Evelyn Paris _ Benthic Macroinvertebrates

Incomplete Metamorphosis

A type of metamorphosis where insects undergo three life stages: egg, nymph, and adult.

Complete Metamorphosis

A type of metamorphosis where insects undergo four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

Plecopteran

Insect order that includes stoneflies, which are sensitive indicators of water quality.

Ephemeroptera

Also known as mayflies, which are sensitive to pollution and important for ecosystem health.

Trichoptera

Insect order that includes caddisflies, notable for their diversity and sensitivity.

Lepidoptera

Insect order that includes butterflies and moths, generally sensitive to environmental changes.

Pollution Tolerant Organisms

Species that can survive in contaminated environments, such as midgeflies and aquatic worms.

Glochidia

The larval stage of freshwater mussels that require fish hosts for development.

Isopods

Aquatic crustaceans that are often found in freshwater ecosystems.

Amphipod

Small, shrimp-like crustaceans that are indicators of water quality.

Riffle Beetles

Aquatic insects found in tough environments; important bioindicators.

Sensitivity Scale (01, 02, 03)

Scale used to assess the tolerance levels of aquatic organisms to pollution.