Invasive Species- What's the worst that could happen? – Grades 9-12

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2. Eat and Be Eaten
Notes
Where to Go
Third Floor, Eat and Be Eaten, Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches
What to Do
• Observe the Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches and read the
information panel about the species.
Consider This
• Do you think that a Madagascar Hissing Cockroach might be a
successful invasive species in this region? What observations can
you make about the cockroaches to support your thoughts?
• How might a Madagascar Hissing Cockroach be introduced into a
new ecosystem?
• How would you describe the rate of reproduction of this
species? What impact might the rate of reproduction have on the
cockroach’s evolution?
• Do you notice any variation between the individuals in the
enclosure? Are any of these variable traits advantageous to their
survival? Explain your reasoning.
Sketch Pad
Other Things to Try
• Compare your observations of the cockroach display with other
species in the gallery. Do all the displays show organisms in
multiple stages of life? How do these observations support your
previous thoughts about the cockroach’s rate of reproduction?
Discovery Challenges Invasive Species: Grades 9-12 Discovery Challenges Invasive Species: Grades 9-12
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