The Effects of Exposure Time and Concentration of Zequanox on the Mortality of Dreissena Polymorpha
In this experiment, the exposure time and concentration of Zequanox was tested in order to determine if they have an effect on the mortality of Dreissena polymorpha, or zebra mussels. Zequanox is a product derived from a naturally occurring strain of the bacteria Pseudomonas fluorescens, making it an environmentally compatible molluscicide (a pesticide against mollusks). Collected zebra mussels were treated with different exposure times of 3 hours, 8 hours, and 24 hours and different concentrations of 50 mg, 100 mg, and 150 mg. This was done by separating groups of thirty zebra mussels into fifteen separate containers and treating them accordingly. After designated treatments, the percentage of dead specimens was measured for each group over a one-week period. Once the data was collected and measured, a two-factor design of experiment was conducted to measure the effects and the interaction between the factors. It was hypothesized that the highest concentration and exposure time of Zequanox would yield the highest mortality of zebra mussels. After completing the DOE, the hypothesis was accepted. As both concentration and exposure time were held high, the percentage of the specimens dead increased. This experiment is valuable to the scientific community because zebra mussels are an invasive species that pose a threat to native aquatic life. Also, they cause numerous issues for many people and businesses.
Research Conducted By:
Emma Carr
Sterling Heights High School
Abigail Gonzales
Lakeview High School
Warren Consolidated Schools