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Biennial Report 1999-2000
sections
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ECOLOGICAL RESEARCH:
The focus
Ecological research is the
central activity of Archbold Biological Station and the MacArthur
Agro-ecology Research Center. Varied and distinctive habitats at the Station and Ranch, plus the
availability of outstanding laboratory, library, geographic
information system, and computer facilities,
combine to make Archbold an ideal location for experimental and long-term ecological
study. Extensive databases on climatic conditions, biodiversity,
biological collections, plant and animal populations, water tables, and water chemistry are available to augment
any research project. As of 2003, 1,438 scientific articles and books
have been published utilizing research performed at the Station
and Ranch.
Staff
scientists study the ecology and demography of animals and plants of southern
Florida, employing both short-term and long-term approaches. Research in field and
laboratory settings emphasizes population biology, life history theory, biogeography,
community ecology, evolution, nutrient cycling and soil ecology, and agro-ecology.
Thousands of vertebrates of many species have been individually marked for long-term
monitoring of populations, movement patterns, growth, and longevity. Continuous sampling
of insects and other arthropods provides data on ecology and annual variation among the
Station's invertebrate populations. Permanent quadrats have been used to monitor
vegetation change since 1969.
Visiting scientists
use A rchbold extensively for research spanning the entire spectrum of modern ecology. Most
visitors emphasize field projects, and many return annually to conduct long-term studies.
Some visitors use the Station or the Ranch as a base of operations for research conducted
elsewhere in southern Florida. Professors on sabbatical use the Station to write or study
for periods ranging from several months to a full year. Many short-term visitors consult
with staff, use the library and reference collections, or attend seminars.
Research at both Station and Ranch increasingly
addresses applied aspects of ecology and conservation biology. Baseline
data on the functioning of natural ecosystems in the region are used to test the effects
of human activities on the local and global environment. Data on the effects of habitat
management practices provide needed guidance to landscape managers in a variety of public
and private natural preserves across Florida. Detailed study of rare and endangered species represented on the Station
helps improve the protection of rare species by public and private agencies globally. With
demographic data obtained at the Station, many viability analyses have been constructed
for declining populations of animals and plants.
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Lake
Placid, Florida 33862 USA