The Boothbay Sea and Science Center’s “Exploring the Science of Seaweed Farming” project has sparked the interest of a Medomak High School sophomore who is now studying the relationship between water temperature and rates of seaweed growth.
Anna Weber, a student in Mrs. Jennifer Hatch’s Honors Biology class, is studying “Ocean Acidification and its Effects on Marine Life.” Pauline Dion, Executive Director of the Boothbay Sea and Science Center, is providing Anna with the resources and assistance needed for this project.
The question that Anna seeks to answer is: How does an increase in water temperature affect sugar kelp’s rate of CO2 absorption?
Her hypothesis: Because Kelp thrives in a specific temperature range, I predict that increasing the temperature of the water will decrease Kelp’s productivity and its ability to absorb CO2.
Anna’s research is being conducted using Sugar Kelp seedlings (Saccharina latissima), three 30-gallon tanks containing 25 gallons of filtered seawater from Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, 2 chillers, 2 UV sterilizers, a heater, and other related equipment — all provided by the Boothbay Sea and Science Center.
One tank is being kept at 59 degrees F; a second at 63 degrees F and a third is at 70 degrees F. The kelp has been growing since January 27.
Anna will be reporting her results at her high school March 16 Science Fair.
