ParameciumCaudatum as a Bioindicator of Pollution
The purpose of this experiment was to determine the viability of Paramecium Caudatum as bioindicators of pollution. A three variable Design of Experiment method was used in order to allow the researchers to test ideas regarding the reactions of paramecia to the pollutants tested. The factors were type of pollutant, either mercury nitrate or lead nitrate; concentration of pollutant, either the drinking water limit or half the drinking water limit; and temperature, either seventy-four degrees or sixty-four degrees.
The best result, fifty percent dead, occurred using a drinking water limit solution of mercury nitrate at seventy-four degrees. This was consistent with the hypothesis. The results of the experiment indicated that Paramecium Caudatum have a great potential as bioindicators, but further research is needed.
Research Done By:
Jeff Ziarko
Warren Mott High School
Jason Grifka
Warren Mott High School
Warren Consolidated Schools