This is true in fresh and well as salt wate, zinc seems to spread more rapidly in sea water, even affecting higher animals (Taban, Cathiene and Burkard, 1982).
Research Project - The term scientific method refers to a way of investigation or the acquisition of knowledge through the testing of a theory or hypothesis, then working through measurements (observation and empirical notes) to come up with a result, which should prove or disprove the original theory. Thus, the basic method consists of a) formulating a question or hypothesis, b) designing an experiment or means of collecting data, c) observation or experimentation, d) analyzing the results and considering the proof or disproof of the hypotheses, and e) suggestions for future research (Cary, 2003).
In this case, and because invertebrates are relatively easy to access regarding zinc the following is a simple introductory examination on the topic:
Freshwater crayfish, particularly the species of marbled Procambarus Marmorkrebs, are easily accessible through the aquarium hobby industry. They are also the only known crayfish to clone itself and their patterns of behavior and reproduction have been well documented.
Our hypothesis is that since zinc is a part of most batteries, we will...
will have some older, zinc batteries sunk into the tank, and a weekly measurement of free ion zinc taken, along with both qualitative and quantitative observations of the crayfish themselves. If we ensure that we receive samples of the approximate same age, control feeding and
environmental issues we will have weight, reproductive rate, length, general body and activity appearance, and overall coloration and health as our data.
Depending on the length of time we have for the experiment, after the 2nd week we should see some differences in the population; ideally, the experiment should last the life of the cray, but for practical purposes, we can get a good estimate after a minimum of 90 days (See www.marbledcrayfish.com).
REFERENCES
Canicatti and Grasso. (1988). Biodepressive Effect of Zine on Humoral Effector of the Holothuria Polii Immune Response. Marine Biology, 99(3), 393-96.
Cary, S. (2003). A Beginner's Guide to the Scientific Method. New York: Wadsworth.
Emsley, J. (2001). Nature's Building Blocks. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Fosmire, G. (1990). Zinc Toxicity. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 51(2), 225-37.
Laws, E. (2000). Aquatic Pollution. New York: Wiley.
Nriagu, J. (1980). Zinc in the Environment: Ecological Cycling. New York: Wiley.
Speth, ed. (2003). Worlds Apart: Globalization and the Environment. Washington, DC: Island Press.
Taban, Cathiene and Burkard. (1982). Changes in Newt Brain Caused by Zinc Water Pollution. Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences, 38(6), 683-85.
Willis, M. (1985). Analysis of the Effects of Zinc Pollution on the Macro-Invertebrate Populations of the Afon Crafnant, North Wales.…
