Experiment 1, "Dynamics of population growth: exponential and logistic growth" examines continuous population growth by growing duckweeds (Lemna spp.) Experiment 2, "Resource limitation and population growth" examines the conditions that result in maximum population growth of Lemna by manipulating the resources that limit growth including nutrients, light, and surface area. Experiment 3,...

Publisher: EcoEd Digital Library

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This laboratory exercise examines the changes in human demographic patterns by visiting a local cemetery, collecting data recorded on tombstones, and producing a graphical representation of survivorship.

Publisher: EcoEd Digital Library

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In this laboratory exercise, the following issues are examined: 1) why neither predators nor prey go extinct when there is a long period of nonrenewal of the prey population 2) the effects of habitat on foraging speed 3) the advantages foragers can gain from experience in foraging 4) the advantage of exclusive use of an area for foragers 5) the effects of food density on foraging speed 6) the...

Publisher: EcoEd Digital Library

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In this experiment, students observe sawfly galls (Hymenoptera) on willow (Salix) trees to investigate some of the ecological consequences of plant-herbivore relationships. The physical and chemical traits of plants vary due to genes and environmental factors, such as soil moisture, nutrient levels, exposure to pathogens, and exposure to herbivores. These traits can lead to differences in...

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In this Experiment, students design an experiment to examine intraspecific and interspecific competition using two species of parasitoid wasps (Nasonia vitripennis and Melittobia digitata). Students examine the effect of both types of competition on reproductive output in the wasps. One or two females are placed on a single host: alone, or a competitor of the same species (intraspecific), with a...

Publisher: EcoEd Digital Library

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