Project:

Analyzing and Barcoding the DNA of Seaweeds and Plants on Beaches of Long Island

Students:

Michelle Lin, Samrah Mitha

School:

The Wheatley School, Nassau

Mentors:

Mary Alexis Blondrage

Abstract:

Seaweeds are marine algae that are important for the ecosystem of the Long Island Sound. The purpose of this project is to examine species that are currently inhabiting the beaches and to catalogue species that have not yet been listed. Seaweeds in particular are primary producers that undergo the process of photosynthesis and provide energy for the rest of the food web. They are categorized into three classes based on color: green, brown, and red (Guiry). Most species of seaweed require solid substrates to grow on, but some may grow in sandy or muddy areas. There are species of seaweed on Long Island that are non-native, some of which are considered to be invasive. Seaweed can cover an extensive area which then becomes a habitat for marine animals. It is estimated that 5,000 to 6,000 species of seaweed exist worldwide (Cornell, 2012). Currently, there are studies involving seaweed in bioextraction and preliminary evaluation. The presence of seagrass in an estuarine system is usually r

Poster:

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