More than 90% of vascular plants in terrestrial ecosystems form symbiotic root-fungal associations known as mycorrhiza; in Mediterranean biomes all known mycorrhizal types co-exist. However, the understanding of mycorrhizal diversity and structure and their ecophysiological impact in soil productivity and conservation has been shown to be very…

Suggests an approach and methodology for analyzing field and laboratory populations. Describes an experiment using mustard to show how competition and inequality can be assessed. Discusses the variables responsible for determining the abundance of organisms. (CW)

Background information, procedures used, and typical results obtained are provided for experiments in which caterpillars are used to investigate energy-flow relationships. Areas in which the experiments could be used include ecology, applied biology, and animal feeding. (DH)

A hair dryer, plastic funnel, and microscope slide can be used for predicting pollen counts on a day-to-day basis. Materials, methods for assembly, collection technique, meteorological influences, and daily patterns are discussed. Data collected using the apparatus suggest that airborne grass products other than pollen also affect hay fever…

Developmental stages of the beech weevil ("Rhynchaenus fagi") are suggested for experiments on population dynamics. Explains the weevil's life history, illustrating convenience of immature stages for study of development and mortality. Limitations of the study as well as possibilities for changing its emphasis are also discussed. (Author/DH)

Techniques for examining terrestrial and aquatic microorganisms using flattened glass capillaries are described. Capillaries can be left in natural or artificial environments for appropriate periods of time and removed for direct microscopic examination. Examples of organisms observed using the technique are given and suggestions made for wider…

Presented are several ideas for projects involving ladybird beetles. Discussed is background information about the insects; and projects involving life histories, intra-specific variation, taxonomy, genetics, behavior, ecology, habitat surveys, population biology, and overwintering biology. Lists 12 references. (CW)

Two designs of undergraduate terrestrial ecology and behavior field courses are described and compared. These include using a variety of projects and using a single individual research project. The relative educational benefits of each are considered and the advantages of each type of course are discussed. (Author/CW)

Lichenometry is described for use in the study of biology and physical weathering. Discussed are lichens in general and an outline for studying growth and ecology. A problem solving format is used. (CW)

A novel method to investigate the pollen diets of hoverflies is described. The method dispenses with the need for dissection skills or the use of hazardous chemicals thus making it particularly useful for school, college or undergraduate projects and for amateurs. It utilises the properties of the indigestible pollen coat, or exine, which enables…