Looking for something educational to do with the family out in nature? Head out to your local river and explore the places aquatic macroinvertebrates call home! 

The small insects that live in our waterways are called aquatic macroinvertebrates. Macro- meaning large enough that you don’t need a microscope to see them. Invertebrate- meaning they have no backbone and rely on their exoskeleton for support. These small critters are food for many species of fish, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. They can also be water quality indicators. See this Macroinvertebrate Identification Key (link to key with colored dots)  to find out which species are more sensitive to pollutants and which can survive in more harsh conditions. If you find some that are more sensitive to pollutants, that likely means it is a pretty healthy system. 

Most of these insects live on the bottom of shallow bodies of water- Check under rocks, in loose leaf litter, and in slow moving water to find them. Some skim on the top of the water, but you have to be quick to catch them! Take a look at this interactive key with detailed photos to see what you’re looking for before you head out!

Always be aware of where you are stepping and try not to disturb the ecosystem too much in your search. Always put all the organisms back where you found them when you’re done and respect your lands and waters by leaving everything as you found it.

Supplies you’ll need:

• Printed macroinvertebrate key
• Small net 
• Shallow bucket or container for viewing
• Tall rain boots or water shoes
• Magnifying glass