Seasonal changes in phytoplankton biodiversity on the outer banks 2005 to 2013

The First Flight High School PytoFinders analyze the data from phytoplankton samples collected between 2005 and 2013 to determine if significant seasonal variations in species composition exist. Sampling could not be carried out with sufficient regularity during the summers, so this study focuses mostly on samples collected during the fall, winter, and spring seasions. These observations contribute to a more complete understanding of community composition and biodiversity, and the variables that can influence changes through the seasons. The PhytoFinders have made various hypotheses as to why these variations exist.