It's been a few weeks since my ecosystem was started. I conduct weekly population counts and water quality testing. The water quality is on the acidic side at 6.0ph. There are also no nitrates or nitrites in the water. Typically one wants to keep nitrates and nitrites to an optimal level. With all this information it is no surprise that all shrimp have died. I believe they did not survive due to the water quality. I have purchased aquarium ph up kit to add alkalinity to the water. I am going to introduce pond scum and leave the shrimp bodies to foster a healthy level of bacteria. With bacteria introduced, the water quality should improve and see small levels of nitrates and nitrites. I want to keep this system to plants, water and bacteria to proliferate a healthy system. Once I see the nitrate and nitrite levels increase, then I can reintroduce shrimp. I have also relocated the tank since the research shows that too much sunlight could harm the water quality of the tank. However since there is no artificial light I question this decision. I would like to design an experiment that tests the amount of sunlight. On an afternoon I want to take a solar powered decoration and see if there is enough sunlight to move the decoration. I also want to see how long the period of sunlight is. With this information I can gauge how much sunlight the original location receives and determine which location will facilitate a healthy ecosystem.
Since starting this project, I have inspired another project. Within my home not only is there a self contained freshwater system but there is now a 8 gallon saltwater tank being set up. Saltwater systems are different but there are a lot of similarities. The goal with the saltwater tank is to house a mini reef system. Because of the demands of this system I do not envision it to be a contribution to the classroom. But all information learned can be applied inside and outside the classroom.
Here is a link to my research for the project
Since starting this project, I have inspired another project. Within my home not only is there a self contained freshwater system but there is now a 8 gallon saltwater tank being set up. Saltwater systems are different but there are a lot of similarities. The goal with the saltwater tank is to house a mini reef system. Because of the demands of this system I do not envision it to be a contribution to the classroom. But all information learned can be applied inside and outside the classroom.
Here is a link to my research for the project