Project:

Effect of Introduced Flora on Biodiversity of Invertebrates

Students:

Katrina Too, Gina Nagib, Allison Wong

School:

Francis Lewis High School, Queens

Mentors:

Jessica Cohen

Abstract:

DNA Barcoding is the process of analyzing the DNA sequences of species. Previously, scientists used taxonomy keys to classify and discover new species. However, this method is unreliable and relies on physical characteristics, which are subject to change. In the courtyard of Francis Lewis High School, the gardening club will plant different flowers during the spring. It is hypothesized that the introduction of new flora will affect the biodiversity of invertebrates in the area by increasing the number of non-native species. To track the development of the area’s flora, the study will span for two years. DNA will be collected by gathering samples of invertebrates in the courtyard then compared to a taxonomic key to identify the species. The DNA will then be isolated, amplified using the PCR machine, and the PCR products will be analyzed using gel electrophoresis. The data collected will be analyzed using the program “DNA Subway” to determine if there are any novel sequences.

Poster:

Team samples: