Population dynamics in simple two-species experimental microcosms
Author(s): Christopher T. Ivey
California State University, Chico
1362 total view(s), 1031 download(s)
Summary:
A two-week exercise which includes homework calculations and teaching resources. Students establish brine shrimp and Platymonas algal cultures and predict final densities.
Contents:
BrineShrimp Culturing Tips.pdf(PDF | 22 KB)- Platymonas Culturing Tips.pdf(PDF | 32 KB)
- Trophic Chains - Homework.pdf(PDF | 11 KB)
- Trophic Chains - Week 1.pdf(PDF | 117 KB)
- Trophic Chains - Week 2.pdf(PDF | 70 KB)
- TrophicChains - Notes for Lab Instructors Week 1.pdf(PDF | 108 KB)
- TrophicChains - Notes for Lab Instructors Week 2.pdf(PDF | 34 KB)
- License terms
Description
This two-week exercise modified from Gibson (2018) and Hudson and Finnerty (2013) emphasizes how trophic interactions and other density-dependent phenomena may alter population growth or decline. In a "flipped" format, students are assigned videos and homework to introduce techniques and calculations required for class. Student groups establish replicated microcosms of known densities of Platymonas and brine shrimp and predict the impact of trophic interactions on final densities of each species. During the second week, groups evaluate predictions using statistical tests, and summarize findings.
Cite this work
Researchers should cite this work as follows:
- Ivey, C. T. (2018). Population dynamics in simple two-species experimental microcosms. Plants by the Numbers, QUBES Educational Resources. doi:10.25334/Q40M6T