Project:

Wintergreen Weeds and Microclimates Around New York City Parks

Students:

Nora Shin, Malini Jathavedam

School:

Tenafly High School,

Mentors:

Alan Brandstaedter

Abstract:

Although the urban heat island effect is well documented, little is known about how small scale microclimate variation within cities affects wintergreen vegetation. This project will investigate how small microclimate differences along the perimeter of Central Park influence wintergreen weeds that remain active during cold months. Species of leaves such as Stellaria media, Capsella bursa-pastoris, and Cardamine hirsuta, will be collected from sidewalk sites that differ in three microclimate factors: sunlight, wind exposure, and nearby traffic. These samples will be preserved and analyzed using DNA barcoding to confirm species identities. Microclimate data will be compared with species presence to see whether warmer/more sheltered sites support greater winter weed activity. Our results aim to improve understanding of how small scale urban conditions help sustain plant life during winter in New York City.

Team samples:

See all samples for project