Winogradsky Column Update 11/9

The columns are beginning to show some separation in the stratification levels. The biggest changes being in our control column. This control had no salinity added to it,which begs the question, can the salt have that much of an impact on an ecosystem? In the control we have growth on top of the water, in the water, and under the water. This is classic stratification as seen in the wild. If I were Steve Irwin, I would definitely proclaim this sample, "She's a Beaut!"

We then start to move up the salinity scale and things start to change. In the 4% salinity column, stratification begins to disappear... There is no longer the green top growth and the water changes to a mucky brown color. This could show that the addition of salinity, changes the growth patterns and the wavelength of light used for organisms to grow. At 8%, the water begins to clear and a firm black/brown color begins to develop between the aquatic layer and the sediment. This growth still uses light but not much it seems... We finally arrive at the 12% salinity, we still have that dark brown/ black color of organisms under the aquatic layer but its minimal. It seems we have extremely limited the growth nutrients but as always... Life finds a way.

-Thomas

P.S. Check out the observation as seen through my eyes below!

Figure 1.1 - Control Column (No Salinity)

Figure 1.2 - 4% Salinity Column 

Figure 1.3 - 8% Salinity Column

Figure 1.4 - 12% Salinity Column

Figure 1.5 - The whole gang with their favorite view