What Conditions Does Chara Algae Grow Best?

Courtney Hartmann

Carmen Hudson

Abstract

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the conditions that Chara algae grows best. We had twelve beakers full of Chara algae, de-chlorinated tap water, goose feces and growth solution. Three beakers had Chara algae and de-chlorinated tap water. The next three had Chara algae, de-chlorinated tap water and vial of growth solution. The next three had Chara algae, de-chlorinated tap water, vial of growth solution and goose feces. According to our results we found that the Chara algae, de-chlorinated water, goose feces and vial of growth solution produced the most algae. Our conclusions were that this was the solution that would produce the most algae and we were correct.

Background Information

Chara algae are yellow in appearance and are often mistaken for higher vascular plants. It is commonly found in lakes and ponds where calcium is abundant as carbonate or bicarbonates. Deposits of calcium on the surface of the plants make them feel rough to the touch. They are readily recognized by their musky or garlicky odor. Problems with the species occur when dense growths impede water flow and interfere with recreational activities.

The water in the vicinity of Chara is often clear. Chara algae are also known as Charaphyta. It is commonly found at the bottom of ponds attached by rhizoids. A rhizoid is a nutrient absorbing filament. A rhizoid absorbs nourishment much the same way that a root would. Algae are a form of bacteria and that is why it is bad to have all over our lakes and ponds. Excessive growth may clog filters, cause depletion in the oxygen content of the water, provide mosquito breeding sites, or give the water an unsightly appearance. When algal blooms begin to decompose, the water may take on an objectionable taste or smell.

Hypothesis

The Chara algae will grow best in the water with algae, goose feces, and the algae growth solution.

Methods

In 3 beakers, we added de-chlorinated tap water and approximately 1 gram of Chara algae.  We weighed the Chara algae on a scale to get the exact amount we needed before adding it to the tap water.  In 3 more beakers, we added de-chlorinated tap water, approximately 1 gram of Chara algae and 1 vial of algae growth culture.  In 3 more beakers, we mixed de-chlorinated tap water, approximately 1 gram of Chara algae, goose feces solution and 1 vial of algae growth culture.  In 3 more beakers, we mixed de-chlorinated tap water, approximately 1 gram of Chara algae, and goose feces solution.  We then decided to wait for four weeks for the algae to grow.  We set the project up before we left for winter break and then checked the progress when we came back.

Results and Discussion

We were surprised to find out that our results were very similar to one another.  The algae only beakers were almost the same weight as the algae, culture and feces beakers.  Also, the algae and culture beakers were almost identical to the algae and the feces beaker.

This sample grew to produce the second largest amount.  The third largest amount was a little more difficult.  According to our dry algae results the water, Chara algae, and feces produced the third largest amount.

Weight of Dry Algae ( Minus tin and filter paper)

Summary

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the conditions that Chara algae grow best.  We had twelve beakers full of Chara algae, de-chlorinated tap water, goose feces and growth solution.  Three beakers had Chara algae and de-chlorinated tap water.  The next three had Chara algae, de-chlorinated tap water, and vial of growth solution.  The next three had Chara algae, de-chlorinated tap water, vial of growth solution, and goose feces.  According to our results, we found that the Chara algae, de-chlorinated tap water, goose feces and vial of growth solution produced the most algae.  Our conclusions were that this was the solution that would produce the most algae and we were correct.

References

http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/pmis/plants/html/algae_pl.html

Jim Lorman, Edgewood College Professor

Link to full science report