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.
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
