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Plants and Animals

Michigan's lakes and streams are home to a wide variety of fish, plants, aquatic insects, zooplankton and more. Learn about them from the MSU Extension Center for Lakes and Streams.

Seasonal magic under the water

Published on February 21, 2023
Compared to the abundant wildlife we see during the warm summer months, it’s easy to assume that life becomes “frozen” once the temperature drops; however, lake ecosystems are very much still active during the winter.
What makes skunks such scent-sensational neighbors?

Published on March 5, 2024
The MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife is asking the public to report sightings of the striped skunk, an overlooked and under-studied member of the animal kingdom.
Emerging from the deep

Published on April 21, 2023
Lakes are nurseries for a fascinating variety of insects; did you know that many insects – including dragonflies, mayflies, and mosquitoes – spend the first stages of their lives underwater?
This holiday season, give the gift of fish and wildlife habitat

Published on December 20, 2024
Learn more about what to do with your Christmas tree after the holidays.
Freshwater mussels of Michigan

Published on September 9, 2022
Native clams live long and fascinating lives in our lakes and rivers.
A look below the ice at fish behavior

Published on February 1, 2022
Learn more about lake ecology with Michigan State University Extension’s Introduction to Lakes Online course.
What's that bug: Identifying the praying mantids of Michigan

Published on November 17, 2022
Learn more about the two species of praying mantis found in Michigan and when you can easily spot them.
Preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species in Michigan through retailer education

Published on August 29, 2025
Learn more about the Reduce Invasive Pet and Plant Escapes (RIPPLE) program, a partnership between MSU Extension and the Michigan Departments of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy; Natural Resources; and Agriculture and Rural Development.
Freshwater friends: Who’s under that shell

Published on May 16, 2023
Michigan’s lakes, streams, and wetlands are home to ten different species of turtles that are frequently spotted in the spring basking and nesting.
Why do we care about Chara?

Published on November 4, 2025
Learn more about the importance of Michigan’s underwater understory.