ZOOPlankton Monitoring Studies

Zooplankton are organisms drifting in oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, ponds; in salt water and in freshwater. The amount and types of zooplankton present give us information about food web interactions and water quality. Data from the zooplankton project and water quality data help us understand food web and habitat interactions, deepening our understanding of the ecology of Otter Point Creek.

Because zooplankton are not visible to the unaided eye, their importance can be overlooked. We know that other "unseen" factors that influence life in the Bay can have devastating effects if they are out of balance. For example, water with low levels of dissolved oxygen "looks" perfectly normal yet can cause fish kills.

Research projects:

Calendar of EventsView all

• Members Only - Early Bird Canoe08/15/2020 @ 8:00 am-10:30 amSoak in the morning sun and views of wildlife while paddling through our freshwater marsh. *Meet at Bosely Conservancy
• Critter Dinner Time08/15/2020 @ 10:30 am-11:30 amWatch our turtles, amphibians and snakes eat while learning about these fascinating creatures.
• Tots on the Shore08/15/2020 @ 3:00 pm-4:00 pmVenture down to the shoreline at low tide to explore rocks, shells, clay, and signs of wildlife. Be prepared to get dirty.
• Invasinators08/16/2020 @ 9:00 am-11:00 amBecome part of a volunteer team of invasive plant removers and native plant restorers. Learn why non-native invasive plants are a threat to our ecosystem, how to identify problem plants, and removal and restoration strategies. Wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves, and work gloves for field work in the Reserve each meeting date, weather permitting.
• Tails and Tots08/16/2020 @ 12:30 pm-1:30 pmStory time with a natural twist! Listen to stories, learn new songs, and move like the animals!

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