Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Monitoring |
|
Importance
Macroinvertebrates play key ecological roles in aquatic ecosystems. They are an important food source for fish, amphibians, and birds, and are consumers of algae, leaves, and other macroinvertebrates. In addition to their ties to the biotic environment, macroinvertebrates are also sensitive
to chemical changes in the water and physical habitat
surrounding them. Monitoring the physical habitat of aquatic macroinvertebrates provides clues about what might be happening in the ecosystem to affect macroinvertebrate
populations. |
Measuring flow and collecting aquatic macro-invertebrates on La Verkin Creek, Zion National Park. |
|
Current Status of Protocol
Although aquatic macroinvertebrates were identified as a high-priority vital sign in the NCPN’s Phase III Monitoring Plan, the development of this protocol is currently postponed. At a programmatic review of the network in January 2008, it was determined that the NCPN needed to focus its efforts on developing and implementing 10 other protocols across 16 network parks for the near future. At this time, we do not anticipate beginning development of the aquatic macroinvertebrates protocol until at least 2013, when the network’s next program review is scheduled to occur. At that time, the NCPN will examine all protocols and determine if there are efficiencies in other protocols that will allow us to initiate the development of this protocol.
For more detailed information, see the In-depth Information box below.
|
 
Mayfly larvae (left) and adult (right).
| Network park units where aquatic macroinvertebrates will be monitored |
| Arches NP |
Curecanti NRA |
| Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP |
Dinosaur NM |
| Canyonlands NP |
Natural Bridges NM |
| Capitol Reef NP |
Zion NP |
NP = National Park; NM = National Monument; NRA = National Recreation Area |
|
In-depth Information:
Monitoring Brief: |
|
Monitoring Protocol: |
In development |
Contact: |
Dustin Perkins, dustin_w_perkins@nps.gov |
|
»