Riverflies: The Canary of Our Rivers

Riverflies: The Canary of Our Rivers Trine Bregstein 18 Sep 2023 Riverflies, along with other freshwater invertebrates, are at the heart of the freshwater ecosystem and are a vital link in the aquatic food chain. Their common characteristics of limited mobility, relatively long life cycle, presence throughout the year and specific tolerances to changes in environmental conditions make them good biotic indicators of water quality and useful indicators of change. The Riverfly Partnership has developed the Riverfly Monitoring Initiative to enable citizen scientists to assess and monitor the health of rivers in their communities. Anglers, conservationists, and concerned community groups can act as guardians of the river by using the standardized monitoring technique developed by the Riverfly Partnership, in effect becoming an early warning system detecting disturbances in river water quality and raising the alarm, so that relevant statutory bodies can investigate further. Data collected by monitors is freely available to all and has been used to successfully prosecute polluters, showing the power of citizen science. The Freshwater Biological Association provides an overview of the methodology, sharing the progress of the project and what’s in store for the future. Case studies are discussed that highlight the amazing work of the volunteer monitors and how you can get involved. Check out the live Q&A and further info links for this talk here: Link coming soon... Check out FREE upcoming entoLIVE webinars: entoLIVE is delivered by the Biological Recording Company and sponsored by the British Entomological & Natural History Society, , the Field Studies Council and the Royal Entomological Society. - Find out more about the British Entomological & Natural History Society: - Learn more about the Nurturing Nature project: - Check out the latest jobs, volunteering opportunities, courses and events on environmentjob: - Check out the Adult caddis fly guide and more from the Field Studies Council: - Find out more about the Royal Entomological Society: