Skip to main content
 

You Poured It Where?

A Case Study in Invasive Species

By Nancy M. Boury

You Poured It Where?


 

Abstract

This "clicker case" focuses on the invasive aquarium strain of Caulerpa taxifolia as a way of introducing students to issues about invasive species. Specifically, students learn to identify some of the traits that make a species potentially invasive and explore how individual decisions can have big impacts on the ecosystem. The case uses a story/handout that sets the stage combined with a New York Times article for further background. Students are then guided through a series of PowerPoint slides (5 MB) in class that provide additional information, prompts for small group discussion, and multiple-choice "clicker questions." The case is suitable for introductory biology and ecology courses.

   

Date Posted

03/22/2010

Overview

Objectives

  • Identify traits that enable a species to become invasive.
  • Explain how the activities of humans have contributed to the spread of invasive species.
  • Describe how a rapid, multifaceted approach is required to limit the spread of invasive species.

Keywords

Invasive species; exotic species; introduced species; algae; caulerpa; Caulerpa taxifolia

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Botany / Plant Science
Ecology
Environmental Science

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF, PowerPoint

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Clicker, Interrupted

 

 

Asset 2