Summary
Most organisms can't survive outside their natural habitats. But invasive species <i>thrive</i>—and damage their new environment in the process! Their presence disrupts the balance between native species in an ecosystem. The invaders compete for resources like food, water, sunlight, and space. Some are predators that drive down populations of prey. Others attack the foundation of an ecosystem, like the trees in a forest, which provide food and habitat for countless other species. In every case, the effects ripple through the ecosystem. Eventually, entire species can go extinct. This loss of biodiversity is troubling, but conservation scientists are working hard to protect wildlife. Press "play" to learn how they’re working to stop invaders in their tracks—and how you can help!
Viewer safety
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching Invasive Species:
- What is one new thing you learned about invasive species?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining invasive species.
- Draw or give one example of your own.