After 6 days of data collection, I think I finally have learned all 4 types and I do have preferences for some over the others. I do enjoy collecting the traps. When you're assigned to the traps, you and your partner try to locate 10 traps in the ponds that were set earlier. Then you empty the water into a tray and search for creatures. It's like opening a Christmas present and seeing what you get. Wood frog tadpoles are especially prized, but trying to differentiate them from Chorus frog tadpoles can be tricky. Both tadpoles look remarkably similar, however the Wood Frog's eyes are set on top of it's head as opposed to the side of it's head.
In addition to tadpoles, an indicator species, we hope to find Predaceous Diving Beetles and two types of Stickleback Fish.
These species are closely intertwined in the wetland pond food web. The Predaceous Diving Beetle (think top of the wetland pond food chain) and it's larvae prey on tadpoles as do the Stickleback Fish. By keeping track of their numbers, researchers can determine if a decline in tadpole or frog populations is due to its predators or a change in the climate.
We, as citizen scientists, devote just a small amount of time to this worthwhile project. The true heroes in this quest are the researchers who work in this remote part of the world. Their passion for this crucial work is palatable and washes over all who come here to help.
In addition to tadpoles, an indicator species, we hope to find Predaceous Diving Beetles and two types of Stickleback Fish.
These species are closely intertwined in the wetland pond food web. The Predaceous Diving Beetle (think top of the wetland pond food chain) and it's larvae prey on tadpoles as do the Stickleback Fish. By keeping track of their numbers, researchers can determine if a decline in tadpole or frog populations is due to its predators or a change in the climate.
We, as citizen scientists, devote just a small amount of time to this worthwhile project. The true heroes in this quest are the researchers who work in this remote part of the world. Their passion for this crucial work is palatable and washes over all who come here to help.
Top of the Food Web-Predaceous Diving Beetle
Emptying a Trap
Catching Creatures with the Dipnets
Emptying a Trap
Catching Creatures with the Dipnets