Invertebrates

 

 

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Fresh Water Ecology Types of Water Water Quaility Tests Hydrologic Cycle River Classification
Water Chemistry Invertebrates Other Tests

One way to determine how much pollution is in a body of water is by sampling the invertebrates found there. Different invertebrate specious are sensitive, semi-sensitive, or tolerant to pollution. If you find mostly sensitive invertebrates, the water is low in pollution. If you find mostly tolerant invertebrates and no sensitive invertebrates then the water is very high in pollution. Listed below are common invertebrates and how sensitive they are to pollution.

 

Sensitive

Semi-Sensitive

Tolerant

Dobsonfly larva
(hellgrammite)
Dragonfly nymph Black fly larva
Caddisfly larva Damselfly nymph Midge larvae
Stonefly nymph Crayfish Aquatic worms
Mayfly nymph Beetle larva Leeches
Water penny
(beetle larva)
Crane fly larva Snails
(left foot)
Snails
(right foot)
Scud  
  Aquatic sowbug  
  Freshwater clams  

 

Fresh Water Ecology Types of Water Water Quaility Tests Hydrologic Cycle River Classification
Water Chemistry Invertebrates Other Tests