How altitude and latitude affect configuration of biomes in Southern Arizona and Central Oregon
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Water Temperature and Its Affect on Duck MigrationAlicia Davis, 1565 N University Ave Apt. 119, Provo, UT 84604, email: aliciadavis415@gmail.com Abstract: The Purpose of this study is to determine the correlation between duck migration and water temperature. I studied the relationship of water temperature and duck migration by weekly observing and recording the number of ducks at Utah Lake and the average water temperature. In order to determine the Lake’s average temperature, using a thermometer, I observed where the ducks mostly congregated and took two water temperature samples in that area of the Lake. From these two temperatures, I calculated the average temperature. I calculated migration by counting the number of ducks in the lake and comparing the changes over a 5-week period. I measured water temperature and counted duck density once a week for five weeks. Based on my results there is little or no relationship between the water temperature of Utah Lake and the migration of the local ducks. Key Words: duck migration, temperature, habitat. Water Purity in Relationship to the Altitude and amount of algae in American Fork Canyon: American Fork, Utah, U.S.A. Brian W. Davis, 900 East, Heritage Halls, Snow Hall, Apt. 131 Provo, Utah 84606 Email: brianatbyu@gmail.com Abstract The Purity in water varies as it travels downstream in a river. Experiments were done in American Fork canyon testing the river at four various altitudes and one pond test for its water purity in the forms of its electrical conductivity (EC) and the amount of algae per rock; Algae being part of the algal group, being a polyphyletic with many different scientific classifications. (P. Gualtieri 2005) The water was tested at various altitudes by using an (EC) tester and by using an altimider to know of the altitude of the river and pond being tested. I also did visual estimates of the amount of algae per rock in each area. This experiment was able to show how great an influence the altitude or distance from the source of a river has on water purity. The results showing an increase of salts and ions in the water as it went downstream with a 358 (EC) rating at an altitude of 1,850 meters above sea level, and a 506 (EC) rating at 1,600 meters. The pond test did not follow the river results and was calculated with a 350 (EC) rating at an altitude of 1,820 meters. The amount of algae per rock increased as it went downstream with an average of 18% of each rock being covered by algae at 1,850, and an average of 38% of each rock being covered at 1,600 meters. The pond once again did not follow river results and stuck out with an average of 79% of each rock being covered by algae. The algae results might be slightly inconsistent due to different variables such as amount of sun light, flow of stream, and position of the rock. Keywords: Electrical conductivity, water purity, algae, American Fork Canyon.
Ciera E. Davis, 420 East 600 North, Provo, Utah. Email: ciera_d6@hotmail.com Abstract The feeding, foraging and eating habits of Ring-billed gulls (Larus delawarensis) is documented in areas around the United States, primarily in areas where they breed. Documentation of the diet of western populations of this gull is available but it is not specific to their eating habits in Utah County. Observations of early morning feeding habits and behaviors will be examined in adult Ring-billed gulls (Larus delawarensis) in Utah County. Observations began in October 2008 and concluded on November 29, 2008. Observation sites included (1) two fields around Brigham Young University Campus, the outdoor track field and the outdoor baseball field, (2) three farm fields in west Provo (3) various parking lots around fast food restaurants, Brigham Young University and shopping malls in Provo and Orem and (4) the Utah county dump in Lindon. Observation times began between 7:15 and 8:00 am and continued until 9:30 am. In addition to speculating on the type of food the gulls obtained at different sites, observations of their behavior are documented. Key words: aggressive behavior; communal behavior; large group; small group
Landon B. Davis, 130 Wymount Terrace Provo, UT 84604 Email: landonbdavis@gmail.com Abstract It is common knowledge that Honeybees are attracted to a variety of colorful aromatic flowers that produce pollen and nectar; but further research is required to determine why this is so. Bees are often seen swarming around the food tables at outdoor activities in search of close substitutes for the life-sustaining staples necessary to their diets. This incident is especially common around summertime picnics and outdoor barbeques. Thus, experiments were conducted to determine what key ingredient primarily attracts bees to foreign food sources over the typical pollen or nectar found in flowers. Observations were made over the space of two weeks which provided the necessary data to conclude that Honeybees are primarily attracted to the sugar content in foods, rather than to other key nutritional staples such as salt, flour, oatmeal, and baking soda.
The Effect Leaf Size has on the Speed of Changing Leaf Colors in Rock Canyon Park: Provo, Utah, U.S.AWhitney Day, 186 Fugal Hall, Provo, Utah 84062 E-mail: whitday18@yahoo.com AbstractFor this study, I focused on whether the size of the leaves had an effect on the speed of their color change in the fall. To find out whether the size was a factor in how fast the leaves changed, I observed the following three trees, which each have a varying leaf size from extra large to incredibly small, respectively: English Walnut, Quercus gamelii Nutt (Gambel Oak), and Amelanchier alnifolia (Western Juneberry). For six weeks I went to Rock Canyon Park and observed these three trees to watch how fast their leaf colors changed. After going through and putting the data that I collected, I came to the conclusion that the size of the leaf does not have an effect on how fast it changes colors in the fall. Keywords: size of leaves, color change, speed, time The Migration of Birds through the State of Utah Paige Dewey, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo Utah 84604, Email: paigenikky@hotmail.com Abstract: The purpose of this paper was to observe and analyze different species of birds and their behaviors. Through observations it was discovered that not many birds were active during the cold weather. After this observation the purpose was changed to looking into the migrations of different species throughout the state. This paper will explore various aspects of migration such as why birds migrate, when they migrate, and specific migration patterns within the state of Utah. Migration will be explored through analysis and discussion of all of its contributing parts. Keywords: migration, cold weather, flight patterns
S. Paul Dickson, Department of Biology, Brigham Young University Email: kofidickson@gmail.com 564 West 600 North Apt. 8, Provo, Utah 84601 Abstract Test were conducted in a small cove off of Utah Lake, the test area is highly populated with mosquitoes. I set out to determine which mosquitoes bite because I noticed that only certain mosquitoes were biting me. After preliminary tests, it was discovered that only female mosquitoes suck the blood of humans. All mosquitoes use plant nectar and sugar water to survive but the female collect blood for nourishment during pregnancy. This led me to wonder if the female mosquitoes were solely attracted to the blood of humans or if the blood of animals would also provide the needed sustenance. After field tests and research it is concluded that mosquitoes suck both humans and animal blood. Further test showed the conditions the mosquitoes are most active in which is damp, warm climates. Research was also done on how mosquitoes transmit diseases. Key words: Mosquitoes, biting, blood, uses Thermal and Seasonal Influences on Population and Diversity of Bugs in Provo Canyon: Provo, Utah, U.S.A. Michelle T. Drennan, 2115 Taylor Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: MichelleDthatsme89@yahoo.com Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to track the population of insects and bugs in relationship to the decreasing temperature and amount of sunlight over the course of three months. Previous studies have shown that bugs that do not migrate during the winter season have adapted their own ways of facing the cold—usually by hibernating or nesting in protective areas. This causes the general population to be lower during the winter. Experiments were conducted in Provo Canyon with local bugs found under specific as well as random rocks. The current temperature, amount of bugs found, as well as recognizable species, were recorded with each data-collecting visit. The hypothesis matched the resulting data which showed that as temperatures decreased, the number and diversity of bugs decreased as well. Key words: temperature, freeze avoidance, adaptation Adaptation of Feeding Patterns in Rocky Mountain Mule Deer Eliza L. Durrant, 2204 Chipman Hall, Provo, UT 84604 Email: edurrant@byu.net Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the adaptations of feeding patterns of Rocky Mountain Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus hemionus) (see figure 2) throughout the changing of seasons. Mule deer are known to be adaptive animals with an impressive ability to survive the long, cold, and harsh Utah winters. A herd of deer were observed three nights a week for 8 weeks as the seasons changed from summer, to fall, and into the beginning of the cold winter. The data collected showed the ability of the Mule Deer to adapt their feeding patterns to available sources and prepare themselves for the coming months of scarce food. Observations and data collection were in conjunction with previous studies of Mule Deer which also determine the adaptive nature of these organisms. Keywords: Rocky Mountain Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus hemionus); adaptation; resource selection Favored Diets of Pronghorn Antelope (Antilocapra americana) in Roswell, New Mexico Ryan Egbert, 375 W 1720 N Apt 312, Provo, Utah, Email: ryan.egg@byu.net
Going down to Roswell, New Mexico, does not have a very appealing sound to it, except if you are an avid believer in aliens. After hearing about going down there for Thanksgiving, and hearing stories of the climate there and all the wild animals there, gears started turning in my head. Roswell, New Mexico, has a population of 45,582. But when you look at the surroundings you can tell there is much more living there. Pronghorn Antelope (Antilocapra americana) populate this area as well, and looking around at the vast desert surroundings all around, it is hard to see how these creatures survive. The only real food is some different desert shrubs, Tar bush (Flourensia cernua), and Creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), and some occasional grasses. Data indicates that Creosote bush is the preferred diet among the Pronghorn Antelopes population in Roswell. Keywords: Antilocapra americana, Flourensia cernua, Larrea tridentata, diet, Roswell Analysis of bird seed consumed in various locations around the Provo, Utah area Brendon Elwood, Undergraduate, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84604. Email: brendon_elwood@hotmail.com
For as long as I can remember, my grandma always had bird feeders all over her backyard. Whenever I would go visit her or spend the night at her house, she would always take me out back to watch the birds at the feeders. Needless to say, after many years of visits to my grandmother’s house, I became fairly acquainted with, and somewhat interested in bird feeders. Having never lived in Provo, UT before, I decided that it would be interesting to do an experiment to discover what species of birds were common to this area. I wondered if it would be possible to discover what kinds of species of birds were in the local area based on what kinds of bird seed would be most often eaten out of birdfeeders. I realized that there is no way that any evidence gathered from such an experiment could be one hundred percent conclusive, but I might be able to get a good start in hypothesizing what species of birds inhabited the local area based on observations of bird seed. Keywords: Bird Seed, Bird Watching, Bird Feeders Abiotic factors influencing leaf color change and fall in Narrow Leaf Cottonwood Trees (Populus angustifolia) in Kiwanas Park, Provo, Utah, U.S.A. Frances R. Flanigan, 58 Horne Hall, Provo, Utah, 84604 Email: rachflan@yahoo.com Abstract It is well documented that deciduous trees lose their leaves before winter. However, the effect that sunlight and temperature have on leaf color change on Narrow Leaf Cottonwood Trees (Populus angustifolia) is uncertain. In order to observe this leaf change many trips over a period of a month and a half were conducted to Kiwanas park. On each day of observance, three different Narrow leaf cottonwood trees were observed. For each trip, the average temperature, the high temperature, the low temperature, the time of sunrise, and the time of sunset was recorded. The experiment indeed demonstrates that the temperature and the amount of sunlight indeed have an effect on the rate of change of a Populus angustifolio. Key Words: Populus angustifolia, Precipitation, Sunlight, Temperature, Daylight
Jennifer S. Foote, 1505 N. Canyon Rd. Apt. 133, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: jfoote11@gmail.com Abstract The patterns of leaves differ in each tree, but research can reveal why these differences occur, what the advantages are for each diverse pattern and what the prominent leaf pattern is in Provo Canyon. Observations will be held six times in Provo Canyon through the months of September to November to note three different patterns of leaves, which trees are thriving, and which are dying first throughout the fall based on their different leaf patterns. Leaf patterns from various areas will be studied while the distance from the river and temperature are noted each time. Distance from the river, color, and fullness of the leaves will be plotted against the leaf patterns. The size, in inches, of the width and the length of each leaf will be recorded. Pictures will be taken at each visit to compare from September to November. The temperature and time of day will also be recorded. Key Words: leaves, patterns, diversity, temperature. Influence of Color and Smell on Choice of Food for Cyprinus Carpio (Common Carp) in Utah State Reservoirs. Spencer M. Gale, 2202 May Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: spencergale@hotmail.com Abstract Cyprinus carpio, common carp, were caught using lures of different colors and scents at two locations in Utah, Yuba Lake and Deer Creek Reservoir, repeating the same procedure at each location. The purpose of this experiment was to establish whether color or scent play a significant role in the choice of food of Cyprinus carpio. In the first phase of the experiment three poles, each with a different color lure, were placed in the water rotating positions regularly. Each Fish caught was weighed and recorded with the color of lure it was caught on; fish that were hooked, fought, then got away were recorded as well. This experiment suggested that red might be slightly favorable to white and blue because it was the most successful at both locations however only by one fish. Based on the small sample size and only slight difference in the number of fish caught on each color, color was ruled to be a statistically insignificant factor. Therefore, it must be determined that color does not play an important role in the feeding habits of the Cyprinus carpio. In the second phase only one color was used, red (the most successful in the first phase), however, each lure was given a different scent, a commercial fish attractor (Berkley PowerBait Attractant), vinegar, and none (control, no scent added). The poles were kept in the water for two hours, rotating pole positions and adding more scent at regular intervals. The commercial scent caught 83% more than the control while the control caught 100% more than the vinegar (fish that got away included, one Walleye fish not included). Despite the small sample size, the statistical difference suggests that scent plays a significant role in the eating habits of the Cyprinus carpio. Key Words: Cyprinus carpio, common carp, feeding habits, food, diet, color, smell, scent, olfactory
Laura M. Garcia. 1565 N. University Ave. appt. #15 Provo, UT 84604. Abstract: Birds around the world are each specifically designed to live in a particular area. Many, however, adapt to their allotted environment, later to grow up in a completely different and distinct place. Some adjust to diverse surroundings because of food, mating and weather conditions. In this study, different types of birds were observed to see where most of them were spending most of their time. A hypothesis was made that most of the birds would spend their time in the trees. According to the observations and results, the place where each bird spent its time depended on the species. Different birds were observed in one of the Provo River trails, in Provo, Utah. Another group of birds was observed at Provo Canyon Park, in Provo, Utah. A fourth group of birds was observed in the Mesa Arizona Temple grounds in Mesa, Arizona. While watching the birds, a journal was kept to record the date, place, temperature, colors, behaviors and other biological factors. Binoculars were also used to be able to see the exact movements and behavior of the birds. Keywords: adaptation, hypothesis, biological factors
Dallas J. Green, BYU Biology student, 1130 East 450 North Apt #87, Provo, Utah, 84606. Email: dallasgreen24@gmail.com Abstract Winter is a harsh time for vegetation to produce the nutrients needed for survival of omnivores in the state of Utah. So, as winter approaches us quickly, an observation will be done to observe how ground squirrels of Northern Utah, specifically in Mueller Park Canyon, distribute the work and preparation for winter’s difficulties. This task won’t be easily done due to the common ground squirrel of Utah, the Uintah Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus Armatus), begins to become less and less active in the open around late summer. I observed the squirrel population of a specific area three days a week, every other week for five weeks. I observed from approximately the same spot and at the same time. Through controlling these variables I was able to better learn the tasks at hand for that time of day and year. Through this research, I was able to better comprehend the wonders of nature and how they exist in the tiniest of creatures of the world. Keywords: Uintah Ground Squirrel, Spermophilus Armatus, winter, vegetation, Northern Utah
Brady S. Greenhalgh, 209 N. 1200 W. Apt. 302, Orem, Utah 84057 Email:beastieb311@gmail.com This report is a study of Mallards, Anas platyrhynchos, residing at the east bay reserve and the effect of different types of food upon the ducks behavior and overall attitude. The idea was to see if processed people food caused ducks to be more irritable or if it had no effect. Food suitable for mallards was obtained and set for the ducks close to their gathering areas. Also, food processed for humans was set out at a different location. The two groups of ducks were observed and their reactions noted. The study shows that ducks react the same to both types of food but an altogether new reaction was studied and that was the flight rape that male mallards inflicted upon other females of their group although Mallards are generally regarded as monogamous. Keywords: Mallards, Anas platyrhynchos, Necrophilia, Fighting, Feeding, Rape Influence of Temperature and Season Change on Sparrows (Passer Domesticus) at Kiwanis Park, Provo Canyon, and Utah Lake in Provo, Utah. Ahlin R. Griffith, 151 West 2170 North Apt. 266, Provo, UT 84604, Email: ahlin90@gmail.com Abstract It is well known that birds fly south for winter. Assumptions were made based on this fact. The expectations were that the observed population of birds (sparrows) in the chosen locations would decrease as the temperature/climate decreased. Also, it was thought that the number would decrease more abruptly, as opposed to gradually decreasing. At these locations- Kiwanis Park, Provo Canyon, and Utah Lake- it was observed each week for eight weeks if there was any change in population over the course of that time and if it had a correlation with the temperature. All that was needed, essentially, was a thermometer, a watch (to tell time), paper, and a pen. There was definite correlation between the amount of birds in the areas and the average temperature. Also, there seemed to be more birds at the park than at the mouth of the canyon or at the lake throughout the whole eight weeks. This might be due to warmer temperatures and/or other different outlying factors. Overall, when the temperature decreased, the number of birds at the different locations did as well. Keywords: sparrow population; passer domesticus; decreasing temperature; contrasting locations Predominant Leaf Arrangements in Provo and Surrounding Area Abby L. Gullerud, 469 N 300 E #4, Provo, UT 84606 Email: abby@gullerud.com
The three most common forms of leaf arrangement or phyllotaxis in the Provo area are, in order of prominence: the whorled pattern, alternate orientation, and opposite orientation. This study explores which of these is the most favored by vegetation in Provo and surrounding areas and uses research, evidence, and speculation to figure out why. Collected data suggests that the whorled pattern tends to be the most favored by plants in this area, and research and evidence suggest that the whorled pattern is favored because it allows for greater exposure of leaves to sunlight. Also, the kind of phyllotaxy preferred by a plant is influenced greatly by the plant's individual genetics and development. Key words: Phyllotaxis, leaf arrangement predominance, plants, Provo area How Caddisflies different architectural styles of their “saddle cases” may be beneficial over another type of design. Zachary Jon Haag, 167 W 2060 N Appt. 198, Provo Utah 84604. Undergraduate, Brigham Young University Email: haager_3@hotmail.com
The purpose of this study is to determine if one type of design is beneficial over another. The Caddisfly builds saddle cases, or houses that they live. Caddisflies belong to the Trichoptera order and are closely related to butterflies and moths (Caddisflies). The hypothesis that the structures the Trichoptera build differ in benefits was tested and researched. Analysis of benefits will be discussed. Key Words: Trichoptera, Caddisfly, Saddle Cases
Brad Hancock, 375 West 1720 North apt 212, Provo, Utah 84604 email: bhancock85@gmail.com A common weekend getaway or a casual barbecue with friends and family is a time to enjoy the outdoors, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. In even these most enjoyable moments, the persistent buzzing of mosquitoes and ineffective attempts to battle their bite can chase out this thrill of the outdoors. The dense population and availability of a blood meal can directly influence the growing colony of mosquitoes since female mosquitoes use such blood meal to provide proper nutrients to their eggs. Humans take drastic measures to eliminate and ward off the pesky creatures but often fall victim of itchy red bumps all over their bodies and in cases more severe become infected with deadly diseases that claim the lives of millions. In this report the relation blood meal availability and population density among mosquitoes is evaluated to better understand their behaviors and interactions with humans. Also shown are records collected of various locations in which mosquito behavior and population density was tested and observed concluding that mosquitoes thrive in a higher density of host blood meals. Key words: Mosquito, Ochlerotatus Increpitus, population, blood meal, reproduction, habitat.
Michael R. Hancock, 1505 N. Canyon Rd Apt 122, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: hancock_michael@yahoo.com Abstract The following is a study of the relation between bird populations and their relationship to trees on the Brigham Young University campus. The study is to look for trends in the location of birds in specific trees in the study area. The study area is largely composed of the natural areas on the southern end of the Brigham Young campus as well as some portions of the north-eastern side of campus. This experiment was taken over several weeks and focused only on birds present in the months of September and October. The birds and trees were identified and relationships drawn from this experiment. The main hypothesis of this experiment is that preferences will exist. The data, while only representing minimal observed species, did show a trend over time of preferences for specific trees. Discussion of the experiment will follow below. Key Words: Utah birds, Utah trees, habitat preference, Brigham Young University wildlife.
Cameron G. Hartmann, 105 North Daniels Drive, Batavia, Illinois, 60510 Email: CamHart73@gmail.com
The purpose of this study was to test which foods are favored among insects, and how the weather affects the number of insects found in Rock Canyon. All insects are counted and gathered, the size of the insect will have no place in the results of this experiment—each individual counts as one. Data was collected between October 2, 2008 and November 29th, 2008 a total of three times. A decrease in the number of insects found is likely to be directly correlated to the air temperature decreasing. A differing number of insects caught within each trap will show the popularity of each of the differing foods. The data indicates that out of raw chicken, corn, peanut butter, lettuce, and bananas peanut butter was the favored food. The data also shows that as the air temperature decreases, so does the number of insects found. Keywords: Insect, foods, temperature, fall, favored, amount, Rock Canyon. Effect of varying times of day on density and species of waterfowl Name and Address: Morgan Hawkes; mmhawkes@yahoo.com Abstract: This experiment was conducted for the purpose of determining whether or not density or species of waterfowl changes at different times of the day. Birds were observed at dawn and dusk in a single, unchanging location. The experiment took place at Lake Poway in San Diego, California. The results show, indeed, the number and quantities of birds varied at the different times of day. Key Words: waterfowl, density, species, birds Do ants prefer the taste of salts over sugar? Sarah Hiatt, 2108 N 120 W #291, Provo, Utah 84604. Email: sarie99@gmail.com.
Ants are very complex insects and can be researched in many different aspects of their lives. Ants have fascinated me for some time. When I was younger I would sit and watch ant hills and observe the ants coming to and leaving their homes. So, for my nature experience, I decided to observe ants and determine whether they preferred salts over sugars. I found through my research about this topic that sugar is an energy source for ants and salt is essential for survival to an ant's diet (Witmer, 1996). I also found that ants, which live near the ocean or another source of salt, take in less salt than sugar because of salt's abundance in their environment (Livescience, 2008). In my experiment I had three separate sites for my observations-grass, woods, and rocky areas. I put out three tablespoons of both salt and sugar on paper plates for the ants to eat. I then came back periodically and checked on the plates. I took note of how many ants were eating the salt and sugar at each site. I found that the most salt was eaten in the grass sites. Therefore, most ants in the Hurricane Valley of Utah ate the salt over the sugar. This is an extremely interesting experiment and was also very educational. My research proved to be consistent with my hypothesis, salt is preferred over sugar in an environment at least sixty miles away from the ocean for ants. Keywords: Ants, salt, sugar, proximity to a salt source The Influence of the Elements on the Positions of Various Vegetations in Rock Canyon: Provo, Utah, U.S.A.
David T. Hilton, 2413 Young Hall, Provo, Utah 84604 Email: hilton89@gmail.com. Abstract Vegetation is very resilient. Although there is ample evidence of violent storms tossing plants about, overall, the position of plants is very stable, regardless to the elements. Climate, whether as a sweeping global change or a simple seasonal change, is the main instigator for change in vegetation. The extremity and speed of the changes in climate correlate to the extremity and speed of the adaptations that plants undergo in order to survive the new climate. Without sweeping climactic changes, plants undergo very little real positional change as a result of the elements, even after violent rain and wind. Plants will often fluctuate around the same position, on either a daily or seasonal time-table.
Keywords: elements, vegetation, change, adapt, climate The Decomposition Rate of Quercus Leaves in the Vivian Park Stream Kayla Hilton, 1908 N. 40 W. #60, Provo, UT 84604, Kayhilton16@hotmail.com Abstract The purpose of this study is to observe the decomposition rates of Quercus leaves in a local Utah stream located in Vivian Park. Quercus leaves were selected because they are readily abundant in the surrounding Provo area and in Vivian Park; therefore, these leaves naturally fall into the surrounding streams. Two bunches of leaves were gathered from the same tree, at the same time, to ensure they were the same type and about the same density. The leaves were placed in the Vivian Park River and the decomposition rates were then measured for each bunch, for one month. The data shows an increasing decomposition rate for each bunch for the first three weeks. Then, in the fourth week, there is an actual increase in both bundles weight. Keywords: Leaves, Quercus, Oak, Decomposition, Utah, Vivian Park
William H. Hittle 1505 N. Canyon Rd. apt#103, Provo, UT 84604 william_hittle@hotmail.com |