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Harvard Forest Research Project 2024
- Title: Vernal Pool Ecology
- Principal investigator: Betsy Colburn (colburn@fas.Harvard.edu)
- Institution: Harvard Forest
- Primary contact: Betsy Colburn (colburn@fas.Harvard.edu)
- Team members: Betsy Colburn
- Abstract:
Vernal pools are seasonal water bodies that support unique communities of amphibians, aquatic insects, and other fauna. They contribute markedly to local and regional biodiversity and in some cases support populations of rare species. The community composition of vernal pools varies across and within pools with seasonal site hydrology and other factors. Due to their small size and seasonal flooding vernal pools represent a challenge for conservation.
This research represents a multi-decadal study of pools across Massachusetts. Focus in 2024 is on verifying identifications of specimens, updating labels, and preparing collection for archival museum storage.
