Lab exercise

QUESTION

Microclimate is any climactic condition in a relatively small area, within a few meters or less above and below the Earth’s surface and within canopies of vegetation. Complexities of microclimate are necessary for the existence of a variety of life forms because, although any single species may tolerate only a limited range of conditions, strongly contrasting microclimates in close proximity provide an environment in which many species of flora and fauna can coexist and interact.

Microclimate conditions depend on such factors as temperature, humidity, wind and turbulence, dew, frost, heat balance, and evaporation. The effect of soil type on microclimates is considerable. For example, sandy soils and other coarse, loose dry soils are subject to high maximum and low minimum surface temperatures. The surface reflection characteristics are also important: soils of lighter color reflect more and respond less to daily heating. Also strongly influencing the microclimate is the ability of the soil to absorb and retain moisture, which depends on the composition of the soil and its use. Vegetation can insulate the soil below and reduce temperature variability. Sites of exposed soil exhibit the greatest temperature variability. Topography can affect the vertical path of air in a locale, impacting relative humidity and air circulation. Microclimates control evaporation from surfaces and influence precipitation, so they are important in the hydrological cycle.

Lab exercise:

In this lab we will look at two sites at the Pike County Pocosin that are within a few hundred meters of each other to demonstrate the effects of microclimate. We will measure a number of variables including temperature, wind speed, light intensity and soil characteristics (see data sheet) at these two sites and document the types of vegetation present.

Website and library search:

In addition to information you get from Chapter 2 in the textbook on microclimate, you need to conduct a search for additional material on microclimate on the internet and in the scientific journals to answer questions on the worksheet. Remember to cite the website as you refer to it and include details of the website, e.g. title, author(s) if known, and URL in the references. Also remember to cite any references (books, journal articles) that you use.

ANSWER

Exploring Microclimate: Effects and Significance in the Pike County Pocosin

Introduction

Microclimate, referring to climatic conditions within a limited area, plays a vital role in supporting diverse life forms. The complex variations in temperature, humidity, wind, dew, frost, and other factors within microclimates enable the coexistence and interaction of numerous species. This lab aims to investigate the effects of microclimate in two sites within the Pike County Pocosin, examining variables such as temperature, wind speed, light intensity, soil characteristics, and vegetation composition. To supplement the information provided in Chapter 2 of the textbook, further research was conducted through online resources and scientific journals.

Microclimate Factors

Temperature, humidity, wind speed, and turbulence are key factors influencing microclimates. These variables directly affect the thermal comfort and physiological processes of organisms within a specific area. Additionally, dew, frost, heat balance, and evaporation contribute to the intricate dynamics of microclimate. Soil type significantly impacts microclimate conditions, with sandy soils and loose dry soils exhibiting higher temperature extremes. The color and reflective properties of soil surfaces also influence temperature patterns, as lighter-colored soils reflect more solar radiation (Javanroodi & Nik, 2019). Soil composition and moisture absorption capacity are critical factors, with vegetation acting as insulation and reducing temperature fluctuations. Moreover, topography influences air circulation, relative humidity, and precipitation, thereby shaping microclimate characteristics and their role in the hydrological cycle.

Effects of Microclimate

Microclimates play a crucial role in the survival and distribution of flora and fauna. The presence of contrasting microclimates in close proximity provides a range of environmental conditions that can support various species with different tolerance ranges (Bennie et al., 2014). This diversity promotes interactions, ecological niches, and overall ecosystem resilience. The heterogeneity of microclimates fosters species adaptation, niche partitioning, and the maintenance of biodiversity.

Lab Study at Pike County Pocosin

The lab study aims to investigate microclimate effects at two sites in close proximity within the Pike County Pocosin. Multiple variables will be measured, including temperature, wind speed, light intensity, and soil characteristics. By comparing these parameters between the two sites, researchers can examine the distinct microclimatic conditions and their implications for vegetation composition (Dimoudi & Nikolopoulou, 2003). The collected data will provide valuable insights into the microclimate patterns and the factors shaping them within the Pocosin ecosystem.

Conclusion

Microclimates are critical for sustaining a diverse range of life forms due to their ability to support contrasting environmental conditions in close proximity. Understanding the complexities of microclimate, including temperature, humidity, wind, soil characteristics, and vegetation dynamics, is essential for comprehending the ecological interactions and biodiversity patterns within an ecosystem. The lab study at the Pike County Pocosin will contribute to this knowledge by investigating the microclimate effects on temperature, wind, light intensity, and soil properties. Through these efforts, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the microclimatic intricacies and their significance in supporting the coexistence and interactions of various species within the Pocosin ecosystem.

References

Bennie, J., Wilson, R., Maclean, I. M. D., & Suggitt, A. J. (2014). Seeing the woods for the trees – when is microclimate important in species distribution models? Global Change Biology, 20(9), 2699–2700. https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.12525 

Dimoudi, A., & Nikolopoulou, M. (2003). Vegetation in the urban environment: microclimatic analysis and benefits. Energy and Buildings, 35(1), 69–76. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0378-7788(02)00081-6 

Javanroodi, K., & Nik, V. M. (2019). Impacts of Microclimate Conditions on the Energy Performance of Buildings in Urban Areas. Buildings, 9(8), 189. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings9080189