Invasive Species in KY

UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT ON OUR ENVIRONMENT

Invasive species are plants, animals, or
organisms not originally from a specific
area.
They often spread quickly and can harm
the environment and economy.

What are Invasive

Species?

Categorize

Options (6)

Horse

Robin

Maple Tree

Tiger

cactus

Toucan

Think about what you know about Kentucky and what you have learned about ecosystems and habitats. Sort the following organisms into native species and invasive species.

Native in Kentucky

Invasive to Kentucky

Apex Predators: Top predators with no natural enemies.

They help control prey populations

Prey: Animals that are hunted by predators.

Native: Species that naturally belong to an area

Invasive: Organisms that cause harm in a new

environment.

Key

Words

Word Cloud

Give an example of an Apex Predator

Displacement of Native Species

1.

Invasive species outcompete natives.

Alteration of Habitats

2.

Changes the environment (e.g., blocking
sunlight).

Economic Impact

3.

Affects agriculture and fishing industries.

Human Health Risks

4.

Some carry diseases (e.g., mosquitoes).

Loss of Biodiversity

5.

Reduces the variety of life in ecosystems

Problems Caused by Invasive Species

Common Reed (Phragmites australis)

Tall grass crowding out native plants.

Asian Carp (Hypophthalmichthys spp.)

Competes with native fish in rivers and
lakes.

Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis)

Beetle damaging ash trees.

Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica)

Vine smothering native plants.

Burmese Python (Python molurus bivittatus)

Apex predator affecting local prey
populations.

Invasive Species in KY

Open Ended

When Bob first got his pet python, the snake was 2 feet long. Eventually, it grew to be 6 feet long and Bob could no longer take care of the snake. So Bob decided to let it go in the woods behind his house. Give an example of a problem the snake could cause to the woods ecosystem.

Invasive species threaten our native

ecosystems.

They can disrupt habitats, harm

economies, and affect human health.

Awareness and action are essential to

protect our environment.

Conclusion