Invasive species: Do they matter?

Visit some of the following web sites to choose three invasive species. 

National Aquatic Nuisance Species Clearinghouse

Invasive Species Node of the National Biological Information Infrastructure

For each invasive species, print the data sheet (attachment #1) and complete it.

When you have researched your three species, answer the following questions to the best of your ability:

1. 1.  What ecological characteristics do invasive species often have?
2. 2.  Discuss the pros and cons of biological control mechanisms--importing predators and diseases of the invasive pest.
3. 3.  Why should people care about invasive species--after all, they are biodiversity, too?  Alternatively, why do you think invasive species are an overstated or exaggerated problem?  For a presentation of this latter view, see, The Truth About Invasive Species,