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| Retrieved from: Sonora-desert-detective |
Grown in Rural Phoenix
Larrea tridentata is a species of plant common to the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahan deserts. Larrea Tridentata’s unique properties allow for its shrubs not only to grow deep roots but spread out across more surface area in the which allows the shrub to dominate absorption of nutrients in the soil. Due to the chemical durability of the Larrea Tridentata species, many other organisms have adopted the Larrea Tridentata as their host environment (Schultz 1999). However, research has shown rising levels of CO2 can alter the chemical composition of leaves in Larrea tridentata. Additionally,the nutrients in the soil can be altered. (Wang 2011). Research has also indicated that environmental conditions and changes can influence adaptive traits of plant function over time (Kimball et. al 2012). It is imperative to learn more about the differences in the leaf microbiome of Larrea tridentata in urban and rural areas to gain understanding of how increasing urbanization can impact microbiome development and sustainability over time.
Research question
Is there a difference in
the leaf microbiome of the Larrea tridentata species in the Phoenix urban area
and surrounding desert rural area?
Hypotheses
Hypothesis 1:
The leaf microbiome of
Larrea tridentata found in the urban Phoenix area is detectably different than
the leaf microbiome of Larrea tridentata found in the Phoenix rural areas.
Hypothesis 2:
As a result of urban
area heat islands and a greater concentration of CO2 emitting vehicles, it is
hypothesized that elevated CO2 and pollution will result in different microbial
communities of Larrea tridentata
growing in urban areas.
Hey Sam, I think it’s great how we’re both working with Larrea tridentata! Even though our research projects may be different, we could probably share findings or advice with each other. Anyway, your research proposal looks professional, neat and organized. I will definitely be using yours as an example! Great job :)
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