Biological Interactions Activity Instructions

Instructions: Use the steps below to help guide you through the activity. You will submit your letter detailing your plan to control the python population in this ecosystem for grading. You will also post a copy of your letter in the 02.01 Biological Interactions discussion.
Introduction

In nature, we may find a predator introduced into an ecosystem that is not normally found there. An example of this is the Burmese python. Burmese pythons are originally found in Southeast Asia. They are currently found them in the Everglades National Park Swamp in Florida. The addition of Burmese pythons has upset the balance of the interactions in the Everglade ecosystem. The pythons are consuming prey at an alarming rate and causing increased competition for resources. They are also rapidly reproducing, making it difficult to control their population numbers. Their population is getting so high that the pythons are starting to overflow into neighborhoods surrounding the Everglades National Park area. This is creating an environmental problem that we need to solve.

Research

Read the Python and Impact of Invasive Alien Species articles located on the lesson page to begin your research on the Burmese python invasion in the Everglades National Park ecosystem and how the Burmese pythons are impacting the other organisms that live there.

You may also complete research on your own using newspapers, magazines, or online resources. Be sure to use credible scientific sources.

Data and Analysis

Next, you will analyze the current methods being used to control the Burmese python population and determine which method you believe to be the most effective. You may also create your own method, as long as it is supported by scientific research.
Current Methods for Controlling the Burmese Python Population
Method for Burmese python control Estimated cost to the Everglades National Park per year Predicted effectiveness Impact on other species
Capture and relocate $1,000,000 20 percent decrease Low—few to no other animals harmed
Open a hunting season to destroy pythons $250,000 for rewards and advertising 10 percent decrease Medium—few to no other animals harmed; may pose risk to hunters
Search and destroy nesting sites and eggs $950,000 30 percent decrease Medium—other animals' nesting sites may accidentally be destroyed
Introduce a new predator that feeds on pythons $5,000,000 50 percent decrease High—new predator may eat other animals and/or create additional environmental issues

Letter

Using your research and data, you will write a three-paragraph letter to the park ranger detailing your findings.

Be sure to include the following in your letter:

How is the Burmese python impacting the Everglades ecosystem?
Why is it important to control the Burmese python population in Everglades National Park?
Based on your research, what method of controlling the python population do you believe would be most effective? Create a plan based on your chosen method.

Submit your letter for grading.

Post a copy of your your letter in the 02.01 Biological Interactions discussion. If you have difficulty locating the discussion, contact your instructor for assistance.