Assignment #2 The Properties of Life in Site Alpha

Site Alpha Location: Gardner Massachusetts near the train tracks.

Date: 04/02/17

Time: 5:30 pm

Weather Conditions: Cold, cloudy and rainy.

Observation Transect

The path I took was again mainly flat with minor dips. On the ground under me, hard icy slush lay under my boots. To my left, the forest of deciduous trees and conifers lined the path. The train tracks and partial rock wall lay to my left. There was significantly less snow on the path, and what was left was harder and more like solid ice. More patches of grass were exposed during this object transect. To my right the medium sized bushes still lined the way. They gleamed as ice crystals were attached to their exposed buds. 

Properties of Life

1. Homeostasis 

The deciduous trees in Site Alpha maintain homeostasis by losing their leaves for the winter. In doing this, they are able to conserve moisture and energy in their trunks and branches and can survive the harsh winds.

2. Growth

The rain water from the sky as well as the melted water from the snow aid in plant growth. It nourishes the grass beneath.

3. Response to Stimuli

The patches of grass peeking through the snow suggests a response to stimuli. The stimuli being the warmth of the sun and the warmth of the liquid rain water as it reaches contact with the frozen ice and snow. As a response to this stimuli, the snow begins to melt, revealing patches of grass beneath.