2002 Texas Envirothon

Introduced Species and Their Effect on Biodiversity

• Students will provide examples of intentionally and unintentionally introduced species and distinguish these from examples of species that arrived in an area with no apparent human assistance.
• Students will explain the effects of specific species introductions on biodiversity and human quality of life.
• Students will describe reasons for introducing species and discuss the particulars of several introduced species and their effects on the flora, fauna, soils, and waterways of the students’ own communities.
• Students will define and use the concept of ecological niche.
• Students will list positive and/or negative effects of introduced species to an area. These can include economic costs, recreational benefits, and positive or negative effects on other species.
• Students will list several methods in which species have been transported or introduced to a local area.
• Students will cite examples of successful and unsuccessful management methods for particular invasive species.
• Students will explain how decisions are made to introduce and/or to prevent the spread of species and how citizens can affect these decisions.
• Students will identify groups of people affected by management decisions regarding species introduction such as nurserymen, foresters, ranchers, commercial fishermen, gardeners, fish hatchery managers, etc.
• Students will explain the differing views by various entities and organizations concerning management strategies, including differences in science and values.
• Where possible, students will identify practical management strategies for invasive species.
• Students will identify trade-offs in species management strategies.

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Learning Objectives