Invasive species pose a serious risk to many ecosystems throughout the world. The Hudson River is no exception. Why should we be concerned about invasive species? How do they change the dynamics of plant and animal assemblages? How do they change the chemistry of a water body like the Hudson River?

Start this module using the power point presentation, which will encourage students to begin asking questions and looking for answers. Students will learn the importance of invasive species and how they have changed the Hudson River, possibly forever. This module includes a more in-depth investigation of three species: zebra mussels, water chestnut, and common reed.  As students will discover, all of these introduced species have changed the ecosystem around us, and depending on your point of view, they are either a welcome addition or a serious problem.  A research report offers a way for students to explore other local invasive species.