User: | Open Learning Faculty Member:
My project is meant to demonstrate the relative abundance of individuals between different areas corresponding to an environmental gradient, as well as the species diversity/richness within those areas. The three areas have varying degrees of available water and human manipulation, with the bird sanctuary having relatively minor interaction with humans and being situated so that the land and vegetation is directly beside a large lake and with some of that water being protected by a rock wall of sorts. The meadow/park has much vegetation, and is regularly used by humans, however, is a good mix between the sanctuary and a completely urban area. There is no standing body of water here, but the lawns are watered daily, providing ample moisture to the vegetative areas of the meadow and park. The residential buildings are constantly busy with human traffic and have completely changed the landscape that was once there, and there is little to no vegetation in this area as the grass is synthetic, meaning that the water supply here is low.
My hypothesis is that there will be varying relative abundances and species diversity within the three areas, possibly based on the amount of human activity and water supplies within the sites. As many insects breed and reside in moist areas, it is probable that there will be lower abundances in areas with decreased available water.
Keywords: Species richness, relative abundance, environmental gradient.
