Project:

DNA Barcoding in the Peconic River

Students:

Talia Wayrich, Anika Griffing, Kayla Bruno

School:

Eastport South Manor HS, Suffolk

Mentors:

Robert Bolen

Abstract:

Our goal is to identify the species in the Peconic river area and determine if any additional species not previously documented are present. We also are looking to see if there are indicator species which may help measure water quality and overall stability of the ecosystem. We believe that we are going to find macroinvertebrates that assist in controlling diseases and that are indicators of improving water quality. This will reduce the impact of disease carrying vectors on humans who live along the riverfront and use it for recreational purposes. Many measures have been put in place to improve the quality of the river ecosystem such as reducing fertilizer use, working to clear invasive weeds from the river, and reducing the dumping of wastes into the river.

Poster:

Team samples: