Sigma Xi Poster Competition
Exploring the Environmental Factors Influencing Bald Cypress Knee Density: A Field and GIS Analysis
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Junior
Major
Wildlife & Conservation Biology
2nd Student Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Junior
2nd Student Major
Aquatic Biology
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Moon
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Description
Exploring the Environmental Factors Influencing Bald Cypress Knee Density: A Field and GIS Analysis
By:
Levi Johnson & Tom Li
This study investigates the environmental factors influencing the density of bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) knees in wetland ecosystems through field sampling and GIS analysis. Bald cypress trees are ecologically significant, as they play a vital role in wetland habitats by stabilizing soils, improving water quality, and providing essential habitat for wildlife. The unique structure of bald cypress knees, which emerge from the waterlogged soils around the tree, is crucial for maintaining the health and stability of these ecosystems.
Field sampling involved stratified random selection of sites, based on initial coordinates provided by Dr. Moon and Skylar Ross in a subsection of the Obion Creek Watershed Management Area. At each site (~20 m²), data were collected on bald cypress stem counts, knee counts, soil moisture, and other environmental variables. Knee counts were manually recorded and rounded to the nearest tens for simplicity, with soil moisture categorized into six levels ranging from dry to saturated. Data was collected and entered into mobile note applications using longitude and latitude coordinates and later transcribed to structured datasets for GIS integration.
This study anticipates that bald cypress knee density correlates with specific topographic and hydrological conditions, such as lower elevations, saturated soils, and hydric conditions, as these factors are commonly associated with wetland environments. Slope and topographic position are also expected to influence knee density, with more knees likely found in flatter, lower-lying areas. The analysis aims to identify spatial trends that contribute to the understanding of ecological conditions that promote the formation of bald cypress knees, which play a crucial role in the structural stability and ecological function of wetland ecosystems.
Spring Scholars Week 2025
Sigma Xi Poster Competition
Exploring the Environmental Factors Influencing Bald Cypress Knee Density: A Field and GIS Analysis
Exploring the Environmental Factors Influencing Bald Cypress Knee Density: A Field and GIS Analysis
By:
Levi Johnson & Tom Li
This study investigates the environmental factors influencing the density of bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) knees in wetland ecosystems through field sampling and GIS analysis. Bald cypress trees are ecologically significant, as they play a vital role in wetland habitats by stabilizing soils, improving water quality, and providing essential habitat for wildlife. The unique structure of bald cypress knees, which emerge from the waterlogged soils around the tree, is crucial for maintaining the health and stability of these ecosystems.
Field sampling involved stratified random selection of sites, based on initial coordinates provided by Dr. Moon and Skylar Ross in a subsection of the Obion Creek Watershed Management Area. At each site (~20 m²), data were collected on bald cypress stem counts, knee counts, soil moisture, and other environmental variables. Knee counts were manually recorded and rounded to the nearest tens for simplicity, with soil moisture categorized into six levels ranging from dry to saturated. Data was collected and entered into mobile note applications using longitude and latitude coordinates and later transcribed to structured datasets for GIS integration.
This study anticipates that bald cypress knee density correlates with specific topographic and hydrological conditions, such as lower elevations, saturated soils, and hydric conditions, as these factors are commonly associated with wetland environments. Slope and topographic position are also expected to influence knee density, with more knees likely found in flatter, lower-lying areas. The analysis aims to identify spatial trends that contribute to the understanding of ecological conditions that promote the formation of bald cypress knees, which play a crucial role in the structural stability and ecological function of wetland ecosystems.