Observe the differences between jewel weevils. Drag the mimics to match them to their models.

Models

Mimics

Play Again

How is each model and its mimic the same and different?

07/06/2024 23:45:20

Marissa Cuevas Flores worried about water pollution. She decided to do something about it.

As told to Simone T. Ribke

Before you read

Our Changing Planet

Human Impact on Earth

As you read, think about how people are working to find new ways to protect Earth’s resources and environments.

07/06/2024 07:42:45

Marissa Cuevas Flores created the company microTERRA.

Q: Let’s talk about environmental scientists. Why did you choose to become one?

A: There are two kinds of environmental scientists. Both kinds study the environment to learn how it behaves. They also learn how people affect it. The first kind study and observe. The second kind try to fix the damage people do. I am the second kind. I try to fix the problems I see.

Q: What environmental problem did you want to solve?

A: Water pollution. Most of our freshwater is used for farming. But many farms use chemicals to cut down on weeds and pests. Water runoff from these farms can cause pollution. This wastewater can cause dead zones.

FAST FACT:
Each year, millions of tons of chemicals are used worldwide on our crops. Some of it gets washed into our waterways.

Q: What is a dead zone?

A: A dead zone is an area in a river, lake, or ocean that has low oxygen levels. Living things need oxygen. So, few things can live in these places. One thing that can are microalgae. They give off oxygen. They take in chemicals from wastewater.