AQuatic INvasive Species
Over 180 non-native species have been introduced into the Great Lakes region. Some of these species such as the zebra mussel, Eurasian watermilfoil and silver carp have flourished and negatively impacted both our environment and economy. More aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as these lurk on the horizon as threats to Lake Michigan and the inland waters of both Illinois and Indiana. Sea Grant educators offer classroom resources about invader origin, spread, impacts and control, and present opportunities for learning and intervention. IISG also provides teacher training on best ways to incorporate these activities to align with education standards.
News
- Master Gardeners: Learn about alternatives to invasive aquatic plants
- Invasive species workshop provides teachers Chicago River tour
- Community Stewardship Fair Highights Invasive Species Projects
- Nab the Aquatic Invader! Now featured at the Smithsonian!
Education Initiatives
Nab the Aquatic Invader!
An innovative web site to introduce students (grades 4-10) to marine and freshwater invasive species and their impacts using a detective theme and cartoon characters.
Invasive Species University Course
This service-learning course uses the Nab the Aquatic Invader web site to teach essential science concepts such as ecosystems, habitats, and food webs to undergraduates who then instruct local youth and engage them in community stewardship projects.
Safe Disposal of Classroom Specimens
Classroom specimens can end up as part of the invasive species problem. This project will provide ways for school to be part of the solution.
Products
ESCAPE Compendium of 36 activities
"Rival for Survival" and "Beat the Barriers" Board Games
Zebra Mussel Mania Traveling Trunk
Nab those Menacing Invaders! Poster Set
Greatest of the Great Lakes-A Medley of Model Lessons CD
The Great Lakes Invasion Curriculum Guide
Community Stewardship Projects on Exotic Aquatic Species
Zelda, the Zebra Mussel costume
More AIS Education Products || Additional products in AIS
Research
How do plant species invasions affect water quality services performed by Great Lakes coastal wetlands?
Nancy Tuchman, Loyola University Chicago.
Alterations of Lake Michigan benthic communities by the invasive colonial hydroid, Cordylophora caspia: effects on fish prey
Nadine C. Folino-Rorem, Wheaton College; Martin Berg, Loyola University
Web Links
Exotic Aquatics on the Move
Sea Grant Ocean Sciences Education Center: Exotic Species Lessons from The Bridge
