This November, the Regeneron DNA Learning Center in Sleepy Hollow opened for student science research programs, and two Ardsley researchers were eager to get hands-on experience at the center. As a senior in Ardsley’s Science Research Program, Jonathan Tang has spent his past three years in research focusing on environmental sciences. Olivia Shpak is also a Third Year research student. This year, she chose to join Tang in diving into biodiversity DNA research, gaining wet lab experience, and conducting a local investigation. Shpak teamed up with Tang to explore the effects of invasive vines on biodiversity and soil quality along the Saw Mill River.
Tang and Shpak started by learning about several of the thriving invasive species in our local Ardsley community. One of the species, Oriental Bittersweet, is prevalent on the South County Trail. A local environment group, The Saw Mill River Coalition, actively monitors the South Country trail. The goal of Tang and Shpak’s project is to evaluate the impact of this vine removal on species biodiversity and soil chemistry.
Last year, Tang worked with the Saw Mill River Coalition to compare both the short term and long-term impact of the vine removal. In different areas where the vine has been removed, soil samples were analyzed for macronutrients, micronutrients, and pH levels. This year, Tang and Shpak are partnering with the Urban Barcode Program at the Regeneron DNA Learning Center. They are going to compare and analyze DNA barcodes of different plant samples taken from the areas where the vines have been removed. DNA barcoding involves the use of a single gene to identify a species through the comparison of nucleotide sequences. Tang and Shpak collected samples in the fall. Recently, they have gone to the Regeneron DNA Learning Center to perform DNA extractions, PCR experiments, and DNA sequencing on each sample. They are hoping the sequencing provides insight into the biodiversity changes that may be associated with invasive vine removal.
This exciting field of research has been a very new experience for Shpak. Previously, Shpak conducted a study that explored nutrition decisions and conversations between pregnant and recently pregnant mothers. After conducting the nutrition study, Olivia realized that she was excited to tap into different areas of research, and she was particularly passionate about learning about our local environment. She is thrilled to be working with Tang. In the past, he has worked with local organizations to help protect other areas of the trail where the project primarily takes place. Tang is very excited to be adding the new piece of methodology: biodiversity DNA.
Shpak and Tang see big implications for their research project. Even though many people understand that invasive species are harmful to the environment, there has been little research on the most effective control method. Their project can help with understanding the effects of invasive vines on surrounding plants. In addition, it could help us learn about controlling vines, which can offer suggestions to better protect our environment.