After breakfast, we headed to the toucan classroom to learn how we should proceed with our research project. In groups of three, we began brainstorming how we could utilize the activities we had done throughout the week and the unique environment of Monteverde for our research.
As we began preparing to collect data for our research questions, we took a short exploratory hike through parts of campus we hadn’t seen before. The goal was to scout potential sampling locations and think critically about where we could gather the most meaningful data. Along the way, we passed coffee and banana plantations, which added another layer to our understanding of how land use might influence the surrounding ecosystem. After lunch, we shifted from planning to action and focused on collecting our samples from selected sites around campus.
Ipek, Sophie, and Evangeline collected invertebrates from a nearby river and tested the survival times of mayflies in different environments.
Dalia, Sophia, and Nina looked through the trees in different locations to analyze and compare the epiphytes.
Tanisi, Nandita, and Danyel compared monoculture and polyculture in coffee plantations on campus to determine the role zoning plays in soil health.
Elizabeth, Rachel, and Lillian collected bromeliads in different locations and compared insect abundance and diversity.
Joann, Daniella, and Lucy observed leaf-cutter ant adaptations to obstacles and analyzed their behaviors.
Eunice, Johana, and Amna studied leaf-cutter ants and how a scent or color obstacle may affect their travel time back to the colony.
Aiden and Claire analyzed several quadrats in forest and roadside environments to observe correlations between plant diversity and the magnitude of human traffic.
Our dinner that night consisted of cannelloni with cheese, salad, beans, rice, watermelon juice, and delicious cookies for dessert. The day came to a close as we sang karaoke songs and danced to Bad Bunny, Shakira , and Rasputin while following Just Dance videos before heading to bed.
