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2017. PURCHASE COLLEGE SOIL: A TREASURE CHEST FOR INVERTEBRATES

December 07, 2017

By: Matthew Leichman and Danielle Barone

TWEET: DID YOU KNOW THAT COOL AND MOIST SOIL CONDITIONS ARE MOST FAVORED BY EARTHWORMS AND ROLLIE-POLLIES ON THE PURCHASE COLLEGE CAMPUS? FIND OUT MORE! 

What determines preferable soil for invertebrates at the Purchase college campus? Samples collected by Environmental Studies students help us understand these small creatures and their desirable habitat locations. Cool and moist soil conditions are the most popular areas for several species such as earthworms and rollie-pollies. These small species are just as particular as us humans when it comes to finding the perfect place to live. Field work on a small scale helps us better understand what is still to be discovered from past and present research opportunities. Think about all of the places in the world this study can be useful in discovering biodiversity of invertebrates! It is truly a treasure hunt. The unknown can be both scary, and interesting. The possibilities are endless, so go out and explore the soil near you and see what can be found!