Description:

This unit is an issue investigation of the zebra mussel that has, in the last decade, invaded the waters of the United States and Canada.  Due to the Zebra Mussels' life cycle, many other species are seriously declining.  Plant and animal species introductions have, historically, caused immense damage to native eco-systems.  Because the zebra mussel is not the first and will not be the last, there is an urgent need to educate people about the threat of invading species.  This interdisciplinary unit is organized into four-goal levels:

·         Foundations- introduces students to exotic species

•       Introduces exotic species and their impacts. topics include well-known examples of biological invaders and supplemental reading from popular science periodicals.

·         Issue awareness- considers the zebra mussel in detail  

•       Offers detailed Consideration of the Zebra Mussel, Including life cycle , feeding habits, economic and ecological effects , and control penetrative measures.

·         Student activities- provide exploratory learning opportunities  

•       Classroom Activities , including plotting the spread of zebra mussels , a decision making simulation game , and identification of probable ecological inter-relationships associated with the mussel.

·         Issue investigation- a biological survey and community awareness program  

•       Introduces data collection activities including surveying, interviewing and conducting an action plan to educate the local community about Zebra Mussels and other exotic species

Zebra mussel monitoring device and the Zebra Mussel Mania Traveling Trunk kit are also available from the Rivers Project.

Table of Contents

Back to Ordering Materials