Project:

Specimen analysis of Massapequa Preserve

Students:

Patrikios Constanti, Jeffry Petracca

School:

Massapequa Ames High School, Nassau

Mentors:

August Eberling

Abstract:

Information and awareness of the organisms inhabiting the Massapequa Preserve has been a major priority amongst the people of Long Island due to the recent pollution of the creek. In this project, macroinvertebrates were safely collected and studied to help determine the overall health of the corresponding species within the Creek. Various specimens were gathered on a number of objects, some of which were logs, rocks, soil, and plant life. After collection and photography, the specimens were frozen in alcohol for accurate preservation. The organisms were then analyzed through DNA barcoding. Using the DNA barcoding it is expected that the information collected will help to better understand the biodiversity of the Massapequa Preserve.

Poster:

Team samples: