Ensc 101 Lab No Filter Aquarium CO2

Ensc 101 Labno Co2 No Filter Aquariumthis Lab Will Utilize Aquariums A

Ensc 101 Labno Co2 No Filter Aquariumthis Lab Will Utilize Aquariums A

ENSC 101 Lab No CO2 No Filter Aquarium This lab will utilize aquariums to study ecosystem variations. The objectives include learning to create a no CO2, no filter aquarium; observing effects of physicochemical parameter changes; and analyzing results to understand environmental impacts.

Materials required encompass two wide-mouth glass jars or fishbowls, aquarium gravel and sand, soil (potting or pond silt), freshwater aquatic plants, small water snails, miniature shrimp, small freshwater fish, clear plastic sheets, Sharpie markers, rulers, cleaning tools, and LED desk lamps.

The background emphasizes that natural freshwater-planted aquariums mimic ecosystems, beneficially supporting fish and plant health through mutually beneficial relationships. Fish provide carbon dioxide and nutrients, while plants supply oxygen and biological filtration, creating a sustainable environment.

Site selection should replicate local pond or lake ecosystems; factors like light, water type, climate, flora, fauna, and temperature must be considered. For ecosystems outside the local environment, research and purchase appropriate plants and animals are necessary. Maintaining proper conditions—light, temperature, pH—depends on accurate site replication.

Tank selection recommends glass containers over plastic, with a capacity of at least 1 gallon, wide mouth, clear sides, and durability against water. Water choice should be spring water or pond water, dechlorinated if tap water is used, and fresh to prevent microbial growth. Soil should be sieved to remove larger particles, and layered with gravel, sand, and soil for stability and aesthetic. Incorporating wood, roots, or stones enhances appearance.

Plant selection hinges on the source: local pond plants or commercial aquarist plants. Plants should be healthy, with roots washed carefully; small plants go at the front, larger at the back. Aquascaping arrangements consider plant size and growth potential.

Lighting involves LED lamps with at least 4W, ensuring each tank has enough illumination, especially if separated. Proper lighting influences photosynthesis, plant health, and ecosystem stability.

Initial aquarium setup involves layering gravel, sand, and soil, then planting aquatic flora. Water is gently added to prevent disturbance, and the system is allowed to stabilize for two weeks before introducing fish or invertebrates. Regular maintenance involves controlling lighting, preventing algae, adjusting water levels, and monitoring plant and water health.

Documentation includes weekly photographic records with a grid overlay to observe plant growth, measuring physical parameters like water clarity and plant height, and recording temperature and other environmental conditions. These measures enable comparison over time and with control setups.

Introduction of variables occurs after initial stabilization, involving two similar aquariums—one as control, the other with variables such as temperature alterations, pH adjustments, fertilizer addition, light deprivation, or biodiversity changes. These experiments analyze effects on ecosystem health and resilience.

Site and conditions for a terrarium are selected based on local environmental parameters, ensuring the simulated ecosystem reflects natural conditions in terms of soil type, temperature, sunlight, water, humidity, and biotic components. This includes detailed planning and documentation to match the real ecosystem's specifics, enabling meaningful comparisons and conclusions.

Paper For Above instruction

The creation and study of freshwater aquariums free of CO2 injection and filtration simulate natural ecosystems, offering valuable insights into ecological dynamics and environmental stressors. This experiment not only helps students understand biological relationships but also stresses the importance of maintaining appropriate physicochemical parameters for ecosystem health.

Establishing a no CO2, no filter aquarium begins with selecting suitable containers—glass jars or fishbowls—that are wide-mouthed, transparent, and durable. The size of at least 1 gallon ensures sufficient space for plants and animals, mimicking natural habitats. The water used should be free of chlorine and contaminants, with spring water or pond water preferred to replicate natural conditions. When sourcing water from local ponds, caution must be exercised regarding microbial content, and water should be used promptly to avoid stagnation.

Layering the substrate involves a combination of gravel, sand, and nutrient-rich soil, carefully sieved and layered to emulate the natural soil profile and promote plant anchorage and nutrient cycling. Incorporating organic materials like wood or stones enhances habitat complexity and visual appeal. These foundational steps establish a stable environment conducive to aquatic plant growth and wildlife.

Plant selection is critical; native or locally sourced aquatic plants are ideal due to their adaptation to local conditions. These include submerged, floating, and emergent plants—each contributing uniquely to oxygenation, filtration, and habitat structure. Commercial aquatic plants are readily available and provide a reliable alternative when local sources are not accessible. Proper planting techniques involve spacing plants to prevent overcrowding and promoting growth.

Lighting significantly influences plant photosynthesis and ecosystem productivity. Light sources should be LED with at least 4W capacity, positioned to mimic natural sunlight patterns, with individual lights for separate tanks. Adequate lighting supports healthy plant growth and encourages biological activity that sustains the aquatic ecosystem.

Initial setup entails layering substrates, planting vegetation, and gently filling the tank with water—carefully avoiding soil disturbance that can cloud the water. A stabilization period of approximately two weeks is recommended before introducing aquatic animals, allowing bacterial colonies and plants to establish a balanced ecosystem.

Throughout the experimental period, regular observations involve photographing the tanks, overlaying grids to quantify plant expansion, and recording physical comments like water clarity, plant height, and animal behavior. Using a fixed camera angle ensures consistency, facilitating reliable comparison over time. Monitoring temperature, light, and water parameters provides data on ecosystem stability and responses to variables introduced later.

Once the baseline ecological conditions are established, variables such as temperature fluctuations, pH changes, addition of organic or inorganic fertilizers, light deprivation, or the introduction of new species can be systematically tested. Control tanks remain unchanged, providing a benchmark for assessing impacts. For example, exposing one tank to cold conditions or acidifying the water can demonstrate resilience or sensitivity of the ecosystem components.

In designing a terrarium that mimics a specific ecosystem, site analysis is essential. Data collection includes soil type, temperature ranges, humidity, sunlight exposure, and flora and fauna presence. The terrarium should replicate as many conditions as feasible to study the ecological relationships effectively. This process involves thorough planning, detailed documentation, and careful selection of plant and animal species suitable for the local environment or the ecosystem under study.

Overall, these aquariums and terrariums serve as miniature ecological models, illustrating how environmental factors influence biological communities. Such models are invaluable for educational purposes, research into environmental change impacts, and fostering ecological awareness among students. Proper management, consistent documentation, and critical analysis of results will enable meaningful conclusions about ecosystem stability, resilience, and adaptability under various conditions.

References

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