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Title: The music experience and its influence on cognitive function measured with EEG.
Name/Creator: Golan, Ronit, Lang, Merike, Rosselli, Monica
Abstract/Description: Musicians and non-musicians were evaluated during pilot testing of the Visual Oddball and Go/No-Go as measured with P3 event-related potentials. Amidst COVID-19, we are collecting online questionnaire data with a sample of 34 participants, which will be tested in-person once safety protocols are established. Factors from the Brief Music Experience Questionnaire were correlated to variables from a Basic Information Questionnaire. For the Oddball and Go/No-Go testing, lower reaction times were...
Show moreMusicians and non-musicians were evaluated during pilot testing of the Visual Oddball and Go/No-Go as measured with P3 event-related potentials. Amidst COVID-19, we are collecting online questionnaire data with a sample of 34 participants, which will be tested in-person once safety protocols are established. Factors from the Brief Music Experience Questionnaire were correlated to variables from a Basic Information Questionnaire. For the Oddball and Go/No-Go testing, lower reaction times were observed for two musicians as well as higher accuracy on the Oddball task. Musicians demonstrated higher amplitudes and later peak latencies for the Go/No-Go, but lower amplitudes and later peak latencies for the Oddball. Preliminary correlations were found between years playing an instrument, and proficiency playing an instrument with innovative musical aptitude and reactive musical behavior components. Upon collecting more data, differences are expected in cognition between musicians and non-musicians during tasks of stimulus evaluation and inhibition.
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Date Issued: 2021-04-21
Identifier: BC3353
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC3353

Title: The Atlantic Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA) fish protocols.
Name/Creator: Self, Madison
Abstract/Description: The Atlantic Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA) is an international program aimed at improving conditions of reefs in the West Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, by providing a standardized assessment of key structural and functional indicators that can be used to reveal the regional condition of the reef. Reef fish carry out important roles such as predation and grazing, therefore by studying the abundance, size, and distribution of key species, we can gain insight on the changing dynamics of the...
Show moreThe Atlantic Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA) is an international program aimed at improving conditions of reefs in the West Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, by providing a standardized assessment of key structural and functional indicators that can be used to reveal the regional condition of the reef. Reef fish carry out important roles such as predation and grazing, therefore by studying the abundance, size, and distribution of key species, we can gain insight on the changing dynamics of the reef and understand the roles humans play in effecting these fish populations. AGRRA fish surveys can be at a basic or detailed level, depending on the research needs. These protocols are carried out by a minimum of two trained SCUBA divers who will quantify the abundance and community composition of key species along a 30-meter-long by two-meter-wide belt transect. Once the survey is completed, team leaders will gather datasheets and submit them to the AGRRA database. The results of this data can then be used to serve as baselines for future studies of these reefs and to make educated and informed decisions on management practices for these regions.
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Date Issued: 2021-04-21
Identifier: BC3354
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC3354

Title: Paxton series: the state soil of Massachusetts.
Name/Creator: Deitsch, Adam Michael
Abstract/Description: A United States Commonwealth located around 42.4°N and 71.4°W, Massachusetts is an area still rebounding from the last glacial retreat. Its official state soil is the Paxton series, which covers approximately 816,626 acres in the New England area, and accounts for approximately 7.5% of the land in the commonwealth. Paxton is formed around dense glacial till, comprised of eroded and compacted gneiss, granite, and schist. Typically found around convex slopes such as drumlins and ground moraines...
Show moreA United States Commonwealth located around 42.4°N and 71.4°W, Massachusetts is an area still rebounding from the last glacial retreat. Its official state soil is the Paxton series, which covers approximately 816,626 acres in the New England area, and accounts for approximately 7.5% of the land in the commonwealth. Paxton is formed around dense glacial till, comprised of eroded and compacted gneiss, granite, and schist. Typically found around convex slopes such as drumlins and ground moraines, it is notably absent in the Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket areas. Classified as coarse-loamy, mixed, active, mesic Oxyaquic Dystrudepts, the series is of relatively young development and falls under the order of Inceptisols. Texture of Paxton soils range from fine, sandy loam to coarser loam as they approach the lowest horizon. The soil is mostly sand with a small portion of silt and clay. A pedon will usually have 4 horizons (Ap, Bw1, Bw2, Cd), though some have more. All horizons are acidic and increase in gravel content with depth. The soil’s characteristics make it viable for uses including cultivation, light construction, and pastureland. Limitations can be correlated to some of the qualities that make them suitable for prime farmland. High holding capacity can generate seasonal perched water tables, and while this can be beneficial for agricultural purposes, it can also increase erosion and lead to anaerobic conditions. Frost expansion from harsh winters can also cause structural damage to housing projects, roadways, and septic systems. Conservation and management issues are related to loss of farmland and forested land. Thousands of acres have been lost to development of solar farms, and future solar needs could destroy significantly more land. While some areas implement dual uses—farming beneath solar panels—there is uncertainty about long-term effects on soil health and arability.
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Date Issued: 2021-04-21
Identifier: BC3351
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC3351

Title: Monitoring coral bleaching and disease through the Southeast Florida Action Network BleachWatch program.
Name/Creator: Camden, Lauren
Abstract/Description: Corals are made up of many animals called coral polyps, which receive ninety percent of their food and energy through photosynthesis from microscopic algae living within them called zooxanthellae. These algae have a symbiotic relationship with coral, both relying on each other to survive. The zooxanthellae give corals their characteristic colorful appearance. However, when placed under stress coral expel their zooxanthellae, exposing their white tissue and skeletons, and losing their main...
Show moreCorals are made up of many animals called coral polyps, which receive ninety percent of their food and energy through photosynthesis from microscopic algae living within them called zooxanthellae. These algae have a symbiotic relationship with coral, both relying on each other to survive. The zooxanthellae give corals their characteristic colorful appearance. However, when placed under stress coral expel their zooxanthellae, exposing their white tissue and skeletons, and losing their main food source. This is called coral bleaching and has been occurring in increasing severity in the last twenty years. Mass bleaching events have been increasingly observed where a wide range of species bleach over a large area of reef. These mass bleaching events have been correlated to rising sea surface temperatures that cause the coral thermal stress. A rise in temperature of only one to two degrees Celsius can trigger bleaching events, and when long term averages are raised, mass bleaching is more likely to occur. This can cause eventual mortality if environmental stressors are not resolved quickly enough to give corals a chance to recover. Disease is the second part of the two-part threat causing coral casualties in the tropical Atlantic and wider Caribbean region. Beginning in the 1970s, disease has been observed at staggering levels worldwide and is the result of a bacteria, virus, fungus, or abnormal growth. In the Florida Reef Tract, this can present as black band disease, stony soral tissue loss disease, or tumors. It is identified by a change in tissue color or structure and causes tissue loss and eventual mortality. BleachWatch is a program designed to detect and monitor coral bleaching events and disease outbreaks in the Florida Reef Tract and serve as an early warning system for bleaching events. Southeast Florida Action Network (SEAFAN) in conjunction with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection developed the SEAFAN BleachWatch program in 2013 as a compliment to the Florida Keys BleachWatch program managed by Mote Marine Laboratory and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The northernmost one-third of the Florida Reef Tract is in the SEAFAN BleachWatch program’s jurisdiction, beginning at the end of Biscayne National Park, and ending at the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge. BleachWatch consists of a combination of oceanographic data and field observations recorded by an Observer Network made up of trained volunteers and scientists that are used to generate a Current Conditions Report monthly, weekly, or bi-weekly, depending on conditions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Coral Reef Watch is used to predict likelihood of future bleaching events and alerts are sent out to the Observer Network if a risk of bleaching is deemed. Participants then complete and submit data sheets to be used in the next Current Conditions Report. In 2019, three such reports were generated in July, September, and October. Sea surface temperatures remained consistently above monthly averages in two-thirds of the reports, and bleaching and disease were consistently reported, especially in Broward County. However, participation was low, with only nineteen data sheets being submitted over the entire annual period. More participation and submitted data sheets are greatly needed for more accurate results and better analysis. Still, the program has helped to improve scientific understanding regarding the timing, distribution, and severity of disease and bleaching in southeast Florida. It also gives citizen scientists the chance to be involved in collecting data to enable the restoration of their local reefs and enables assessment of the health of the Florida Reef Tract while providing an outlook for potential future events. Current Condition Reports aid in making responsible management decisions by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary regarding Florida’s beautiful and invaluable coral reef ecosystems.
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Date Issued: 2020-06-15
Identifier: BC743
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC743

Title: Miamian Ohio’s state soil.
Name/Creator: Williams, Kristin Anne
Abstract/Description: Originally named part of the Miami soil series, in 1969 Miamian soil was separated. Miamian is found in the central lowland till plains in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. It is formed from Wisconsinan till in the till plains and moraines under deciduous hardwood forests. Miamian is an Alfisol, and a fine, mixed, active, mesic Oxyaquic Hapludalfs. It is composed of moderately well drained, loess or silty material and underlying loamy till. It has a moderate amount of organic matter and is well...
Show moreOriginally named part of the Miami soil series, in 1969 Miamian soil was separated. Miamian is found in the central lowland till plains in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. It is formed from Wisconsinan till in the till plains and moraines under deciduous hardwood forests. Miamian is an Alfisol, and a fine, mixed, active, mesic Oxyaquic Hapludalfs. It is composed of moderately well drained, loess or silty material and underlying loamy till. It has a moderate amount of organic matter and is well leached of calcium carbonate. The A horizon contains: Silt 39-49%, 11-18% clay, 38-46% sand. The typical pedon contains the following horizons: an Ap (brown silt loam), 2Bt1 (clay loam), 2Bt2 (clay loam), 2Bt3 (clay), 2BC (loam), and a 2Cd (loam). Other horizons can be found but are not always present. Miamian is named as Ohio’s state soil because of the important role it plays in agriculture. Almost all this soil series has been converted to broad acreage agriculture and makes highly productive farmland. Corn, soybeans, winter wheat, and oats are the prime crops, while forages, pastures and hardwood forest trees are more common on steeper slopes. Miamian soil is usually found on convex slopes and has good rainfall, both of which make it highly suspectable to erosion. The use of no till planting, cover crops and crop rotation have all been used to prevent erosion. The A horizon is often to acidic 5.4 to grow corn, so liming agents are frequently used to bring up the pH closer to 6. Miamian soil is well drained and is not suited for filtering liquids, such as with septic tanks.
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Date Issued: 2020-06-15
Identifier: BC741
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC741

Title: How will the predicted ocean temperatures of 2100, impact larval development of Lobatus (Strombus) gigas in the Caribbean region?.
Name/Creator: Pollard, Madison Jane
Abstract/Description: In the Caribbean region, calcareous shelled organisms are at risk of inhibited larval development (e.g., shell growth and mortality) at high ocean temperatures. Given predicted sea-surface temperatures due to global climate change for the year 2100 (by the IPCC and NOAA) researchers are predicting at what temperatures these changes could affect larval development of Queen conch, Lobatus (Strombus) gigas. Carbon emissions from human activities (e.g., burning of fossil fuels) are affecting...
Show moreIn the Caribbean region, calcareous shelled organisms are at risk of inhibited larval development (e.g., shell growth and mortality) at high ocean temperatures. Given predicted sea-surface temperatures due to global climate change for the year 2100 (by the IPCC and NOAA) researchers are predicting at what temperatures these changes could affect larval development of Queen conch, Lobatus (Strombus) gigas. Carbon emissions from human activities (e.g., burning of fossil fuels) are affecting marine organisms at multiple trophic levels due to ocean warming and acidification. L. gigas was abundant in their geographic range of the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and around Bermuda, now with a combination of overharvesting and global climate change, conchs are candidates for the Endangered Species Act. As CO2 increases in the ocean, carbonate for calcium carbonate production decreases. L. gigas will use more energy to produce their shells (stunting growth rates) or opt for weaker shells. Researchers (Aranda and Manzano) reared L.gigas eggs from hatchling to settlement under five temperatures (28, 28.5, 29, 29.5, 30℃) to assess growth and development. At 30 ℃ larvae experienced faster growth rates, but survival was low (23%). While at 28 ℃ larvae had the highest survival (35%). Temperature seemed to have more of a direct impact on earlier stages of larvae of L. gigas than those closest to settlement. Queen conchs are economically important for their commercial value, being the second largest fishery in the Caribbean. Ocean warming and acidification would cause a decrease in harvest, changing prices for consumers. Urgent action against reducing greenhouse gas emissions must be taken. The Caribbean can mitigate contribution to greenhouse gases by renewable energy since it is an area that has great potential for hydro-electric, geothermal, wind and solar energy. This in turn could reduce the impacts to L. gigas larval development.
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Date Issued: 2021-04-21
Identifier: BC3356
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC3356

Title: Generation of tsunamis from earthquakes: a literature review.
Name/Creator: Naum, Miranda
Abstract/Description: Tsunamis are some of the most incredible yet devastating forces of mother nature. Their sheer and immense power is something of fascination. Earthquakes are primarily responsible for the generation of these massive waves. But what exactly is the link between earthquakes and tsunamis? Tsunamis are a series of ocean waves produced by the displacement of great volumes of water. The displacement of water is typically caused by submarine earthquakes. These earthquakes deform the seafloor, causing...
Show moreTsunamis are some of the most incredible yet devastating forces of mother nature. Their sheer and immense power is something of fascination. Earthquakes are primarily responsible for the generation of these massive waves. But what exactly is the link between earthquakes and tsunamis? Tsunamis are a series of ocean waves produced by the displacement of great volumes of water. The displacement of water is typically caused by submarine earthquakes. These earthquakes deform the seafloor, causing the sudden dislocation of a few to tens of cubic kilometers of water. Approximately 80% of tsunamis are the result of underwater earthquakes. Modern methods of studying the relationship between earthquakes and tsunamis involve the use of virtual laboratories, computational models, physical models, kinematic models, and dislocation models. Large tsunamis require substantial parent earthquakes because more than 96% of their energy is stored in the ocean. The resulting tsunami is a means of releasing energy. The larger the earthquake, the larger the proceeding tsunami will be. Though less than 1% of an earthquake’s energy is actually converted into tsunamis, the energy is capable of generating deadly and catastrophic tsunamis. Further investigation may be proposed to analyze other causes of tsunamis, such as submarine landslides.
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Date Issued: 2021-04-21
Identifier: BC3359
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC3359

Title: Florida’s infamous invaders: the impact of the green iguana in South Florida.
Name/Creator: Santiago, Paris
Abstract/Description: Since the 1960’s, south Florida has become an ideal habitat to the green iguana (Iguana iguana), a species that is not native to the region or state. Their introduction to Miami-Dade county is a result of the under-regulated pet trade, and the effects of this have been felt at an increasing intensity in the last five decades. Though most invasive species that garner the level of attention from the public and wildlife officials alike pose a direct threat to the native flora and fauna, the...
Show moreSince the 1960’s, south Florida has become an ideal habitat to the green iguana (Iguana iguana), a species that is not native to the region or state. Their introduction to Miami-Dade county is a result of the under-regulated pet trade, and the effects of this have been felt at an increasing intensity in the last five decades. Though most invasive species that garner the level of attention from the public and wildlife officials alike pose a direct threat to the native flora and fauna, the largest issue regarding the green iguana is the damages to structures and private property. Iguanas are able to succeed so greatly in South Florida due to the tropical climate and increasingly warmer winters (the coldest average temperature for January, the harshest winter month is at 65* Fahrenheit, currently). These ideal temperatures for prolonged periods paired with the lack of any enemy in the environment allow for iguana numbers to increase, almost entirely without bounds. With consistently warming climates, habitats can become suitable to invaders that can cause damage to native species and create socio-economic disasters Though the state allows the killing of iguanas by private property owners, this solution is now effective against the exponential growth the species experiences each year. With proper enforcement of fair and legal pet trading, education on invasive species and their impacts, and ethical relocation efforts to areas where expensive damages cannot be carried out easily, the invasion may see a slowdown. If efforts are made to reduce practices that expedite climate change, the ability for non-native and invasive species to spread and adapt to new potential habitat ranges will be reduced as well.
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Date Issued: 2021-04-21
Identifier: BC3357
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC3357

Title: Evaluating different methods to determine a cause for reproductive failure in Lobatus gigas.
Name/Creator: Pollard, Madison Jane
Abstract/Description: Queen conch (Lobatus gigas) have been experiencing low reproduction rates throughout their distribution. Imposex female conchs have been observed with male verges in the British Virgin Islands and have been linked to areas of high boating activity. While in the Florida Keys, reduced reproduction has been linked to Lobatus gigas located in nearshore habitats. This literature review will evaluate the most effective method to determine a cause for reproductive failure in Lobatus gigas. In the...
Show moreQueen conch (Lobatus gigas) have been experiencing low reproduction rates throughout their distribution. Imposex female conchs have been observed with male verges in the British Virgin Islands and have been linked to areas of high boating activity. While in the Florida Keys, reduced reproduction has been linked to Lobatus gigas located in nearshore habitats. This literature review will evaluate the most effective method to determine a cause for reproductive failure in Lobatus gigas. In the British Virgin Islands, Cassander Titley-O’Neal analyzed imposex females and performed a butylin analysis on the digestive glands and food resources within the habitat the conch were collected. Titley-O’Neal recognized imposex morphology in Lobatus gigas and collected samples based on these features in areas of high boating activity, using reproductively normal conch from areas of low boating activity as reference. Gabriel Delgado compared the gonadal tissue and cerebral ganglia cell diameter and density of non-imposex queen conch offshore and nearshore in the Florida Keys. In the La Parguera area of Puerto Rico, Shawna E. Reed compared the gonads of imposex females to normal female conch gonads. Low concentrations of Tributyltin (TBT) in the turtle grass and marine algae samples taken by Titley-O’Neal, suggested food source is not enough uptake of TBT to cause imposex in Lobatus gigas. The presence of TBT was found in both male and female digestive glands, and in all sites, except one reference site, Anegada, but was highest in boating active sites. Concentration of Tributyltin was observed to be higher in male conch compared to females of the same area. The nearshore male and female queen conch of the Florida Keys were found to have less than 50% developed gametogenic tissue resulting in more than half being sexually inactive. The offshore population were observed to be highly reproductive with over 50% developed oogenic tissue in females and over 75% spermatogenic tissue in males. Delgado concluded that there appears to be abnormalities in the cerebral ganglion (c.g. responsible for hormone production) and deficiencies in the gonads of nearshore conch, both associated with reproduction. Given there was no environmental samples taken, there is no confirmed environmental or physical source for the cause of the abnormality in nearshore conch, other than the closer geographic proximity to anthropogenic factors. Reed compared imposex gonads to the gonads of normal reproducing females and determined no difference in sexual tissue. Imposex females demonstrated no male-like behavior. One imposex female was collected near an egg mass and had emptied signet cells, indicating successful reproduction. After evaluating each method, it appears abnormalities in cerebral ganglia, and deficiencies in gonads have been more successful in providing reason for reproductive failure in Lobatus gigas, compared to looking at masculinized females. Imposex has not yet been proven to have a negative effect on conch reproduction other than hypothesized issues regarding eggs masses as of present. Further study in the spawning of normal and imposex queen conch, with specific attention to their egg masses and habits, can potentially link imposex to failing reproduction among aggregations. Butlytin analysis on the gonads of queen conch may determine a link between Tributyltin concentration and delay in gametogenic tissues. Further research in water quality and sediment sampling to detect TBT in habitats of Lobatus gigas spawning.
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Date Issued: 2020-06-15
Identifier: BC745
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC745

Title: Establishing a Long term Monitoring Plan for Hallandale Beach, Florida Nearshore Coral Reef Habitats.
Name/Creator: Pollard, Madison Jane
Abstract/Description: The city of Hallandale Beach, Florida adopted the “Our Local Coral Reef Protection Ordinance” in June of 2019, with plans to restore their coastline and protect the community from future storm surges. Ordinance No. 2019 1- 011 added sections 5 to 8 in Chapter 13 "Health and Sanitation" of the city of Hallandale Beach code of ordinances, which outline strategies to protect and restore the resilience of the nearshore coral reef. Complex coral reef systems bring higher biodiversity and will...
Show moreThe city of Hallandale Beach, Florida adopted the “Our Local Coral Reef Protection Ordinance” in June of 2019, with plans to restore their coastline and protect the community from future storm surges. Ordinance No. 2019 1- 011 added sections 5 to 8 in Chapter 13 "Health and Sanitation" of the city of Hallandale Beach code of ordinances, which outline strategies to protect and restore the resilience of the nearshore coral reef. Complex coral reef systems bring higher biodiversity and will raise the economic value of the reef to tourism. The length of Hallandale Beach shoreline is approximately 0.80mi (4200ft). Acropora cervicornis (Staghorn coral), a critically endanger species, is said to be found ½ mile off the coast of Hallandale Beach and is an important reef-building species to be monitored. This proposal will establish a long-term monitoring plan and baseline for the nearshore coral reef based on the Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA) protocols. It will briefly outline procedures needed to accomplish the three different monitoring surveys and important indicators each SCUBA diver will be required to record. Corals are the primary builders of reef habitats and they benefit from the presence of reef fish and benthic organisms. Reef fish have different eating habits that promote positive structure changes such as, keeping turf algae in check clearing room for recruitment of polyps. Benthic promotors such as, crustose coralline algae and minimal turf algae encourage a healthy reef habitat. According to a map of Broward County, Florida reef structure created by Brain Walker, the linear reef inner begins about 0.80 mi (4200ft) and the liner reef middle ends at about 1.75mi (9240ft) from the shore. There appears to be no linear outer reef off the coast of Hallandale Beach. There is no previous baseline to compare future surveyed data or confirm presence and density of diver sighted Acropora cervicornis. Baselines are important historical data that enables the city to identify changes in the complexity of the reef structure and responses to climate change to make proactive decisions. An initial baseline of Hallandale’s reef will be made to be comparable with future monitoring data, as well as determine the effectiveness of the management plans in place. AGGRA protocols require a minimum of six divers and with the use of city vendors, equipment costs can be as low as 230 dollars. Without a coral reef, the city may face costly damages from natural disasters such as hurricanes. Coral Reefs provide protection against storm surges that without, coastal erosion would increase and leave the city without an offshore defense against high energy wave action. AGRRA protocols will be applied to create a basic level survey easily adaptable, this will provide community building and outreach opportunities through citizen science and volunteering.
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Date Issued: 2020-06-15
Identifier: BC746
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC746

Title: Determining the extent of saltwater influence on groundwater in Dr. Von D. Mizell Eula Johnson State Park.
Name/Creator: Deitsch, Adam Michael
Abstract/Description: Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park is a barrier island off the coast of Dania Beach, Florida. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, with the brackish Whiskey Creek transecting the park from north to south, the park is home to several coastal ecosystems and poses an unique opportunity to collect valuable data to assess the impact of sea-level rise on the distinct ecological communities within. The park is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental...
Show moreDr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park is a barrier island off the coast of Dania Beach, Florida. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, with the brackish Whiskey Creek transecting the park from north to south, the park is home to several coastal ecosystems and poses an unique opportunity to collect valuable data to assess the impact of sea-level rise on the distinct ecological communities within. The park is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Division of Recreation and Parks. Goals for the park management and protection include protecting the water quality and quantity in the park (including restoring hydrology to a feasible level), as well as restoring and maintaining the natural communities within the park. As studies have shown, changes of the salinity in the groundwater and surrounding soils can affect the viability of coastal forest habitats and cause a shift in ecotones. To this date, there have been no detailed studies on the extent of the groundwater dynamics within the park. With three bodies of water with differing salinity surrounding the park, the geological design should create four independent zones of saline lensing around the freshwater lenses within the two segments of the island. Installation of piezometers in east-west transects at regular increments from the north to the south could allow for the mapping of the transition from saline to freshwater within the park. Subsequent sampling and testing of temperature, salinity, and water depth, as well as other ambient factors, over a complete lunar cycle, would provide critical data in determining the extent of the tides and sea-level rise on park’s freshwater-saltwater interface. Understanding this dynamic flux is vital in preservation and restoration management plans, especially involving protection and reestablishment of at-risk or endangered species. This research will provide insight into predictable changes in the park’s communities. This knowledge can be incorporated into established Florida Department of Environmental Protection management and monitoring plan. Establishing long-term groundwater monitoring protocols can influence future protection and restoration projects with ground truth data. If successful, this type of monitoring can be expanded to other state parks of similar coastal geomorphological features.
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Date Issued: 2020-06-15
Identifier: BC747
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC747

Title: Delaware state soil - Greenwich.
Name/Creator: Gazdick, Kaitlin
Abstract/Description: The predominate soil order in Delaware is Ultisols. They are located in mostly humid, temperate, and tropical areas that are in older and more stable parts of the world. An accumulation of clay can be found on the top layer. They consist of weathered, acid forest soils, low in calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These elements are present in soil as ions forming cation exchange capacity that is often reduced due to leaching and take up 9.2 percent of the total United States land area. The...
Show moreThe predominate soil order in Delaware is Ultisols. They are located in mostly humid, temperate, and tropical areas that are in older and more stable parts of the world. An accumulation of clay can be found on the top layer. They consist of weathered, acid forest soils, low in calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These elements are present in soil as ions forming cation exchange capacity that is often reduced due to leaching and take up 9.2 percent of the total United States land area. The state soil of Delaware is Greenwich, and it is the most significant and prevalent soil in the state. Greenwich is located on uplands of the coastal plain and consists of 123,000+ acres and takes up 9.4 percent of land in Delaware. The parent material is sandy alluvial sediments, transported by water, from the Atlantic Coastal Plain overlain with deposits high silt bothwind-blown, and water transported sediment. The warm humid climate in which Greenwich developed, causes leaching due to abundant rainfall. Leaves, twigs, roots, and other plant material on the surface of pine forests degrade into the soil. The soil horizon is described as having a topsoil of brown loam that is 10 inches thick brown loam. The upper subsoil is strong brown loam, and the lower subsoil is yellowish brown sandy loam. The substratum is yellowish brown coarse sand stratified with dark yellowish brown loamy sand. Greenwich is a productive soil used for crops such as vegetables and forest products. It is also often used for construction and recreational development.
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Date Issued: 2021-04-21
Identifier: BC3352
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC3352

Title: AGRRA protocols and coral reef health in the Caribbean.
Name/Creator: Quintana, Arely
Abstract/Description: The objective of The Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA) coral monitoring is to assess the size and overall condition of corals ≥ 4 cm to help evaluate important structural and functional attributes of tropical western Atlantic coral reefs. Data collected can provide information representative of large areas, like shelves, islands, countries or ecoregions. The coral monitoring surveys can be performed by snorkeling (
Show moreThe objective of The Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA) coral monitoring is to assess the size and overall condition of corals ≥ 4 cm to help evaluate important structural and functional attributes of tropical western Atlantic coral reefs. Data collected can provide information representative of large areas, like shelves, islands, countries or ecoregions. The coral monitoring surveys can be performed by snorkeling (< 1.5 m), but SCUBA is now recommended for most assessments with diver expertise ranging from novice to highly trained. Survey sites should be chosen randomly within a geomorphic zone of a reef on an insular or continental shelf within one of twelve marine shelf ecoregions of the Tropical Northwestern province of the Tropical Atlantic biogeographic realm. The spatial extent of a site is about 200 m x 200 m and zones of maximum reef development are highly recommended. Recording of exact location using GPS is critical for data quality and consistency. Surveys are completed to assess coral health, recruitments, size, and species. Although single metrics are insufficient to measure whole coral system health due to the highly dynamic nature of reefs, the information collected can indirectly measure environmental quality of the reef and assist in understanding the effects of local and regional stressors. The use of trained volunteer divers whether amateur or professional provides a wealth of information in a cost friendly manner and the data collected from over 3,000 surveys is available in an open-access public database. Information collected from monitoring surveys has become a key source of scientific data used in other research programs, reef policies, legislation, management and conservation.
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Date Issued: 2021-04-21
Identifier: BC3355
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC3355

Title: A literature review of ocean acidification’s effect on coral calcification rates and skeletal growth.
Name/Creator: Camden, Lauren
Abstract/Description: Ocean acidification is one of many threats to marine life as a result of increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide being absorbed by ocean water. Anthropogenic levels of carbon dioxide have been rising dramatically in the atmosphere since the onset of the Industrial Revolution, with a sharp escalation occurring due to practices such as the burning of fossil fuels. The ocean acts as a carbon sink for atmospheric CO2, absorbing a large portion of it. This process causes a chemical...
Show moreOcean acidification is one of many threats to marine life as a result of increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide being absorbed by ocean water. Anthropogenic levels of carbon dioxide have been rising dramatically in the atmosphere since the onset of the Industrial Revolution, with a sharp escalation occurring due to practices such as the burning of fossil fuels. The ocean acts as a carbon sink for atmospheric CO2, absorbing a large portion of it. This process causes a chemical reaction that progressively lowers the average pH of oceans globally. When a carbon dioxide molecule is absorbed into sea water, two positively charged ions are produced. As pH value is a measurement of hydrogen ion concentration in any given solution, these added hydrogen ions effectively lower the pH of the ocean and causes it to be more acidic. Since these hydrogen ions are positively charged, they to interact with the negatively charged bases already present in the ocean. One of these bases is CaCO3, or the carbonate ion. Carbonate is essential to calcifying marine organisms, who use this ion to build and maintain their shells and skeletons. However, as atmospheric carbon dioxide levels increase and the resulting chemical reactions occur, the ocean’s carbonate saturation decreases. Coral is one such calcifying organism that essential to the aquatic ecosystem in a number of ways, most of which can be attributed to the fact that coral reefs are one of the planet’s most biodiverse ecosystems despite inhabiting only a very small portion of the ocean. With this process occurring at accumulative speeds, how will ocean acidification affect the calcification rates- and therefore the growth and development- of coral in the coming years worldwide? Several studies have confirmed the relationship between increased carbon dioxide levels and the resulting decreased calcification levels and structural deformities present in coral reefs. In 2005 Langdon et al published a study that tested coral calcification rates with varying rates of carbon dioxide saturation in ocean water. Specimens of Porites compressa (finger coral) and Montipora verucosa (rice coral) were collected off the coast of Hawaii and placed in an offshore experimental flume where a series of incubations were performed in Summer 1999 and Winter 2000. From August to September 1999, eighteen incubations were performed with ambient conditions and nine incubations were performed with pCO2 levels at 1.7 times what ambient conditions were. A second round of fifteen incubations were performed from January to February 2000. Six incubations were done at an ambient pCO2, two were done at 1.4 times, and six were done at 2.0 times ambient conditions. Calcification rates for all incubations were calculated through statistical analysis. As a result, calcification decreased 26%, 40%, and 80% respectively to increased pCO2. Another such study was conducted by Langdon et al again in 2013, this time in the Florida Bay. Samples of Siderastrea radians (shallow starlet coral) and Solenastrea hyades (smooth star coral) were collected near Peterson Key and attached to cinderblocks with sensors logging environmental data such as pH and temperature at thirty-minute intervals. A random subset of these corals was incubated in situ and given a treatment regime designed to simulate increased ocean acidification conditions. This treatment lowered pH value in the incubation chambers by 0.1 to 0.2 units. Calcification rates of the incubated coral samples were determined through statistical analysis. Coral samples that experienced a 0.1 unit drop in pH value experienced decreased calcification rates of 50% and coral samples that experiences a 0.2 unit drop in pH value experienced a decreased calcification rate of 52%. These studies both exemplified the strong correlation that exists between pCO2 present, increased acidity in ocean water, and decreased calcification rates of coral. In 2016, Foster et al published a study that demonstrated the structural deformities coral experience as a result of this calcification reduct.
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Date Issued: 2020-06-15
Identifier: BC742
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC742

Title: A case study of ocean acidification and South Florida’s coral reefs.
Name/Creator: Camden, Lauren
Abstract/Description: Levels of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide have been increasing dramatically in the atmosphere since the onset of the Industrial Revolution with a sharp escalation occurring due to anthropogenic causes such as the burning of fossil fuels. The ocean acts as a carbon sink for this atmospheric CO2, absorbing a large majority of it. This process causes a chemical reaction that has been increasing the acidity level of ocean water and progressively lowering the average pH value. When a carbon...
Show moreLevels of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide have been increasing dramatically in the atmosphere since the onset of the Industrial Revolution with a sharp escalation occurring due to anthropogenic causes such as the burning of fossil fuels. The ocean acts as a carbon sink for this atmospheric CO2, absorbing a large majority of it. This process causes a chemical reaction that has been increasing the acidity level of ocean water and progressively lowering the average pH value. When a carbon dioxide molecule is absorbed into sea water, two positively charged ions are produced. Because pH value is a measurement of hydrogen ion concentration in any given solution, these added hydrogen ions effectively lower the pH value of the ocean. Since these hydrogen ions are positively charged, they go on to interact with the negatively charged bases already present in the ocean. One of these bases is CaCO3, or the carbonate ion. Carbonate is essential to calcifying marine organisms, who use this ion to build and maintain their shells and skeletons. However, as atmospheric carbon dioxide levels increase and the resulting chemical reactions occur, the ocean’s carbonate saturation decreases. Coral is one such calcifying organism that essential to the aquatic ecosystem in a number of ways, most of which can be attributed to the fact that coral reefs are one of the planet’s most biodiverse ecosystems despite inhabiting only a very small portion of the ocean. Several studies have linked coral’s carbonate production to their ability to create functional skeletons. One such study was published by Kuffner et al in 2013 in the Florida Keys. Four sites ranging from Miami to the Dry Tortugas were selected, and two batches of forty Siderastrea siderea (massive starlet coral) each were selected for two experimental runs. At six-month intervals, these samples were analyzed to determine linear expansion rates and calcification levels. After analysis in both runs, a strong correlation between linear expansion rates and calcification levels was determined. Corals that experienced heightened calcification rates also experienced heightened linear expansion. This experiment solidified the negative affect ocean acidification will have in future years on coral reefs if left unacknowledged. Langdon et al also published an experiment done in the Florida Keys in 2013 that determined a relationship between increased atmospheric CO2 levels and decreased calcification rates of coral. Eleven samples of a combination of Siderastrea radians (shallow water starlet coral) and Solenastrea hyades (smooth star coral) were epoxied to cinderblocks with sensors recording environmental data at thirty-minute intervals. Random samples were incubated in tanks in situ and given a treatment regime designed to simulate increased ocean acidification conditions through chemical injections of NaHCO3 (sodium bicarbonate) and HCl (hydrogen chloride). This treatment lowered pH value in the incubation chambers by 0.1 to 0.2 units. Calcification rates of the incubated coral samples were determined through statistical analysis. Coral samples that experienced a 0.1 unit drop in pH value experienced decreased calcification rates of 50% and coral samples that experiences a 0.2 unit drop in pH value experienced a decreased calcification rate of 52%. Both of these studies combined showcases the two-part threat ocean acidification is placing on coral reefs in the Florida Keys. As the average pH of ocean water drops, corals are unable to achieve net carbonate accretion and calcification rates drop. This causes corals to experience stunted linear expansion, density, rugosity, and reproduction rates. As coral population dwindles, Florida will experience several negative socio-economic impacts such as diminished coastal protection from storms, tourism, income and jobs created by fisheries, and medicinal opportunities as new life-saving medicines will no longer be able to be harvested from dying reefs. Mitigation and adaptation methods must include reducing other local stressors to coral.
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Date Issued: 2020-06-15
Identifier: BC744
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/broward/fd/BC744

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