Estuaries and Their Inhabitants

This activity focuses on a special environment that is called an estuary. Since we do not live very close to an ocean, you may or may not know what this is. Before you start this activity, please go to this site and read about these special places. After you have read the information on estuaries, think about and answer the questions given below.

1) Name the different types of habitats that are contained within an estuary. When you list the habitat, include names of organisms that live in that particular area. This could be a plant, animal or other type of living or nonliving thing. Try and focus on how these organisms are interconnected and need each other to survive and remain healthy. If you see a very important connection, list that as well.

2) Compare and contrast the benefits of estuaries to humans as compared to those of the world and its creatures. Come up with at least 4 reasons that estuaries are important to humans and the planet. Then, list 4 consequences that you think would arise if estuaries around the world suddenly ceased to exist. Would there be pros and cons?

3) List one special animal that lives on the bottom of an estuary and contributes significantly to human medical research. What is its biological and scientific name, its closest relative, its favorite meal and mating time span? Be able to describe where its eyes are located, how many appendages it has and how old we think it is.

4) After reading the information and answering the other questions, think about estuaries and if you think they are worth saving. Why do you feel this way? What are some small things that people your age can do to save estuaries?

All answers should be written or typed and ready to turn in next week. If you have any questions or are confused by anything in this assignment, bring them to class and we will review the information so that everyone can understand the assignment better!