Project:

Biodiversity of Bacteria in Soil

Students:

Phoebe Siklas, Tallula McPadden, Jayleen Torralba Bonilla, Kamila Rodriguez

School:

FMHS, Manhattan

Mentors:

Dora Miklos

Abstract:

For our DNA barcoding project, we decided to study different types of bacteria found in soil. Soil is the organic material on the immediate surface of the earth that serves as a natural medium for the growth of land plants (USDA 1). Bacteria are microscopic living organisms that only have one cell. Bacillus, Cocci, and Spirillum are the most common species of bacteria that are found in soil (Cleveland Clinic 2). However, this experiment will indicate important geochemical processes of the carbon and nitrogen cycle in each type of soil. This project will also reveal the environmental factors that impact each area. These environmental factors include the air, water, and climate of each area. We will be collecting soil from a variety of parks in different neighborhoods in New York City. Such as, Carl Schurz Park, Central Park, John Jay Park, Williamsbridge Oval Park, French Charley’s Playground, Washington Square Park, Riverside Park, Vesuvio Playground, and Mosholu park.

Poster:

Team samples: