What are waterbugs?
Macroinvertebrates (waterbugs) are small animals without backbones that live in freshwater like creeks, rivers and ponds. They’re called “macro” because you can see them without a microscope. Common types include worms, snails, bugs, beetles, yabbies, and insect larvae or nymphs.
Waterbugs are an important part of healthy waterways. Their presence, numbers, and variety can tell us a lot about long-term water quality and environmental change, sometimes even more than regular water testing! Some species are very sensitive to pollution or salt, while others can survive in harsher conditions. So by looking at which bugs are found (or missing), we can learn how healthy the water is.
Most waterbugs hatch in summer and grow into adults by the next summer. They go through several life stages, and spring is a great time to sample them because they’re usually larger and easier to identify. Their numbers can also change with the seasons and weather. For example, heavy rain or dry conditions can affect water levels and which bugs are present.
Waterbugs live in different parts of a waterway. Two common areas are:
Riffles: these are shallow, rocky spots with fast-moving water. The water splashes and mixes with air, making it rich in oxygen. The rocks provide places for bugs to hide and find food. There is usually a variety of waterbugs in riffles.
Edges: these are the calmer areas along the sides of streams and ponds, often with plants and tree roots. Bugs that live here like places where they can hide, find food, and stay protected.
Watch the video clip below which explains what waterbugs are, where they live and why they are important!