Biotic Indices of Stream Macroinvertebrates for Fun and (Educational) Profit

 

Joy Perry

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2005, Volume 26

Abstract

Water quality monitoring activities can support student inquiry into ecological concepts and pollution issues, as well as offer insight into integrating field and lab work. This exercise provides students with practice in identification (to order or family level) of stream macroinvertebrates that they’ve previously collected. Provided information indicates water pollution tolerance of the various taxa. Students use the data to calculate several different biotic indices for the macroinvertebrates; these are compared to express overall stream water quality. Ideas for possible extensions of this activity are presented.

Keywords:  water quality, biotic index, macroinvertebrate

Bowling Green State University, Ohio (2004)