Invertebrate & Leaf Litter Dynamics in the DePauw University Nature Park and Arboretum

Authors

• Karl Koehler, DePauw University
• Libby Sue Allard
• Kyra Dawn Reed

Files

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

11-2005

Abstract

Our study focuses on the interaction between invertebrate abundance and the decomposition of leaf litter. The decomposition of leaf litter plays a major role in the nutrient cycling process, which is critical to the health of an ecosystem (Spurr and Barnes 1980). The dynamics between invertebrates and leaf litter are of particular importance because invertebrates are good indicators of the activity of the decomposer community. Abiotic factors such as soil pH and temperature are also important influences on decomposition rates (Bornebusch 1930; Petersen & Luxton 1982; Seastedt 1984). Our goal was to determine the nature of this interaction. Ultimately, this information could provide us with a more accurate illustration of the efficiency and health of the Nature Park and Arboretum ecosystems.

We hypothesized that certain invertebrates would appear in high abundance in specific areas. If these proved to be invertebrates integral in the decomposition process then there would be a noticeably high amount of decomposition of litter in these areas.

Project Mentor

Professor Vanessa Artman Ph.D

Funding and Acknowledgements

This study could not have been completed without the tireless perseverance and help of my fellow team members Libby Sue Allard and Kyra Dawn Reed and the unwavering tutelage and guidance of our supervisor, Professor Vanessa Artman. I would also like to give a shout out to my parents for always supporting me and to DePauw University for funding the Science Research Fellows summer research program.

Recommended Citation

Koehler, Karl; Allard, Libby Sue; and Reed, Kyra Dawn, "Invertebrate & Leaf Litter Dynamics in the DePauw University Nature Park and Arboretum" (2005). Annual Student Research Poster Session. 245.
https://scholarship.depauw.edu/srfposters/245