Third graders at St. James Elementary School in the Smithtown Central School District learned about ecosystems and marine life during a visit from Alexandra Stevens, marine educator, Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, on Feb 11.
District observed and touched different crabs during a visit from Cornell University
Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County on Feb 11.
The program – “What are you and where did you come from?” – taught the students about invasive, native and non-native species both on land and water. The students learned how humans can affect the natural ecosystem and how their impact can ultimately disrupt the entire food chain.
Focusing on the species of marine life on Long Island, the students learned about some of the different crabs that are currently living in the waters. The Asian shore crab, an invasive species, has taken over the shores because it is more aggressive than the native mud crabs. Students had a chance to observe the two different types of crab and touch a native spider crab.
Photos courtesy of Smithtown Central School District