There are about 600 species of chironomid midges in Britain. They can be found in all types of freshwater ecosystems, where they are often the most abundant insects.
They are also sensitive indicators of environmental change and respond to a wide range of environmental perturbations including eutrophication, acidification, heavy metal pollution and climate change. Chironomid larval head capsules are also well preserved in lake sediments and can be used to make quantitative reconstructions of palaeoenvironmental change. The larval stage, however, has an unjustified reputation of being difficult to identify. For this reason, in routine biodiversity assessments and environmental impact assessments, identification of chironomid larvae is often not taken beyond family level. As a result, information on an important element of freshwater biodiversity and a key component of ecosystem functioning is lost.
This course will comprise a short lecture on chironomid biology, ecology, morphology and taxonomy followed by a tutored practical on preparation of chironomid samples for microscopical examination and guidance on identification of the larval stage of British and European species using reference slides and identification guides. Course participants will also be encouraged to bring their own chironomid samples and slides for the identification of difficult taxa.
Tutor
Steve Brooks has research interests in freshwater insect ecology and taxonomy and environmental change. His research at the Natural History Museum, London, is currently focused on Chironomidae where he has pioneered their use as palaeoecological indicators.
Cost
£220
early bird rate £205
FBA member £195
Programme
The course programme can be found on the FBA website