Project:

Using DNA barcoding to analyze biodiversity of algae - Understanding the effects of human activity on water quality

Students:

Reika Chakrabarti, Sehyun Lee

School:

Tenafly High School,

Mentors:

Alan Brandstaedter

Abstract:

This study explores the impact of human activity on algal biodiversity in New Jersey. Algae, crucial to aquatic ecosystems and key indicators of water quality, can reflect environmental health through changes in specific species diversity. Samples were collected from a secluded stream and a pond heavily impacted by human activity, with species that are going to be identified using DNA barcoding. Biodiversity will be measured using the Shannon-Wiener Index, which will show reduced diversity and dominance of pollutant-tolerant species in the human affected area. These results bring attention to the negative effects of human activity on water quality and demonstrate the value of algae as ecological indicators.

Poster:

Team samples: