Become a guardian of the Great Lakes by participating in a mysterious snail collection project.
Are you passionate about the Great Lakes and want to support scientific research aimed at conserving these waters? There’s an opportunity for you! Our newly designed webpage is a portal to support important research on the enigmatic snails of the Great Lakes region.
Dive into participatory science
At the Great Lakes Aquatic Non-Native Species Information System (GLANSIS), we believe groundbreaking research is successful through community engagement. Our latest initiative is a participatory project to help scientists collect, record, and ship the enigmatic snails Cipangopaludina chinensis and Cipangopaludina japonica to support global research in collaboration with George Mason University. We are calling on scientists from all over the world. These invasive species can have ecological impacts on the Great Lakes. This is your chance to contribute to meaningful environmental science while exploring the beauty of these oceans.
Why your participation matters
A mysterious snail invasion of the Great Lakes is causing concern among ecological researchers. These snails can alter the food web, compete with native species, and introduce parasites. Understanding their distribution, abundance, and impact is essential to developing strategies to protect lakes. George Mason University researchers plan to use the latest genetic techniques to determine what species each mysterious snail is and identify the parasite it hosts. Your active participation will help us collect the data we need to effectively monitor and manage this species.
structure
Participating is easy and rewarding:
Visit the website. Go to the Contribute Mystery Snails landing page. LEARN AND EQUIP: Familiarize yourself with the mysterious snail through species profiles. Go exploring: Head to your local lake or stream and start looking for the mysterious snail. Check the location map to see where populations are recorded and where samples are needed. Collect and record: Collect snails carefully, photograph them, and note important details such as location, date, and environmental conditions. Aim to collect at least 30 adult snails from each independent body of water. Submitting Specimens: Please ship your snails according to the instructions in the “Shipping” section of our webpage. Each submission brings us closer to solving the mysteries of these invasive snails.
Benefits of participating
Hands-on learning: Gain practical experience through fieldwork and contribute to a deeper understanding of invasive species. Community Contribution: Join a network of concerned citizens and scientists working together toward common goals. Impactful Engagement: Your efforts directly help protect the ecological health of the Great Lakes, a vital resource for millions of people.
join the movement
Participatory science is more than just a hobby; it is a powerful tool for environmental management. By participating in our mysterious snail collection project, you will become a guardian of the Great Lakes. Please explore our species profile, dive into the fascinating world of snails, and make a measurable difference in protecting our precious water resources.
Whether you’re an experienced biologist, a curious student, or just a nature lover, your contribution is invaluable. Let’s unite our efforts to ensure the Great Lakes remain vibrant and prosperous for generations to come.
Visit the Contribute Mystery Snails landing page to begin your journey to participatory science. For inquiries or additional information, please contact GLANSIS at oar.glerl.glansis@noaa.gov or follow us at X. Let’s uncover the secrets of the Great Lakes together.
Michigan Sea Grant promotes economic growth and helps protect Michigan’s coastal, Great Lakes resources through education, research and advocacy. Michigan Sea Grant, a joint effort of the University of Michigan, Michigan State University and its MSU Extension, is part of the NOAA National Ocean Grants Network of 34 university-based programs.
This article was produced by Michigan Sea Grant under award NA22OAR4170084 from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration through the University of Michigan Trustees. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Department of Commerce, or the University of Michigan Board of Regents.
Was this article helpful?
Please tell me the reason. submit
