Project:

Using DNA Barcoding to Study the Effects of Litter on Macroinvertebrate Biodiversit

Students:

Kaitlin Caginalp, Arianna Ventura

School:

William Floyd, Suffolk

Mentors:

Victoria D'Ambrosia

Abstract:

Globally, anthropogenic influences including plastic pollution have cause biodiversity to decrease. When exposed to ocean currents, plastic can become microplastic, which has the potential to harm invertebrates as well as vertebrates in the ocean. Based on this evidence, I hypothesize that a more polluted beach in my community will be less biodiverse than a less polluted counterpart. I will carry out this research by barcoding invertebrates from both beaches. I expect to find greater variety of species at the less polluted beach.

Poster:

Team samples: