Identifying Aquatic Invertebrates to Family Level; Tricks, Tips and Sorting a Kick Sample

Come and learn how to identify aquatic invertebrates to family level and how this can be used to assess the water quality of rivers and lakes through widely available indices. We will start by looking at May, Caddis and Stoneflies followed by Molluscs and Crustaceans, and then Beetles (adult and larva) and Diptera larvae in the afternoon. You will then get the chance to sort a kick sample and identify the different invertebrates and score them for your hypothetical river and how this can inform us about its condition. All abilities are welcome, there will be mixed difficulties of invertebrates to identify and space for people who may want to broaden their skills but can identify certain families already, but the workshop is generally aimed at beginner level participants. You can email in advance for certain invertebrates from the groups mentioned to be covered if required.

Our tutor, Arron Watson, is an entomologist and conservationist who loves to share his passion for aquatic invertebrates. He works as a Monitoring Officer for the Environment Agency using aquatic invertebrates to classify waterbodies. In his spare time he is also a volunteer and Northern England representative for the Riverfly Partnership, a citizen science programme which monitors aquatic invertebrates alerting regulators when rivers may be receiving organic pollution.

Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided but participants should bring a packed lunch or use World Museum cafe.

Adults only (18+)

Access: There are lifts between each of the floors and assistance dogs are permitted.