A comparative evaluation of tree species in different geographical elevations in Provo, Utah

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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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

Abstract:

The reason and purpose for performing the study of observing the behavior of the ever-persistent 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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

Phone: [phone]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]
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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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: [e-mail]

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. [e-mail]

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.