Invertebrates Survey – What's in the River?

We’re continuing these very popular sessions once a month throughout 2024! We are looking for 6 people to help us monitor the invertebrates of the tidal River Lea. If you’re interested in taking part in these free sessions, please check the session times and email [email protected].

The presence or absence of certain freshwater invertebrates can tell a story of a water body’s health. Because some invertebrates are more sensitive to pollutants than others we can use them as “indicator species”. Assessing the types of invertebrates found indicates something about the health of the water body they have been found in. As the Lea is a tidal river it also contains brackish water so we will be developing a novel assessment of water quality based on the invertebrate community found here.

• Kick sampling in the river.
• Identification of invertebrate species.

• Training in aquatic invertebrate species identification.
• Experience in aquatic invertebrate sampling techniques.
• Confident canoers and kayakers to accompany volunteers on the water.
• Access to our Biodiversity Officer
• Access to and training in the use of a stereo microscope.
• All necessary equipment and any required PPE.

• An interest in biodiversity/ecology/entomology.
• Enthusiasm for the project & the objectives of Cody Dock.
• Dedication to the project and a commitment to regularly attend.
• Attention to detail and accurate identification & record keeping.

We’re looking for 6 people who can commit to coming to Cody Dock to conduct aquatic invertebrate surveys. Timings will be determined by the tides, but we anticipate that these sessions could run from 10:00 am to 17:00 pm.