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Macroinvertebrate
Count
Stream:
__________________________________________________ Date: ______________
Data Analysts: ________________________________________________________________
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Macroinvertebrate Challenge
Step 1: Macroinvertebrate Count 1. Working with a partner, turn the rocks of your waterway over. Using the identification keys, identify the macroinvertebrates you find. 2. Count each macroinvertebrate as you find them. Use tally marks under the types found to keep track. Place the overturned rocks in the baggie provided as you finish with them. Not all rocks with have macroinvertebrates just like in real life. 3. Add up your tally marks and write the total in the small boxes for each macroinvertebrate. 4. Add up the small boxes and write the total for each category in the larger boxes below. 5. Roll up your waterway and hand the baggie and waterway to the teacher. Step 2: Map and Graph 1. Decide whether you want to create a bar graph or pie graph. 2. Get a map and paper (graph paper for bar graph, white paper for pie graph). 3. Highlight your waterway’s name and the waterway itself on the map. 4. Graph your results for the categories sensitive, somewhat-sensitive and tolerant. Make sure your bar or pie graph is clearly labeled, has a title, and looks nice. 5. Glue your completed map and graph to a poster. Enrichment: Step 3: Biotic Index 1. Write the total number of each macroinvertebrate you counted. 2. Total the number column and write the answer at the bottom of the column. 3. Multiply the type by the tolerance level. 4. Write the answer in the total column. 5. Add the total column and write the answer at the bottom of the column. 6. Divide the total number by the rated tolerance. 7. Note the impact level of your waterway and attach the worksheet to your poster. Return to Challenge |