Swamp Biome - The Everglades

Explore the Everglades as a case study of a swamp biome and discover the characteristics unique to this ecosystem. By observing the wet, marshy, waterlogged landscape as a transition between water and land, you will appreciate the nature of the biome as a habitat to many animals and plants, as well as the impact the draining and clearing of the Everglades can have on the balance of the ecosystem and the survival of the organisms that live there. Discover how invasive species and human development have impacted biodiversity in the Everglades.

# Learning objectives

1: Describe the characteristics of a swamp{.info}

2: Evaluate the Everglades as a case study of a swamp{.info}

3: Explain the effect of invasive species and humans on the Everglades{.info}

# The Everglades as a Biome{.objective .objective1}

An overview of a swamp will be provided, outlining the specific characteristics of it as a transition between land and water as a biome. The Florida Everglades is used as a case study. Flooded by nearby oceans or rivers during high rainfall, swamps can also experience low water levels exposing a lot of the land. Plants that grow there are adapted to changing types of soil and an ever-changing level of water despite being frequently waterlogged.

Students should explore the swamp and observe the characteristics of the biome. They should identify and describe their observations.

# The Wildlife{.objective .objective2}

The Everglades is home to diverse species of animals and plants, examples of these will be described. Each make the Everglades their home due to the dense habitat it provides for them to survive. Shelter, water, food, and a stable climate is essential. However, what most have in common is that fact they were once, or continue to be, endangered due to human activity.

Students are asked to use the information provided to identify the wildlife in the scene. They should describe how they came to their conclusion.

# People, Threats and Conservation{.objective .objective3}

The Florida Everglades have become a popular area for human activity. Over the last two hundred years, humans have used the area to build houses, transport resources in and out, and develop leisure complexes for tourists. This has come at a cost. Draining and clearing the swamp in specific locations has disrupted the habitat. Human activity has introduced invasive species of plants, animals, and other organisms; causing the native species to experience greater competition, increased disease and displacement. As such, their population has been put under pressure. Conservation policies protecting the Everglades have been established to help restore the ecosystem, prevent invasions and monitor invasive species, and maintain a critical ecological balance between fresh and saltwater necessary for healthy estuaries.

Students should observe and discuss how human activity has changed the area.

Teacher Resources

### Download Teacher Notes

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### Student Quiz Answers Document

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### Download Student Quiz Document

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