Microorganisims beneath the Santa Clara River

Overview

Objectives/Goals The objective of this project was to observe and compare the different microorganisms in the Santa Clara River. Methods/Materials Observed Winogradsky columns made from one-liter bottles containing Mud or dirt samples from various locations along the river and water from source locations or tap. Egg yolk and newspaper nutrients were added as carbon and sulfer sources for the microbes. Documented using a camera for 12 weeks at a temperature range. The independent variable was the soil. The constants were the temperature and the amont of ingredients. Results The results showed the microbe growth in the Windogradsky columns did not vary compared to each other and that the salt water did not affect the microoganisms in the soil. Some pigmentation and coloring of the microbes developed, but no main difference occurred between the samples. Hypothesis that saltwater near the mouth of the river would affect microorganisms which in turn impact vegetation and wildlife was refuted. Vegetation and wildlife around the Santa Clara River did not vary as much as expected. Conclusions/Discussion Microbes in the Winogradsky columns formed over a period of 12 weeks and although the hypothesis was refuted the results are important because they show the different types of bacteria and vegetation/wildlife around the Santa Clara River which may impact how farmers and residents use the river. It may also influence people to be aware of the wildlife and vegetation on the river.

Competition history

• CSEF 2017 Microbiology (General) · Entry J1602

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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