Abiotic Factors
Group Members
In this week's laboratory exercise, we will visit local (on-campus) ecosystems and
carry out simple investigations of how light, temperature and moisture may
influence members of the local living communities. One important concept to
consider in these investigations is that of the "microhabitat" - highly localized
effects, including those of the "microclimate". When collecting data, consider the
importance of sample size, and the possible influence of factors other than those
under investigation (time of day, weather variability and season are just a few of the
“other” factors that may be important). All data should be recorded on the attached
data sheet and the data sheet submitted at the end of the lab period. Data from
this lab section and the other lab section will be combined. Methods for analysis
and data display using Excel will be demonstrated in next week’s lab session.
LIGHT AND TEMPERATURE
1. SITE DESCRIPTIONS
Briefly describe the physical setting of each site. How do they differ one from the
other? How might these differences affect microclimates?
2. TEMPERATURE RANGE
Maximum-minimum thermometers have been set up for 24 hours in different
settings around campus. For each of the sites, I will record the maximum and
minimum values (in °C) at ground level and 2 meters above ground level over the
next three days.
3. CURRENT TEMPERATURE
Using the thermometers provided, record the current temperature in the soil, at
ground level and at 2 meters above the ground.
4. LIGHT
Use light meters to measure the ambient light level at four points around the point
at which you recorded the soil temperature.
5. MOISTURE
Moisture meters allow relative comparison of moisture levels. Use these meters to
determine soil moisture at each of the points where you recorded light intensities.
Site Descriptions
Other “unmeasured” factor of importance
Table 1. Raw data for soil temperature, ground temperature, air temperature, soil
moisture and light from four sites adjacent to the Science Building.
Variable
Soil Temperature
Ground Temperature
Air Temperature
Soil Moisture
Light
Point 1
Point 2
Point 3
Point 4
Site 1
Site 2
Site 3
Site 4