Using Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) Data to Assess Penguin Population Dynamics Along the West Antarctic Peninsula

This activity incorporates the use of real scientific data to explore ecosystem dynamics among three Antarctic penguin species. A lab sheet is provided to guide students as they analyze two Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) data sets and supporting graphics for cause and effect and feedback relationships driving changes observed in Adelie, Chinstrap, and Gentoo penguins along the West Antarctic Peninsula. The penguin population datasets were collected from the Palmer Station Study region, which is part of the Long-Term Ecological Research program. The LTER program began in 1974 and has been collecting annual data in this region (as well as numerous other regions in Antarctica) on a variety of ecological interactions. This session will demonstrate the use of the Student Lab Sheet, Student data sets, Teachers data sets (including answer keys), and Tutorials for accessing and utilizing the LTER database.