Stream Ecology and Water Quality Field Test Methods

 

North, G.

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2010, Volume 31

Abstract

Benthic macroinvertebrates are important indicators of water quality of streams and rivers. Macroinvertebrates commonly found in Delaware’s streams include insects, clams, mussels, snails, worms, grass shrimp, amphipods, crayfish, and crabs. In Delaware streams there are thousands of different macroinvertebrate species, each with its own unique requirements for survival. Basic visual, physical, and chemical data are valuable for a more complete picture of the water quality. This field study will focus on collecting visual, chemical, and biological data in the field at a local piedmont stream. Participants will then learn to interpret these data to determine the water quality. Teaching students outside offers the benefit of real world experiences, appealing to many different learning styles and heightened interest due to the always changing natural environment. The unique aspects of teaching a lab in the field will be highlighted.

Keywords:  water quality, stream ecology, Aquatic Habitat, Macroinvertebrates, Pollution Sensitivity

University of Delaware (2009)