WILD lab — WISRD

Self-Sustaining Terrestrial and Aquatic Environmental Studies (Oli, Joe, and Ronan)

This branch studies various flora and fauna, observing the environmental factors that affect the relationships between animals and plants. The group predicts that there will be a need for self-sufficient ecosystems that can be portable, provide food sources, and be a self-sustaining life form that does not require artificial intervention. Because of this, the group aims to identify the most functional ecosystem in various aquatic and terrestrial environments.

Plant and Fungi Nitrogen-Fixing Relationship Studies (Brian, Charlie)

This branch focuses on observing the differing presence of fungi in plant growth. This branch also studies nitrogen in plants. Plants need nitrogen for growth, so they must fix nitrogen to take it from the atmosphere and use it. This nitrogen intake is the optimal form for plant growth and is studied in this project. Additionally, Charlie is conducting studies on the plastic-eating capabilities of fungi through the use of enzymes.

Slime Mold Mapping (Branch Extension) (Oli and Joe) (Suspended: Will be integrated into one of the two other branches)

In Tokyo, a large-scale urban planning experiment was conducted to determine the most efficient routes between major urban centers in various areas for the Tokyo Metro system. The experiment used slime mold because it needs to spread itself to survive and find food, so it takes the most optimal route so it can save its energy and health. Food for the slime mold was placed at each urban center so researchers could observe the most optimal routes for the metro system to follow. This branch is recreating that in Los Angeles and are planning out a lab report and lab writeup to record the findings.

Self-Sustaining Terrestrial and Aquatic Environmental Studies:

Is it possible for humans to create a self-sustaining environment? If not, how close can humans get?

Plant and Fungi Nitrogen-Fixing Relationship Studies:

What is the symbiotic nature of plants and fungi with a high diversity of plant seeds?

Using Slime Mold to Map Transit Routes of Los Angeles (Plant and Fungi Relationship Branch Project Extension):

Three mini tanks have been created to test the effects of pothos on water quality.
The terrarium was sealed to create a fully self-sustaining environment.
Tetras have been breeding in the freshwater biocube.
A protein skimmer was added to the saltwater tank, which seems to be improving water quality.
A rotien skimmer was purchased for the freshwater tank.
The fully self-sustaining tan is thriving. The lights were turned off because they were burning pothos.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Oli Smith ‘27 (olivers27@wildwood.org) or Joe Hunt ‘27 (joeh27@wildwood.org)

W.I.L.D. Lab