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Does Light Attract Aquatic Invertebrates?

CSEF · 2005 Zoology

Sakshi Joshi · Alta Sierra Intermediate School, Clovis

Overview

Objectives/Goals My project is to observe if light will attract aquatic invertebrates. Methods/Materials I took two containers, one with nothing in it, and the other with a flashlight inside of it. Both containers were placed in a lake at night. The next morning before sunrise, the containers were collected and the samples were analyzed under a microscope. I also used a digital camcorder, affixing it to the microscope, which provided a more up close image of the invertebrates allowing me to take pictures for the display. During each experiment, I took a sample from each container and extrapolated the results. Results In all the samples, the containers with the light had more invertebrates in it. In one of the experiments, the ratio was 40 to 1. The results also showed that not only aquatic invertebrates, but vertebrates and bugs are also attracted to light. The majority of invertebrates in the samples were "water fleas." Conclusions/Discussion As I hypothesized, the aquatic invertebrates were attracted to light. My hypothesis was based on observing specimens such as humans and mosquitos.

Summary statement

The project is to observe if aquatic invertebrates are attracted to light.

Help received

Parents reviewed typing and helped with the camcorder; Younger sister kept 4 year old brother away from the display board and entertained him while I conducted my experiments; Mr. Piercy (teacher) provided the microscope and petri dishes, provided guidence, and located the lake.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2005 Zoology · Entry J1911

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