Study of a Woodland/Pond Area - Group D:  Biotic Factors (Decomposition)

by Judith D. Jones  teacher East Chapel Hill High School 

Names: 

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Look for as many molds, fungi, and lichens as you can find. Bring back samples for identification. Describe what you have found below. 

Description of fungi, etc.

Fungus  Identification	Description of Fungus

Locate the following stages of decomposition succession.

1. dead tree still standing 
2. dead tree that has recently fallen 
3. log with a rotten core but firm exterior 
4. totally rotten log

Find a rotten log to examine; you can use a trowel to break it open to see the organisms that live inside. Make a list and describe what you find. Note whether these are fungi, mosses, lichens, or plants. Are there any invertebrates? Are there nesting sites. What does the log smell like? Does decomposition appear to be occurring? What is the color of the log? Is there tunneling in the log? Is the log moist or dry?

YOUR DESCRIPTION OF THE ROTTEN LOG (you may use sketches; you must provide details!):