The present study was conducted at Vancouver Island University, located in Nanaimo, British Columbia. The research area of interest is situated in close proximity to building 365, known as the Log Cabin, with coordinates of 49.1573° N, 123.9664° W. The research area spans approximately 75 m2. Observations were conducted on April 19th, 2023, at 1:01 pm Pacific Standard Time (PST), with weather conditions recorded at the time indicating a temperature of 48°C, wind speed of 7.8 mph, atmospheric pressure of 30 Hg, and relative humidity of approximately 64%.
The study area is situated in an area close to a busy highway, which poses potential threats to the local flora and fauna. Despite this, the area is home to several interesting features, including small steep high and low grounds that create unique microclimates. These microclimates, combined with the area’s proximity to the coast, make it an ideal location for the growth of several species of plants and trees, including Garry oak and Douglas fir.
During my observations, I also noted the presence of several species of understory plants, such as salal and daphne. However, upon closer examination, I noticed some damage to the leaves of these plants. It is possible that the damage is the result of pests or disease, although further investigation is needed to confirm this. The grounds have some mini sidewalks that make it easily accessible for students to travel between buildings 355 and 356. In addition, I’ve also noticed some bird feeders in the area which attract a diverse range of bird species. These feeders provide an opportunity for researchers to conduct experiments related to bird species and feeding habits.
Some potential questions:
- In what ways has human activity/ anthropogenic factors impacted the landscape and community of the study area?
- How does the level of herbivory on the leaves of Salal and Daphne compare, given the observed damages on the leaves? What factors may contribute to any differences in herbivory between the two species?
- To what extent have native species and the invasive species (Salal vs. Daphne) impacted species distribution in the high and low grounds of the study area, and what is the relative population size of Daphne compared to Salal?
I have quite a few students who have used the VIU campus for their studies and it works quite well. I am curious why you are limiting yourself to a 75m2 area. That is potentially large enough but it depends on the question you end up focusing on. As you go through the next few modules you will start to look at developing hypotheses and experimental design and the tutorials will help you start to think through your own study.
I have just had a student focusing on a hypothesis related to your question 3. It is eerily similar and so I encourage you to do something different and make sure you are working independently of other students.