invasive species in the Mississippi
Published on Nov 18, 2015
Trinity Souriya
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PRESENTATION OUTLINE
An invasive species is defined as an organism (plant, animal, fungus, or bacterium) that is not native and has negative effects on our economy, our environment, or our health. Not all introduced species are invasive.
Photo by Benimoto
Invasive species have significantly changed the Great Lakes and Mississippi eco systems, the changes have broad economic/social effects on people that rely on the waters for:
1. Food
2. Water
3.recreation
Photo by kate.gardiner
At least 25 non native species have entered the Great Lakes and the Mississippis since the 1800s. these fish have had significant changes in the waters food chain by competing with native fish for food and habitat.
Photo by BioDivLibrary
Invasive plants and animals are the second greatest threat to biodiversity after habitat loss. In other North American jurisdictions many invasive plants are responsible for
1.habitat damage
2.loss of subsistence resources,
3.economic loss.
Photo by rosetintedweb
there are over 180 invasive animal species in the Mississippi and Great Lakes. Zebra mussels clog up water treatment facilities, water intake pipes for power plants and boat engines. Invasive species are an annual $200 million dollar drain on the regional economy. Ever wondered why Lake Michigan is so clear? Well that's because the mussels suck up so much plankton that the nutri rich waters are turning clear.
Photo by kate.gardiner
Asian carp, these big aggressive invaders eat out the native competition and can even harm human beings with their acrobatic leaps. Boaters and jet skiers along the the Illinois and Mississippi River have reported cuts, bruises, and broken bones after being hit by a flying carp, which can weigh 100 pounds. They are in the Mississippi and so close to entering the Great Lakes Biggest ecosystem, Lake Michigan They could destroy the regions $7 billion fishing industry and further strain the water supply for 40 million people.
Photo by Jesus Arpon
WE CAN HELP PREVENT INVASIVE SPECIES FROM SPREADING!!
1. Verify the plants we buy for our yard or garden are not invasive
2.when boating, clean boat thoroughly before transporting it to a different body of water
3. Identify invasive species and plants so you know what you're looking for to prevent
4.dont pack a pest when traveling. Fruits and insects can carry pest or become invasive themselves clean your bags and boots after each hike, throw out food before you travel place to place.
5. Don't release aquarium fish and plants, live bait or other exotic animals into the wild If you plan to own an exotic pet do your research and plan to commit to looking after it
6.volunteer at your local park, refuge or other wildlife area to help remove invasive species.
Photo by symphony of love
WHAT IM DOING TO HELP IS EDUCATING OTHERS.
THANKS FOR WATCHING :)
trinity Souriya p.2
Photo by NASA Goddard Photo and Video
