Terrestrial I Week 5
Forest and Grassland Ecosystems
Complete all four of these sections.
Goes with Tuesday\’s Lecture
Goes with Thursday\’s Lecture
Supplements Recitation
Supplements Laboratory
Content in all four sections can appear on an exam
The next digital post assignment is due Sunday, Nov. 3, by 11:58 p.m.
The material below is not on an exam, but may be of interest
Forest Floor
Researching forests has historically meant sampling and observing on the forest floor. It just made sense; trees were rooted into the ground and many other organisms were found in the soil or like us, walking on the ground. It may not be a surprise to you, but using technology like cranes and drones revealed that much of life in a forest occurs far above ground in the canopy of upper branches and leaves. Just because we humans are rarely there, doesn\’t mean life isn\’t playing out over time. Something to keep in mind next time you are on a forest hike.
Lesley
This week we are meeting the marine invertebrates in lab. For marine aquarium enthusiasts, fish are great, but the real excitement are invertebrates like this spaghetti worm. Normally its\’ body is hidden in the sand or in a rock, but this one is out hunting with its tentacles. Awesome!
Behind-the-Scenes
You may have noticed more crows in the Willamette Valley in recent years. Their ability to nest in a variety of locations, omnivorous diet, and strong social behaviors have led to a population increase.
If you are driving on route 5 between Corvallis and Portland, don\’t miss the \”Grove of the States\” collection of trees located at the French Prairie Rest Area. Besides the usual restrooms and occasional free coffee, there are state trees from most of the 50 states.
Recommended Books
An oldie but goodie: the detailed plant entries make this guide worth having in a collection.
You may never experience trees the same way after reading this book.
