User: | Open Learning Faculty Member:
The main idea of my research is that the ecological environment will influence the growth and abundance of the sword fern growth. My hypothesis states a more shaded, sheltered environment would provide better growing conditions for this fern. This is based upon the understanding that ferns are semi-shade plants, and the research that shows that with increasing light intensity, fern survival is decreased. One of the sites chosen in my study is close to a walking path and a major road, so anthropogenic influences may also impact fern growth.
Key words: fern growth, canopy coverage, anthropogenic influence