Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Good Day Experts!

May you please suggest ideas for a very short research article (final requirement) that tackles on population ecology. I only have two months left to perform and write the report. Our teacher wants it to be experimental. My initial idea is to use fruit fly because they are faster to rear and can provide fast results. I want to subject a population/s to a specific parameter and see how would the population/s react (mortality? egg hatchability?...) . However, I am clueless yet on what parameter should I use. These are my options: altitude differences, herbal tea (I've read it this forum), temperature...

I am hoping that someone would help me. Thank you in advanced!

Gelo

Hi Gelo! Thanks for your question. Fruit flies are a smart pick for quick, experimental population ecology. If you want simple references, check out this Science Buddies experiment and adapt the idea to flies: https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... on-density This experiment shows how to test one factor and measure a population response which can possibly be applied to your fruit fly model. You can mirror those designs with fruit flies using temperature, light, or food changes and track hatch rate, survival, or adult counts. Good luck!



[Edited by administrator]

Hello Gelo,

Given that you say your written report is due within two months, the project suggested by the previous expert might be easier to meet your deadline.

You could select one (or two) types of plants, selecting those that germinate quickly and then use the density of the seeds planted as a model for the effect of population density. The project procedures describe several different measures that you could use to evaluate the effects of plant density.

Given your short time frame, maybe use plants as your topic this year and then use your results for a longer term project using fruit flies for next year. Just a suggestion!

Best of luck with whichever project and be sure to let us know if you have questions!

Madeline

Please note that the project recommended may be helpful as you think about how to structure your experiment and paper, but that project is for K-5 (elementary school) students. As a high school student, you will want to make sure your project is robust enough for your grade level and any requirements for your assignment.

Amy
Science Buddies