Lab: (U4 M1) Tabletop Lab Plant Diversity
Examining plant diversity is challenging in an online class, since observing diversity often requires a variety of plant specimens to examine for comparison. In order to have to a robust tour of the plant kingdom, you will need to tap into several resources that are available to you. Your first and most important resource is the natural habitat around you. Whenever possible, seek out live specimens you are being asked to examine from your surrounding area. It is easiest to make connections to the material with plants that you see and interact with every day. When your best efforts to obtain a live specimen fail, the Internet is your second best resource. Search for images as needed, just be sure that you are viewing the correct structures.
You will need to collect the following specimens and several "at home" supplies. Be sure to have these on hand when you are ready to start this Lab:
- Moss with mature gametophytes (Brownish capsules extending above the leafy green surface of the plant)
- Fern specimen with mature sporangia (Spore clusters on the underside of the fern frond)
- Male and Female fir cones
- Kitchen knife and cutting board
- 1 fresh lily flower – purchased fresh from grocery store or florist
You will need one document to complete this Lab:
Tabletop Lab Procedures - Plant Diversity (Google Doc)
- It is recommended that you print out this Lab to keep handy as you complete the Lab Report.
CU4 M1 Lab Report (Google Doc)
- Once compelte, you will submit this document for grading.