Paul Pratt
Everett Community College
Project: Using Crab Eggs and Larvae to Study Effects of Ocean Acidification
Summary: "My project involved studying the effects of ocean acidification on the larval development of the shore crab Hemigrapsus oregonensis. I tested an experimental set-up that simulated natural acidification processes by increasing the level of carbon dioxide dissolved in the sea water. I found that increased CO2 had no effect on the rotifer that was used as prey for the larval crabs. Previous exposure to increased CO2 during egg development may reduce survival of crab larvae, but accelerate larval development. Direct exposure of larvae to increased CO2 had no effect on survival, but again accelerated development. My study suggests that larval crabs may be susceptible to the effects of increased CO2 and that further research is needed."
My Experience: "This summer I learned a lot about how research is conducted, including how to set up controlled experiments. I also learned about the breadth of marine science topics that are studied at a marine laboratory and specifically about my topic in ocean acidification. Communicating science was also emphasized and I learned a lot from listening to senior scientists and other students who were giving presentations. I presented my work to a group of 30 day camp eighth graders, an experience that was useful in that I needed to develop a talk that was interesting and informative to an audience that had no background in the subject. I also learned a lot of new scientific techniques, including many that I did not involve directly in my project. Most importantly, I learned more about scientific careers and what I need to do to prepare myself. It was a great experience and I would recommend it to any student who is interested in learning more about marine science and about how to do research."
Mentor: Dr. Stephen Sulkin, Director and Professor, Shannon Point Marine Center, Western Washington University
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