Marine Science Students Explore San Francisco Bay
Marin Catholic Marine Science Students, along with teacher Joe Ward, took a trip out on the San Francisco Bay aboard the 90-foot Robert G. Browlee Research Vessel on the bay and discovered the life in the estuary and how we are connected to it.
Lead by four marine scientists from the Marine Science Institute on board, students discovered the bay's ecosystem and discussed their own roles within it. They collected and examined plankton, ran hydrology tests, and observed San Francisco Bay ecology from the ship. They collected and examined mud samples, discovering the fascinating invertebrates that thrive at the Bay's bottom. Students also used a trawl net to catch a wide variety of fish species. They then identified the fish with a dichotomous key.
Students rotated through 4 stations using scientific methods and equipment to examine different types of life.
Students were able to enjoy the natural vitality of the bay while learning valuable scientific skills.
Students rotated through 4 stations using scientific methods and equipment to examine different types of life.
It was a wonderful two days. Students were able to experience what it's like to be a marine scientist. It was a true hands-on experience.
Plankton Station
Students used equipment to collect a sample of plankton, which they examined in the onboard plankton lab. Using a microscope and digital display, students observed and discussed the adaptations and ecological roles of a number of different species of plant (phytoplankton) and animal plankton (zooplankton).
Hydrology Station
Students used a Van Dorn bottle to collect water samples to study and compare. They conducted experiments to understand water quality, and discuss influences that change it. Students further explored how water chemistry changes might affect organisms in the Bay.
Ichthyology (Fish) Station
Working as a team, students deployed a 16 foot trawl net to bring fishes on board. In small groups, they studied the fishes using dichotomous keys or other identification aids. Students were able to observe and touch the live animals that they collected.
Benthic Station
Students learned about processes that have shaped the bay down to its muddy bottom, and about the organisms that call that mud their home. Using a Peterson Mud Grab, students c
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