location is a factor. These results
will be collected, and if location is not the reason, additional research will be done to figure out
whether root structure or the structure of needles is the reason.
The Effects of Varying Water Speed on Biological Diversity in the Provo River: Provo,
Utah, U.S.A.
Kaitlyn C. Turner, 1886 N 80 W Apt. 13, Provo, Utah, 84604 Email:
kaitt_1@hotmail.com
Abstract
In a river ecosystem, the water chemistry, which includes the oxygen levels, is
affected by the velocity of the water. The faster moving the water is the more dissolved
oxygen it can potentially hold because it is diffused from the surrounding air and
aerated as the water moves. Further research was required to determine how much water
velocity affects the differing amounts of various species, or biological diversity in a
river ecosystem. Experiments were conducted to test whether or not water velocity has
any effect on the biological diversity of macro invertebrates in the Provo River. Four
specific locations were selected and water speed was measured. Specimens were
collected from a one-meter radius of the different selected spots. Specimens were
identified and classified into species. Biological diversity will be plotted against water
velocity and their correlation will be analyzed. The locations selected to conduct the
experiment were specifically picked for their varying speeds. This study is isolated to
moving water only because the Provo River does not have any sections that are
completely stagnant. The faster moving water actually had less biological diversity than
the slow moving water. The faster the water moved the less biological diversity it had.
Keywords: dissolved oxygen levels, macro invertebrates, water speed, biological
diversity
The Effects of Natural Disturbance on Nesting Habits of Ants (Hymenoptera:
Formicidae) in Rock Canyon: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Brian Vandenberg, 2002 Budge Hall, Provo, Utah 84604
Email: brianvandenbergsmail@gmail.com
Abstract
Ants (Formicidae) are particularly good nest builders, but it was unknown how
committed they were to remain in their established nest after the event of substantial
natural disturbance occurred. I conducted experiments with local ant nests of Solenopsis
richteri, or fire ants, near trees in Rock Canyon to observe ant behavior after the
simulated natural disturbance of a branch dropped from tree height onto the ant nest. I
identified and charted the nests according to the ants’ behavior, and it was observed that
the natural disturbance of a tree branch falling on the nests of S. richteri was not severe
enough for them to relocate.
Keywords: adaptation, relocation, rebuild, arthropods
The Consumption of Sugar and Its Role Among Bees (Apoidea: Anthophila) in
Various Parts of Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Jerry Walker, 258 E. 300 North, Provo, UT 84606 Email: jerryeatworld@gmail.com
Abstract
The behavior of bees (Anthophila), when it comes to being attracted to either a
scent or food, appears to be affected by the level of sweetness that is contained in the
substance. However, more research can be undertaken to determine if there is, in fact, a
distinct correlation between the bees’ choice of where to land and feed, and the glucose
and/or sucrose levels in the foods. Experiments will be conducted in various parts of
Provo with the local species of bees to reveal whether bees actually are attracted to
sweeter foods. The bees will be identified and counted, and the proportion of bees
choosing sweet foods to those choosing less sweet foods will be measured and taken as
a rough indicative sample of the general population.
Keywords: bees, honey, sugar, sweetness, watermelon
Nature Experience abstract is attached to this email. If it fails to open it is also below:
Leaves Changing Color with Sugar.
Laina Walker, 485 E 500 N #14 Provo, Utah 84606. laina.marie@hotmail.com
Abstract
I predicted the possible color change of three different types of leaves, three different colors.
Based on my knowledge and findings of the effects of sugar in leaves changing color, I
hypothesized that by putting the stems of the leaves in sugar water, the colors of the leaves
would change more red or purple. My findings were contradictory to my hypothesis and did not
change their color to red or purple, but led to other findings. The leaves that were in the cup
with the most sugar, wilted the least. In fact, the sugar seemed to preserve their color and form.
However, they did not produce the results that I was initially looking for.
Keywords: leaves, color change, sugar
The Effect of Temperature and Time on the Chirp of Male Field Crickets (Gryllus
pennsylvanicus) Near the Provo River: Provo, Utah U.S.A.
Tenli Waters, 942 North University Avenue Apt. 24, Provo, Utah 84604 Email:
tenliwaters@gmail.com
Abstract:
The chirp or trill of field crickets (Gryllus pennsylvanicus) is used to attract a
mate. Male crickets chirp, and females choose a mate because of his song. The number
of times a male cricket chirps is directly related to the temperature of the air around
him. Warmer temperatures tend to increase the frequency of chirps and shorten the
length of a trill, while cooler temperatures cause the frequency to drop and the length to
increase. The time of day is also related to the song; near sunrise and sunset is usually
when crickets chirp. I tested to see whether this assumption of a correlation between
temperature, time of day and frequency of trills was true. I went to the Provo River by
800 North and listened to a cricket chirp and counted the number of chirps in one
minute. Then I listened to a different cricket and counted the number of times it chirped
in one minute. I recorded the number of chirps and the time, then recorded the
temperature from a thermometer.
Keywords:
Crickets, temperature, time, calling song, chirp.
The Colors of My Mind
Annie Webb 25 S 3110 W Provo, UT 84601 annielamae@gmail.com
Abstract: I have always been intrigued by Imagination Roses, (tie-dye roses). They are
incredible creations that are surreal. I started wondering how they are grown or created. The
goal of this project is to discover if the properties of flowers can be changed by manipulation.
Imagination roses (tie-dye roses) are artificially manufactured by injecting dye. I wanted to see
if I could replicate the process by injecting dye into seeds of flowers and watering them with
colored water.
Key Words: Dye, grow, manipulate
ABSTRACT
In this experiment, samples of water were taken from different water sources
around Provo. These sources included rivers, ponds, ditches, and snow. After collected,
the pH of each sample was tested to find which source had the safest water to drink.
Originally the pH was expected to differ from body of water to another based on
cleanliness, but the results showed other reasons for pH differences. The results told us
that pH does not differ from flowing water to still water, or clear water to muddy water,
but it in fact differs from where that body of water is coming from. The water all had
the same pH (7), but the snow had a pH of 6.
Habitual adaptations of Western-Scrub Jay
(Aphelocoma Californica) to freezing temperatures in
Rock Canyon, Provo, UT
Matthew A. Widmer, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo,
UT, 84602
Email: Mweidmer@gmail.com
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify any habitual adaptations of the Western ScrubJay (Aphelocoma Californica) that are advantageous in surviving freezing temperatures. The
Western Scrub-Jay does not migrate, and winters in freezing temperatures. I studied a small
population in Rock Canyon, Provo, Utah during the seasonal transition from autumn to winter.
Through two weeks of observation, I identified seven characteristics that allow the jays to
survive in freezing temperatures.
Keywords: Western-Scrub Jay, freezing temperatures, food sources, food stashing, episodic
recall.
Patterns of leaf pigment change in Populus tremuloides trees in Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
Kristen Wilberg, 2114 N 170 W Apt 245, Provo, UT 84604 Email:
smarties7777777@yahoo.com
Abstract
Every fall, leaves begin to change color based on the changes in environmental factors.
The shortened days and decrease in temperatures causes the amount of chlorophyll in leaves to
be decreased. The manner in which the leaves change follows a pattern. Observations of leaf
pigment change in Populus tremuloides trees were performed bi-weekly for five weeks,
detailing the amount of the tree’s leaves that had begun to change and the amount of color
change on a leaf. The data was compiled to determine the patterns that the leaves change. The
outer leaves on the trees were the first to show different coloration. The color change on the
leaves began with the outer edges and moved inward toward the center of the leaf. These
patterns are created due to the transport of chlorophyll in the fall. Due to a decrease in
chlorophyll, this pigment is not plenty enough to reach the outer parts of the tree and the outer
edges of the leaves.
Keywords: Cartenoid; senescence; chlorophyll; color; patterns.
Plants at the elevation level of Park City, Utah are different from plants at the elevation
level of Provo, Utah crediting plant differences due to altitude
Justin Wilson, 2208 Merrill Hall Provo, Utah 84604, jtwilson25@yahoo.com
Abstract
There are many different plants around the globe. These changes are due to many
reasons but I chose to analyze the different characteristics and types of plants that
existed at different elevation levels. Many believe that latitude is one of the only reasons
that plants change. To discredit this idea I examined plants from a latitude of
40.2338889 (Provo, Utah) to 40.6460622 (Park City, Utah). These tests and samples
were taken in Provo, Utah which lies at around 4,500 feet above sea level, and Park
City, Utah which lies at about 8,500 feet above sea level. I went to these different
locations to observe the differences in plants, their thickness and transparency, if the
leaves were still on the trees, the moisture of the soil and materials that were in it, the
size of the leaves, and how dry the plants were. To do this I used a knife, spoons, ruler,
and plastic bags. I found in this experiment that everything was much more moist at
higher altitudes.
Keywords
Moisture, altitude, leaves, soil, oxygen
Comparison of occurrence frequency of bark damage in
Acer specimens at different altitudes on the Wasatch Front
Eliza Woolley, 297 E. 3140 N., Provo, Utah 84604. Email: elizacw@byu.net
Abstract
The effect of elevation was investigated on bark stripping on maple trees in the Provo
Canyon area. Rough squares with sides of approximately 25 feet were measured at three
different elevations, two squares in each area. The number of trees within these borders and the
number of trees with bark problems were recorded and percentages of damaged trees calculated,
ranging from zero to thirty-three percent. All but four of the damaged trees had significant
cracking or stripping in many places on the tree at all heights, but no teeth marks were noticed,
ruling out the possibility of deer and squirrel damage. Possible causes of the strippage include
pests and environmental factors such as temperature changes; however, elevation does not
appear to be a factor at the scale measured (<2000 feet).
Keywords: maple, sycamore, elevation, bark loss, sickness, population, peeling, stripping,
worm, Acer, North American trees.