Classroom Resources  
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.

1
Level 1 Reading Passage
Grades: 3-5Lexile Level: 400-500L
Preview
2
Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 800L-900L
Preview
3
Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1000-1200L
Preview
Share:

More Like This

Student Article
The Poop-Propelled "Headless Chicken Monster" of the Deep Sea

The article "The Poop-Propelled "Headless Chicken Monster" of the Deep Sea" from BBC's Science Focus explores the Enypniastes eximia, a bizarre deep-sea sea cucumber. This transparent, glowing creature feeds on marine snow and can shed its skin to evade predators, playing a crucial role in deep-sea ecosystems.

Student Article
Hummingbirds: Tiny Birds With Big Abilities

The article "Hummingbirds: Tiny Birds With Big Abilities" from BBC's Discover Wildlife is a detailed guide to the world of hummingbirds. It explores their unique flight skills, diet, habitats, and how their fast metabolism drives their daily routines. With over 350 species, these birds face threats from predators and habitat loss, but they continue to amaze scientists and birdwatchers alike.

Student Article
Komodo Dragons: Nature’s Giant Venomous Predators

The article "Komodo Dragons: Nature’s Giant Venomous Predators" from BBC's Discover Wildlife delves into the biology and ecology of the world's largest lizard. It covers their impressive size, unique venomous bite, dietary habits, reproductive strategies, and the threats leading to their endangered status, including habitat loss and climate change.

Student Article
Mauritius: How Sustainable Tourism Is Reviving Its Endangered Wildlife

The article "Mauritius: How Sustainable Tourism Is Reviving Its Endangered Wildlife" from BBC's Discover Wildlife explores how luxury tourism is helping the island of Mauritius restore its devastated biodiversity. Through sustainable practices and conservation efforts, the tourism industry is playing a crucial role in supporting rewilding projects, combating invasive species, and contributing to reforestation, with positive results for local wildlife like the Mauritian kestrel and endemic plants.