The purpose of this field study was to investigate and observe the interactions between abiotic and biotic factors within the Homebush Bay mangrove ecosystem. Additionally, the human impacts and natural factors were also considered in the change and variation of different aspects of the environment. The students were able to measure and record many factors such as salinity, pH, wind speed and temperature of abiotic features within the environment as well as using different sampling techniques to determine the abundance and distribution of numerous organisms. It was clear that each factor was influenced by many things, including weather, location, time and any human influence.
Through the use of a transect, it was evident that the height and size of different trees (such as the mangroves, casuarina and salt marsh) changed as we moved through the area. Besides this, as a result of using quadrats, the abundance of seedlings and crab holes was determined, the factor of food availability and water levels greatly impacting the numbers.
Through the use of a transect, it was evident that the height and size of different trees (such as the mangroves, casuarina and salt marsh) changed as we moved through the area. Besides this, as a result of using quadrats, the abundance of seedlings and crab holes was determined, the factor of food availability and water levels greatly impacting the numbers.