The Dynamics of Dissolved Organic Matter in Streams in Valles Caldera National Preserve
Project Location: New Mexico Tech
Project Leader: Dr. Michael Pullin
Project Description: Dissolved organic matter or DOM is a mixture of naturally occurring compounds that are the breakdown products of vegetation and algae. In streams, this material forms the base of the food chain, acting as the primary carbon and energy source for heterotrophic microorganisms in the stream and the sediments beneath the stream. The concentration and chemical composition of this mixture is observed to change according to season and stream flow. Understanding how and why these variations occur will allow us to better understand how stream ecosystems will respond to changes in annual temperature and precipitation caused by climate change.
This project will measure the variation in DOM concentration and chemical composition in several streams at Valles Caldera National Preserve. Students will participate in water sampling and analysis, including DOM characterization using spectroscopic and chromatographic methods. The project will include a mix of field and laboratory work.
Desired Students: Students majoring in general science and engineering, especially chemistry, geochemistry, and biology. Students must be willing to work outside occassionally.