12 Jul Emily Tuohy, Tybee Island Marine Science Center, Week 2

This week has been incredibly rewarding. From squid dissections to turtle feedings, I have been showered with so much information that I can hardly keep track of it all. I have been rigorously taking notes, but it is impossible to soak it all up, and I am in awe of how much knowledge the educators at the science center possess. This week of camp was for an older group than before, so we did more hands-on activities. On Monday, the camp went down to the beach to gather data on water quality. Using different tools, we collected plankton samples, observed wind speed and water salinity, and sifted for organisms in the sand.

Wind Meter to measure wind speed

A water quality tester that measures water pH, salinity, and temperature.

Plankton tow – collects plankton and other small organisms when dragged through the water

3D-printed coral pieces, painted with color-changing paint, demonstrate coral bleaching caused by warming water temperatures.

On Tuesday, we dissected squids and observed their anatomy. I’m endlessly fascinated by how organisms so different from us have evolved specialized body parts, each perfectly shaped for its purpose. I loved getting to see how this applied to squids.

We also learned about ocean acidification and its effect on coral reefs. It is devastating to really dive into the harm we’ve brought upon such a beautiful ecosystem.

Over the next few days, I worked less with Sea Camp and focused more on broadening my horizons with some of the other responsibilities and programs that the science center offers. The best part was being able to carry the turtles and feed them.

With my work at the marine center taking up the majority of my time here, I haven’t been able to explore the island and its attractions as much as I would like. While I have a long list of things that I still have yet to do, I am slowly ticking things off. For one, I went to the small Tybee Post Theater on Saturday for a Fleetwood Mac tribute band. It is such a charming staple of the island, with an abundant history.

This has been such an incredible experience, and I look forward to sharing next week’s updates.