Investigating thegrowth of pleurococcus on tree trunks

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Investigating the growth of pleurococcus on tree trunks

Factors to consider/have an effect

* Type of tree

* Height

* Light intensity

* Temperature

Observations

Preliminary method

* On your tree, use a compass to find out which side of the tree is north.

* Then place your grind against the tree trunk and count how many squares have growth on them.

* Write your results down in a table and repeat for east, south and west.

Preliminary results

Tree number

Site 1

North

Site 1

East

Site 1

South

Site 1

West

Site 2

North

Site 2

East

Site 2

South

Site 2

West

25

24

4

25

9

2

4

7

20

1

25

3

25

3

6

8

5

22

25

22

23

5

3

0

4

25

20

1

3

25

3

8

6

Total

87

71

76

74

60

27

53

39

Preliminary information

Pleurococcus is the most common green algae and grows on the tree trunks, poles and stonewalls. It is mostly found on the north side of the trunk at the bottom. To grow it needs a lot of, moisture and shade although it still needs sunlight and water like most trees and plants. However green algae do not have any roots. They do not have any leaves or stomata therefore it does not have any water saving protection. They are single celled and have to grow in clumps to avoid desiccation. This means it increases surface area and stops them drying out.
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Preliminary prediction

Based on the preliminary information I can predict that the pleurococcus will grow best on the north side and at site 1. In this area it is shady and there is a lot of moisture as well.

Apparatus

* Compass- to find correct side of tree trunk.

* 1 metre rule- to make it fair so it is same distance of the ground

* Quadrate - measure how much pleurococcus there is.

* Data log it- measure the light intensity

Diagram

Fair testing

* Keeping the height ...

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