CRAGs Rothbury WI and Rothbury CAN water quality groups were out on a fine morning in May, riverfly sampling with the Dr Thomlinson C of E Middle School Biodiversity Group. The event marked the launch of CRAG’s riverfly kick sampling project, to collect data on riverfly numbers at different sites along the Coquet.
Riverfly kick sampling is a technique that provides a measure of the river’s health by recording numbers of riverfly over time to track any changes. Along with other freshwater invertebrates, riverfly are at the heart of the freshwater ecosystem and provide a vital link in the aquatic food chain. Their limited mobility, relatively long-life cycle, presence throughout the year, and specific tolerances to changes in environmental conditions make them good indicators of water quality.
We were delighted to be assisted by over 20 children from the local middle school biodiversity group, who walked down from the school in their wellies to learn about the importance of invertebrates to freshwater ecosystems, the kick testing method used to obtain a sample and the identification techniques required to tell your Caddisflies from your Mayflies. One of the conclusions of the morning was surely that it’s not as easy as it looks to identify different species, even with a useful ID chart to hand; especially as they don’t keep still! Luckily after all that activity there was some squash and homemade cake to fortify teachers and children for the walk back up the hill to school.
If anyone is interested in taking part in riverfly sampling or learning more about the projects CRAG is involved in on the Coquet please do contact us coquetriveractiongroup@outlook.com.
Photos: Left – Introduction to riverfly whilst disinfectant on boots dries; Right – Close examination needed!
Photo: Good kicking technique is essential to get a decent sample!
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