Greetings, readers! I was still counting sea urchins from last week's assignment when this week began, but I finished on Tuesday. Counting 600 still images of urchins is no easy task but I believe it was worthwhile. My ability to recognize those sea urchin species has significantly improved.
I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do for my research project. Initially, I had intentions to involve sea urchins in my research as they can be beneficial and harmful in certain ecosystems. However, the ecosystem I was planning to research the sea urchins was kelp forest I which they are very harmful. If there are no predators to keep their numbers in check, sea urchins, which consume macroalgae like giant kelp, might completely destroy kelp forests and stop them from expanding. An abundant kelp colony could consequently become an urchin barren, often known as an oceanic desert. I had planned to study sea urchin predators and how much they benefit the kelp forest, but after speaking with Dr. Galloway, we decided to take a different path due to the scarcity of footage of those predators. We discussed and I would be working with the sea stars in those kelp forest. I would be comparing sizes, counting species, and doing additional research on sea stars. Although not all the specifics are finalized, I believe it's a decent beginning. I began studying the various species and how to recognize them. A book by Dr. Galloway that aids in species identification was also given to me. In addition to my research project, we had a professional development session that was really beneficial because it showed us the advantages of having a strong CV and resume as well as how to create one. On Wednesday, we also had lunch with Katlyn Haven, an ODFW fish biologist. She talked to us about her experiences, her motivation for attending graduate school, and other things. Finally, on Friday, some of the REU interns went tide pooling; but, because I slept in too late, I was unable to accompany them. There are usually a lot of interesting things to view when tide pooling, so hopefully I get to go with them the next time.
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AuthorGreetings, blog readers! My name is J'mie Lawrence and I'm from the Caribbean island of Grenada. I've spent the last year at SWOCC (Southwestern Oregon Community College). My current objective is to earn a transfer degree so that I can enroll in a four-year university to study marine biology. Being able to do marine research with Dr. Aaron Galloway at OIMB is incredibly exciting for me because I've always had a passion for marine biology. Archives
August 2022
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