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Detroit Zoo Community Connect – Mudpuppy Mission

Mudpuppies are elusive freshwater salamanders found in the Detroit River and are key indicators of water quality. Learn how scientists use mudpuppy data from various metro Detroit sites to monitor ecosystem health and protect these important amphibians.

Mudpuppy

Not a puppy, but a salamander! Mudpuppies, a freshwater species that lives in our very own Detroit River, are of special concern in Michigan. Learn about “bioindication” and how mudpuppies are water quality testers. Discover how different “sites” around metro Detroit serve as habitats by collecting mudpuppy data. Explore why these hard-to-find amphibians are so important to our freshwater ecosystems.

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Key Concepts:

  • Bioindicator Species
  • Water Quality
  • Habitat Preservation

Grade(s):

  • 3rd – 5th

Duration:

  • 50 – 60 minutes

Skills:

  • Making observations
  • Collecting and analyzing data
  • Constructing scientific arguments based on evidence