Benthic Macroinvertebrate Biomonitoring

Benthic macroinvertebrates, including the Ephemeroptera (mayflies), Plecoptera (stoneflies), and Trichoptera (caddisflies) families, commonly known as the EPT families, are vital indicators of water quality and ecosystem integrity. Our surveys focus on these organisms, providing crucial insights into the ecological balance and environmental stressors affecting aquatic habitats.

Our team focuses on EPT Indexing, but have experience identifying and working with a host of other benthic macroinvertebrate families so please don’t hesitate to ask about including non-EPT macroinvertebrates. Services include:

Sampling: We use standardized methods to collect benthic macroinvertebrates from various substrates and flow conditions within a water body.

Identification: Our specialists meticulously identify the collected specimens to the family level, focusing on the EPT groups to gauge the water quality and ecological health.

Analysis: We analyze the data to determine the EPT index, which reflects the water body's quality and the health of its aquatic life.

Applications and Impact

Our EPT indexes serve as a cornerstone for biomonitoring programs, supporting:

Water Quality Assessment: By tracking the diversity and abundance of EPT taxa, we provide accurate assessments of water quality over time.

Pollution Detection: Our surveys can pinpoint pollution sources and the extent of their impact on aquatic ecosystems.

Habitat Restoration: The data from our surveys inform habitat restoration efforts, guiding actions to improve water quality and habitat conditions for all aquatic life.

Regulatory Compliance: Our findings assist in meeting environmental regulations and standards, ensuring the protection and sustainability of water resources.