The most essential aspect of the biological world to preserve is the integrity of its natural processes and ecological services. For this reason, conservation efforts should be guided toward preserving the continuity of elemental cycling and energy flow through ecological systems rather than preserving the few organisms which happen to be preferred by human beings. … Continue reading The New Art of Conservation
To determine whether C. maenas is more guided by photosensation (light) or mechanosensation (physical touch) in refuge selection, I ran statistical analyses on two variables. I first examined how the initial area chosen by C. maenas differed between control and variable trials. The first area chosen by C. maenas represents the first place C. maenas … Continue reading Analysis of Green Crab Refuge Selection
My study is designed to determine how Carcinus maenas identifies viable hiding spots. My experimental setup is acts as a simplified version of an intertidal habitat in which numerous variables can be controlled and the defensive behavior of C. maenas can be observed. The main idea of the experiment is to present C. maenas with … Continue reading Green Crab Refuge Selection Experimental Methods
I consider myself incredibly lucky to have spent the past three weeks studying marine biology research at Shoals Marine Laboratory on Appledore Island, Maine. For the first two weeks here I was enrolled in a course in which students are taught how to effectively use the scientific method to design and conduct independent research. Our … Continue reading Research Development and the European Green Crab
Within the expansive and intricate realm of ecology, one may cite ethology as the categorical branch most philosophically applicable to mankind. At the intersection of these two studies lies the captivating way in which animal physiology and psychology (made evident through subject behavior) shape and are likewise shaped by ecological interactions. Why do animals behave … Continue reading Recognizing our Moral Imperatives by Understanding One Another
All children should be given a foundational understanding of ecology and of the natural sciences at some point in their academic career, as environmental awareness is critical to the development of an attitude of environmental stewardship. Ideally, all students would be taught in a manner which cultivates an appreciation for the natural world and instigates a … Continue reading The Value of an Ecological Education
Big Planet, Little World 