In this activity, students research local aquatic plants, animals, or both, and determine whether they are native or introduced. They discuss whether it is appropriate to introduce new species to an area.
In this version, you will review information about species introduced in Iowa waters, and select one to learn more about.
Several fish species have been introduced into waters where they are not native. The following have been transplanted, but are not considered invasive.
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout
Redeared Sunfish
Walleye
Some species have been transplanted into Iowa waters, or have spread accidentally and have disrupted natural systems. Following are links to information about aquatic invasive species in Iowa.
Check out the links and select an invasive plant, fish, or invertebrate to research to determine its aquatic "roots." How was the species introduced into Iowa? Where did it originate? How has it impacted the local ecosystem? economy? recreation?
Briefly share what you found on the Aquatic Roots Jamboard.