Aqua Architects

Design. Build. Balance. Create!

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There is a lot that goes into creating healthy aquatic ecosystems! In this hands-on exploration of "tankology," students will design and build their own aquascape for the class space, gathering specimens and balancing their tank chemistry. After creating their personalized ecosystems, students will gather scientific data that will allow them to maintain a healthy environment for plants and animals to recreate at home.

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Over the course of the semester, students will delve into physics, chemistry, and biology as they learn how to best collect their materials to create a proper closed system, what inhabitants to collect, and how to monitor and maintain optimal phosphate and nitrite levels in their tanks. Field trips to local aquariums and fish stores are incorporated into their learning environment throughout the semester. Students will walk away understanding the delicate balance required for ecosystems to thrive, both in the tank and in the wild.