Many non-native species live in the Great Lakes, and some of them are considered invasive. These species have established populations, multiplied rapidly and caused profound and lasting impacts on the Great Lakes ecosystem. Others (such as Asian carp) have caused serious ecological problems in other parts of the country and threaten to enter the Great Lakes. This lesson explores how invasive species have impacted the Great Lakes and how people can help prevent the spread of these unwanted species.
Objectives:
- Name and visually recognize the primary aquatic invasive species of the Great Lakes.
- Understand and analyze the negative impacts that invasive species have on the Great Lakes ecosystem.
- Explain the ways in which non-native species are introduced into the Great Lakes.