Student Research Reports
A Comparative Study of Soil Properties Affecting the Population Density of Nervilia trangensis in Ton Noi and Ton Pliu Waterfall Areas, Kachong Sub-district, Na Yong District, Trang Province
Organization(s):Sawat Rattanapimuk
Country:Thailand
Student(s):Ms. Sutida Saman
Ms. Malisa Duangprao
Grade Level:Secondary School (grades 9-12, ages 14-18)
GLOBE Member(s):Weerawit Anuntanasin, Karnrawee Churat
Contributors:Ms. Sutida Saman
Ms. Malisa Duangprao
Mrs. Kanrawee Churat
Mr. Weerawit Ananthanasin
Report Type(s):Virtual Science Symposium Report
Protocols:Soil pH, Soil Temperature
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Language(s):English
Date Submitted:2026-01-29
This research presents a comparative analysis of the physical and chemical soil properties influencing the population density of Nervilia trangensis in the areas of Ton Noi Waterfall and Ton Pliu Waterfall, Kachong Sub-district, Na Yong District, Trang Province. The findings reveal distinct environmental characteristics between the two locations. Ton Noi Waterfall was characterized by high soil temperatures (29–30°C), low moisture levels (Level 1), and high light intensity (600 LM). Conversely, Ton Pliu Waterfall exhibited lower temperatures (21–27°C), higher moisture levels (Level 3), and lower light intensity (450 LM).
Regarding chemical properties, soil at Ton Noi Waterfall was slightly acidic (pH 6) with moderate potassium levels and very low phosphorus content. In contrast, soil at Ton Pliu Waterfall was neutral (pH 7) with very low levels of both potassium and phosphorus. Both sites showed very low nitrogen concentrations. These variations in moisture, light intensity, and soil nutrients serve as critical variables in determining habitat suitability, directly impacting the growth and population density of Nervilia trangensis. The study recorded a population of 9 plants at Ton Noi Waterfall compared to 15 plants at Ton Pliu Waterfall. This comparative data provides essential guidelines for the efficient conservation and management of watershed areas that serve as specific habitats for this terrestrial orchid species in Trang Province.
Keywords: Physicochemical properties, Nervilia trangensis, Population density