My research project delves into how proximity to a water source influences the bulb size of Northern Rice Root (Fritillaria camschatcensis), a plant species known for its root bulbs. The theoretical foundation of this study is based on the relationship between elevation levels and soil moisture, which directly affects plant health and growth. Elevation plays an important role in shaping soil moisture levels, as it influences both precipitation patterns and drainage processes. In my study, I hypothesize that variations in elevation will lead to different soil moisture conditions, which in turn affect the growth and health of Northern Rice Root plants. Soil moisture is a critical determinant of plant health, as it affects nutrient availability, root development, and overall plant vitality. By examining Northern Rice Root’s at different elevation levels along an environmental gradient, we aim to understand how soil moisture impacts the size of the main bulb. Larger bulbs are often indicative of more favourable growth conditions, which can be linked to optimal soil moisture levels. Conversely, smaller bulbs might suggest suboptimal conditions. This relationship allows us to predict the preferred soil moisture levels for this species and offers insights into its ecological requirements.
My hypothesis touches on several ecological processes such as primary production, nutrient flow, and energy allocation. Soil moisture influences the rate of photosynthesis in plants, which is a fundamental component of primary production. Adequate moisture allows for optimal photosynthetic activity, leading to increased energy and growth in the plant, as evidenced by larger bulb sizes. Soil moisture affects the availability and uptake of nutrients essential for plant growth. Variations in moisture levels can lead to differences in nutrient flow through the plant, impacting its overall health and the size of its bulbs. The energy captured through photosynthesis is allocated towards various growth processes, including bulb development. Soil moisture influences how efficiently plants use available energy for producing larger bulbs. Three keywords I would utilize in my study are “soil moisture”, “Fritillaria camschatcensis”, and “bulb size”.
Sounds like a good start to your background for your paper