Project:

Investigating the Impact of Lanternfly Infestation on Native Plant DNA at the Garden City Bird Sanctuary

Students:

Elizabeth Melgar, Teresa Gregory, Emily Racich, Isabelle Denoto

School:

Garden City High School, Nassau

Mentors:

Steven Gordon

Abstract:

Little is known about the genetic impact of lantern fly infestation in plants. While previous studies have examined how invasive insects affect plant health and resilience, research has not yet determined whether the infestation directly affects distribution of plants or insects adjacent to the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) infested by the spotted lanternfly .Our study will investigate whether the distribution of native plants is influenced by the lantern fly, hypothesizing that infested areas may exhibit unique biodiversity patterns, possibly due to changes triggered by the insects' infestation. Understanding this phenomenon could reveal new insights into the impact of invasive species on plant distribution, helping to develop strategies for managing and protecting native plant populations. On documenting lanternfly infestation at the Garden City Bird Sanctuary, it was found to be localized to the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima)..Some leaves of the plant had black vasculat

Poster:

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