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Correlations between vernal pool phenology and a breeding population of Bufo americanus in Dearborn Heights, Michigan

Organization(s):Crestwood High School
Country:United States of America
Student(s):Ahmad Awada and Hussein Makki
Grade Level:Secondary School (grades 9-12, ages 14-18)
GLOBE Teacher:Diana Johns
Contributors:
Report Type(s):
Protocols:Air Temperature, Precipitation, Water Temperature
Language(s):
Date Submitted:05/02/2013
Screen capture from presentation
Vernal pools are a disappearing hydrologic resource in Southeastern Michigan. As industrialization and suburbanization continue to drain and develop these important wetlands, there has been a dramatic drop in anuran and other associated wildlife populations. This research project attempted to investigate what relationships exist between various weather factors and the breeding use of a temporary wetland by the American toad, Bufo americanus. Only one remaining natural vernal pool associated with the Ecorse River Watershed was identified in Dearborn Heights, Michigan. Although research continues, a strong correlation between the onset of precipitation and the breeding use of this vernal pool was noted.


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Comments

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Diana Johns
10 Years Ago
Your project was very interesting. The project looks very successful and well put. An improvement could have been to research other areas of Michigan rather than just the southeast.
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Meg Mobley
10 Years Ago
Wow, great project! I can tell you've put in a lot of effort and are really invested the work.

Do you have any hypotheses about why the toads respond to precipitation events? How did you estimate the number of toads chorusing? How much help did you have doing the research and writing up the report?

Excellent work!
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Dixon Matlock Butler
10 Years Ago
This is an impressive project well presented. Why do you think precipitation increased the number of toads observed? Also, do you have any data or observations about reproductive success of the toads in this vernal pool.
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Dixon Matlock Butler
10 Years Ago
In looking at your written report, the null hypothesis stated seems out of sync with your measurements and focus on the toads. Can you explain, please?
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Julie Malmberg
10 Years Ago
Ahmad and Hussein - I am very impressed with your research! You really did a fantastic job.

I have several questions - first, how do you plan on continuing this research? It seems like you have a lot of possibilities! Have you considered looking at water quality or water temperature? Second - how do you think you can share this information with your community?

I really enjoyed learning more about your research!