Jasmine Palmer
Edmonds Community College
Project: Determining the Significance of Pea Crab Larvae in Summer Plankton Assemblages
Summary:
My research this summer involved the study of the larval stages of Pinnotherid crabs, a group of crabs that live commensally with other invertebrates. I collected plankton samples and determined the proportion by weight and total carbon content of these pinnotherid larvae and how they related to other crab larvae and the remainder of the samples. I examined potential host organisms and found the horse clam contained egg-bearing females of the species Pinnixa faba. I raised the larvae of P. faba in the laboratory and tested the effects of diet on larval development. I found that there was a significant difference among broods in their ability to withstand starvation, that those vulnerable to starvation gained nutrition from ingesting algae, and that the rotifer was a good diet for the early larval stages.
My Experience: "During my COSEE internship, I have grown greatly in my scientific knowledge and have learned much about what it means to be a marine scientist. This has motivated me to put in whatever effort is needed to pursue future research positions to further my career in marine biology. I learned about how to conduct controlled research experiments and the significance of effective scientific communication. I am now more knowledgeable about the commitment of time and effort needed to be a scientist, what to expect from fellow students and mentors, and how to deal with the challenges that research creates. Perhaps most importantly, I learned about the many marine science careers available and the different paths faculty have taken to become scientists. All of these experiences have been valuable to me and I would recommend becoming a PRIME intern to any student interested in marine science who is willing to work hard."
Mentor: Mentor: Dr. Stephen Sulkin, Director and Professor, Shannon Point Marine Center, Western Washington University
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