Project:

The Effect of Monk Parakeet Feces on Invertebrate Biodiversity

Students:

Melanie Cascio, Darah Daskalakis

School:

Seaford High School, Nassau

Mentors:

Mary Simons

Abstract:

Our group is working to use DNA barcoding to identify invertebrates found under and near monk parakeet feces in various parks along Long Island, specifically Burns Park, in Massapequa, NY, Seaman's Neck Park, in Seaford, NY, and Wantagh Park, in Wantagh, NY. Studies have found that there is an increase in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients in the soil composition where these birds' feces are found. In another experiment, scientists show how the types of species present in bogs is affected by the differences in soil composition. (4) Our objective was to determine if Monk Parakeet feces had an effect on the ecosystem. We hypothesized three statements: That nutrient levels in the soil would be increased, that there would be a positive effect on vegetation and therefore more species will be dependent on that vegetation, and that there will be a change in the species composition in the areas with and without Monk Parakeets. We are using the co1 primer during our PCR to amplify th

Poster:

Team samples: