SEE-U 2000: Atlantic Forest - Module 09:Exercise 09

General Methadology for Instructors and TAs
## Exercise 9: Edge Effects on Selected Aspects of Forest Microclimate Module 9: Light and Temperature Printer format Background Lecture: On microclimatic factors and edge effects (Barbour, et al. Terrestrial Plant Ecology; Kimmins, Forest Ecology) Activities in the experiment: Establish transect and sampling points Collection of abiotic data - radiation intensity and temperature Data analysis (correlation) Hypotheses to test There is a temperature gradient from the forest edge inward, but should stabilize with distance. The question is what distance. Independent variables in the experiment Distance from forest edge Height of forest canopy Dependent variables that they could use in their experimental design. Radiation intensity Temperature Relative humidity? Student evaluation Based on presentation of results (written and oral) Preparation notes Data should be collected between 1100 and 1300 to minimize effects of sun angle. Lab is not practical if raining. Work in 2 groups. Other possibilities: Comparison between transects from forest edge inward and transects in an undisturbed portion of the forest Comparison of gap versus intact forest