Objective:
To research an invasive species so that students will understand their characteristics and will become familiar with examples of problems they have caused.
Time:
This lab will take between 1 hour and 1½ hours.
Materials:
· Computer with Internet access for research or a library
· Construction paper
· Markers
Procedure:
1. Assign students an invasive species to study. Examples are kudzu, zebra mussel, silver carp, Asian carp, cane toad, etc.
2. Make a “Wanted” poster for your invasive species (like the wanted posters of criminals you might see in a post office).
3. Include the following information on your poster:
 Why the species is “wanted”

Where it has been seen (include a map)

What other species it has harmed

How it made it to the scene of the crime

A picture of the criminal

What is being done to try to apprehend the criminal

How the criminal gets around from crime to crime

Species name in Latin

How organism limits/changes biodiversity

Genetic disposition that allows success in non-native location

Management for control/eradication

Human influence in situation.
Analysis:
1. Why are scientists concerned about the introduction of invasive species? What are the impacts of invasive species?
2. Why do invasive species often become pests? What times of habitats are most impacted?

3. List three things you can do to prevent the introduction of invasive species.
4. What are the genetic characteristics that lead to success of many invasive species?
Why were these characteristics evolved in the first place?