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Student Article

American Crayfish Trapping Strategy Fails to Control Invasive Species

By: Mark Rowe
Originally Published in  Discover Wildlife

A recent study challenges the effectiveness of trapping American crayfish to protect native British species, suggesting it may worsen the issue and spread harmful pathogens.

The article "American Crayfish Trapping Strategy Fails to Control Invasive Species" from BBC's Discover Wildlife relates the results of a study that shows trapping invasive American crayfish is ineffective at controlling their population and may even harm native species. Researchers urge a shift in focus to biosecurity measures rather than trapping.
Student Article Info

BBC's Discover Wildlife brings you closer to nature with expert advice, conservation news, the best nature writing and stunning wildlife photography. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Freshwater animals that look like small lobsters called crayfish
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

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Grades: 3-5Lexile Level: 400-500L
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