Project:

DNA inventory of indoor species in NYC and their effects on health

Students:

Anna Mikadze, Kyra Sigh

Institution:

James Madison High School/AMNH, Brooklyn

Mentors:

Jose Padial

Abstract:

People spend the majority of their time indoors and are affected mentally and physically by the not so apparent inhabitants with which we share the indoor environment. Our research aims to take the first step in identifying what different species coexist with humans inside their homes in NYC. We will utilize DNA sequencing (barcodes) to determine the species inhabiting multiple households and compare the diversity of species in relation to the type of housing, diversity of environments within the house, and different areas of the city. We also aim at increasing awareness about the diversity of life forms that compose the urban environment and review the affect these species have on humans.

Poster:

Team samples: