All Things Biology

Describe your ideal week.

This blog will provide a visual perspective on what it’s like as a biology student using examples of lab and field work I have conducted during my university degree so far.

Each day will show a different example of field/ lab work I have conducted, shown by a photo/ video and a brief explanation.

Together they create my ideal week and show the opportunities studying biology provides, opening our minds up to the wonders of life.

Monday: Coral and algal cover changes across sites in the Bahamas for several reasons such as fish populations, overall coral health and water depth. I saw this when monitoring coral and algal species using quadrats and imaging technologies in the Bahamas.

Tuesday: Did you know many fish species use nursery habitats such as mangroves and sea grass for juvenile fish as they provide protection and food. I saw this when monitoring certain fish species across habitats in the Bahamas.

Wednesday: Factors such as wave force and predator populations might affect dog whelk distribution on rocky shores. I saw this when monitoring dog whelk abundance on the rocky shores of the south west of England.

Thursday: Next time you see an abandoned building in the countryside reconsider its ecological relevance, it may be be home to hundreds of bats. I saw this when monitoring bat populations in the South on England

Friday: Did you know water fleas (scientifically known as daphnia) are planktonic crustaceans which can be seen in water samples collected from rivers or oceans? I saw them when taking a closer look at lab samples collected just off the coast of the south of England.

Saturday: Have you ever looked at life at a cellular basis? I have been fortunate enough to capture many beautiful pictures when observing cells under the microscope. This is just one example.

Sunday: Did you know owls regurgitate pellets which consist of the skeletons of their prey. When identifying prey species based of skeletons found in owl pellets I was able to bond with an owl in the lab.

Which day is your favourite?

Written by Francesca Giannachi-Kaye