Flora and fauna was identified and counted. Tree pairs were identified and the length and diameter at breast height was measured, Water and soil was analyzed for pH and chemical content. A secondary creek was found to run off the primary creek, Morels were found along the side of the creek. The pH and chemical content of the water was found to be neutral and within normal limits. In the study of ecosystems, the focus is often on the effect humans have on biodiversity.
Plant life can provide natural sources of chemicals found in many medications.
For example, the foxglove plant is responsible for the invention of digitalis medications used to treat congestive heart failure. Equally fascinating is the array of natural chemicals found in animals. For example, neurologically active alkaloids from the poison dart frog have the potential for human therapy. Protecting biodiversity in ecosystems, therefore, is crucial to protecting human life. Protecting biodiversity begins with studying the biotic and abiotic factors that make up the ecosystem.