Project:

Testing the Theory of Island Biogeography on Randall's Island with Microhabitats

Students:

Serena Hirano, Noah Lodish, Javin Gasca

School:

Ethical Culture Fieldston School, The Bronx

Mentors:

Howard Waldman

Abstract:

The following study applies the theory of island biogeography to a localized group of microhabitats on Randall’s Island, investigating how distance from human disturbance, moisture levels, and habitat size affect invertebrate species richness and quantity of them under logs. By examining logs as analogous to islands isolated from mainlands, the team will measure species diversity under logs across different environmental gradients. Our study aims to reveal how urbanization impacts biodiversity in microhabitats and whether or not these findings align with the theory of island biogeography.

Poster:

Team samples:

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