Lyme Disease Ecological Cascade
Investigate how environmental factors and population dynamics in New England forests drive the spread of Lyme disease. Observe the multi-year ripple effect starting from an "Oak Mast" (a year of overabundant acorn production) all the way to human infection risk.
Environmental Factors
Harsh winters decrease mouse and tick survival.
Foxes control the white-footed mouse population.
Deer are crucial for adult tick mating and reproduction.
Simulate a massive drop of acorns.
Evidence Log
Formulate a hypothesis before triggering an Oak Mast, then record your observations.
Population Dynamics Over Time
The Ecological Cascade
Oaks drop massive amounts of acorns (food).
Mice thrive on acorns and population spikes.
Larvae feed on infected mice, becoming infected nymphs.
Infected nymphs seek new hosts, including humans.